In September, I had the opportunity to view and photograph the last performance of the Tempel Lipizzans. As I entered Tempel Farms and the 600 acres of land it occupies, the view of the stables in the background is breathtaking as I drove along the beautiful flower box lined road that led to the arena.
During World War II Lipizzan horses and the Spanish Riding School were at great risk. The United States Army, under the command of General George S. Patton, an expert horseman, helped save Austria’s Lipizzan horses. In 1958 Tempel Farms brought several Lipizzan’s to the United States, preserving the legacy of these horses along with many of the traditional horse training methods and classical dressage at the farm for 65 years. Trainers/Riders: Bill Clements, Raul Roa Vadillo, Nadalyn Firenze, Lydia Knurek, Hannah Whiting, Janessa Peterson, Joy DeSantis
Esther Buonanno, Director of Tempel Lipizzans, Granddaughter of Tempel and Esther Smith, Founders A farewell at the last performance on Tempel Farms on September 3, 2023 Celebrating 65 year with Dancing through the Decades.
Lining up for the Parade of the Mares and Foals
Lipizzan Tradition parades the Mares with the Foals around the arena Buona Fortuna and Bellatrix | Ada and Andromeda | Greta and Gia Brigitta and Conversano VI Brigitta
It’s wonderful to see these frisky foals off lead and able to play and run free in the arena
Here comes trouble
Curious about the Austrian Flag
As they head out of the arena… it was off to the races!
An uncertain future… while each horse will be carefully placed with new owners, it was sad to think that these foals will not be able to continue frolic carefree on Tempel Farm’s hundreds of acres.
The Pas the Deux: The Dance of Two Conversano Garcia | Favory VII Garcia
Rider: Lydia Knurek
All Steps and Movements of the Classical School Maestoso Anita or Maestoso Alfaya II
Rider: Bill Clements
The subtle movements of the riders hands and leg aid in communication with the stallions.
Intent concentration with the rider’s cues
2019 Carriage
2019 Performance
The Airs Above the Ground | Work in Hand Capriole | Favory VI Bellanna II
2019 Courbette | Maestoso Batrina
The Airs Above the Ground | Work in Hand Levade | Favory IX Ivana
The Quadrille: Ballet of the White Stallions Conversano Barbara | Favory VIII Aurelia II-I | Pluto Gratia | Maestoso Batosta
2019 Performance of The Quadrille
Final Salute
After the performance, the pristine stables were opened to the audience providing the opportunity to view the stallions. It was for most of us, the only chance to be able to get close to these magnificent horses.
As you waited in line, the stable hallways are filled with historic photographs of performances over the years.
Rider: Janessa Peterson
The crowds filtered out and I packed up my camera gear the stable was silent. I took a moment to think about the remarkable history and legacy of the Tempel Lipizzans. One last time for a pet of the soft pink muzzle.
As I drove out of the winding rode I, like many are saddened by the end of the performances of the Lipizzans at Tempel Farm. The exhibition of the horses skills were captivating and the rider’s athleticism made classical dressage look effortless. I hope that all that was achieved at Tempel Farms to preserve the legacy of the Lipizzans does not become a lost art. With sincere gratitude to Tempel Farms for their stewardship and contributions to the Lipizzans and sharing their beloved horses with us for so many years.
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