Horse Riders

An exceptional moment in a horse rider's life

Training to become a professional horse rider at the Living Museum of the Horse remains an exceptional moment in one's life. The experience is unique, formative and enriching. The training at the museum is nothing short of extraordinary in its preparation of young riding instructors. What riders learn at the Grand Stables is unique, like nowhere else.

In order to wear the red tunic -the work uniform of the museum, applicants must have elementary knowledge of the art of dressage, an elegant figure and also a nice position on the horse, as one of their tasks is to take part in the shows. This however, is the only aspect of their daily routine which is visible to the public. They are in permanent contact with the horses.

Before being exhilarated by the applause of the public, the riders must learn how to live with the horses assigned to them. In the morning, they have to groom them, in the same way as the French Republican Guard, where each person is responsible for the well-being of their own horse. Then, after spending 12 hours in their boxes, horses are given their first warm-up exercises. The horses have two daily outings: a relaxing morning walk, and either an exercise session or a physical (and mental) preparation, usually carried out on the wonderful paths of the Chantilly forest.

Text by Pascal Renauldon, excerpted from: "The Living Museum of the Horse turns 20"