Clinic with Chad Cunningham – Where Details Make the Difference

Some weekends are quiet – and precisely for that reason, deeply meaningful. They come without big stages, packed arenas, or podium finishes. And yet, by the end, you can feel that something has changed. That is exactly how this weekend felt to me.

My first clinic with Chad Cunningham, known for developing riders from junior equitation through to FEI-level performance, was far more than just a training session. It was an intense insight into another way of working – precise, honest, and with a very clear focus on details, responsibility, and quality in riding. Chad is one of South Africa’s most prestigious show jumping trainers and brings over 25 years of experience as both a rider and a coach. Working with someone who is internationally shaped, yet able to focus so clearly on every detail in the present moment, made this experience particularly special for me.

Clinic Chad Cunningham

Training at a New Level

From the very first session, it was clear that this weekend would be demanding. Chad attaches great importance on structure, rhythm, and conscious decision-making – not only in the course, but in every single moment in between. His training philosophy is strongly rooted in the fundamentals. The focus was not on jumping high, but on riding correctly, thoughtfully, and consistently.

I was particularly impressed by how consistently he paid attention to seat, balance, and riding aids. Chad works on the principle that only a correctly positioned rider can truly do justice to their horse – both physically and mentally.

It felt that every detail mattered: the lines, the timing, my own focus, and the way I took responsibility for my horse. The training was intense, sometimes challenging, but that is exactly what made it so valuable. I learned an incredible amount and was able to put it into practice right away – a feeling that you rarely experience as a rider.

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Recognition and Trust

What touched me most was Chad’s response to my work. From the very beginning, his feedback was clear and honest, yet at the same time incredibly open and highly motivating. To feel that my way of riding, my feel for the horses, and my current level of training were not only seen, but genuinely recognized, means a lot to me.

During the clinic, there was a moment I won’t forget anytime soon: Chad expressed his wish to include me in his Chambourne Team. With this team, he travels worldwide to the Global Champions Tour – including stops in Dubai, Madrid, Mexico, Miami, Valkenswaard, and other top international venues. Nothing has been decided or confirmed, but even having this perspective expressed was incredibly special. The idea alone is a huge honour and a powerful source of motivation. It leaves me excited to see where continued hard work, refining, and development might lead.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

This weekend clearly showed me how valuable honest feedback, clear structure, and consistent work on the fundamentals truly are. It is exactly these details that make the difference in the long run – in sport as well as in personal development. Development often happens when you are willing to listen, take responsibility, and refine even the smallest details.

My coaching with Chad Cunningham will continue on a regular basis, giving me the opportunity to work consistently on myself and my horses. I am especially looking forward to seeing him in mid-April in Spain at the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour (MET), where we will continue with an intensive three-day coaching programme.

I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me, for the quality of this training weekend, and for everyone around me who supports me on this journey.

This experience has opened up new perspectives – both sports-related and personal – and I am excited to continuing my work from here.