The prestigious Spanish Riding School of Vienna in Austria is changing its ways. The institution has broken tradition and accepted 2 female riders-in-training. This is a first in its history.
The Spanish Riding School of Vienna is well known world wide for its famous, white Lipizzaner stallions and their performances of airs above the ground. The school was founded in 1572 and up until now, only admitted and trained qualified male riders. It was time to adapt tradition to current times.
The 2 women that are making history are 21 year old Hannah Zeitlhofe from Austria and Sojourner Morrell, a 17 year old British national who grew up in Saratoga Springs, NY.
I'm all for traditions, but traditions need to keep up with the times. It's been long overdue for qualified women to be accepted into the Spanish Riding School. Positive news starts when strong, skilled women can compete and express their physical prowess.
Brigita - That is so interesting! I really love watching the Lipizanner stallions - Just beautiful! :)
Good for them, I had no idea that all the riders were male up until this point. I always wanted to go see the Lippizaners when I was in Vienna, but I think I was there off-season...
Debi:
I have always been a huge fan of the Spanish Ridng School and the Lipizzaner Stallions. Whenever the ones from Vienna tour this area, I ALWAYS go to see them. They are my favorite. :-)
Cary:
I highly recommend you go see them. They are so beautiful to watch. I suggest in seeing them the next time they tour your area. Unfortunately, they only tour once every 10 years. Keep an eye out for them. :-)
Brigita
Hi Brigita, Say it isn't so ! LOL High time they made the switch. Absolutely beautiful horses !
Bill:
They are absolutely beautiful! I can watch them any time.
Brigita
Is the Apocalypse closer than we think?!!!
Just kidding.
I think it's great to see another door open for women.
Craig:
I was in total shock when I heard about it. I never thought it would ever happen, but I'm glad it did. Another great opportunity for women. :-)
Brigita
I missed the show when them came to Aiken :( Very talented riders and horses. Glad to see they are changing with the times.
Kara:
Yes, they are very talented. No matter how many times I have seen them, I still enjoy watching them. I, too, am happy to see the change.
Brigita