COACHES' CORNER

WITH ZDENEK MUCHNA

HQ PONY had a quick catch up with top rider and coach Zdenek Muchna on his role as coach of Zara Pappalardo, this year’s SA Pony Rider Open Equitation Individual Champion.

HQP: Zden, could you tell us about how you began coaching, and the disciplines you coach?

Zden: I’ve been coaching for 15 years; my first pupil was Amy Crossley, who is still riding with me today. I teach equitation and showjumping and have pupils ranging from 10 years old to adults.

HQP: How did you prepare Zara for the equitation?

Zden: Zara’s equitation title win has been a three-year goal in the making. Two years ago, she won the Pony Rider Intermediate Equitation at SA Champs, then last year was second in the Pony Rider Open Equitation and achieved her goal this year by winning with fantastic scores, even getting some well-deserved 20s (out of 20). Zara has always been a very stylish rider, but has really honed her ability to ride her tests accurately and precisely, both on the flat and in the jumping.

HQP: What are your top tips for success in equitation?

Zden: My top five tips for success in equitation are:

1. Choose a suitable pony/horse.

2. Focus on the fundamentals of riding, i.e. correct position, good feel, rhythm etc, and do the basics well.

3. Have a good understanding of the equitation movements, and how they should be performed.

4. Practice planning your test at home around different jump equipment.

5. Where you plan your test on competition day is so important. You need to be aware of where the judges are, and plan accordingly. Take your time, be patient, and show off your strengths.

HQP: What were your thoughts on the Open Equitation classes at this year’s SA Youth Champs?

Zden: I thought the level of riding in the South African Equitation Champs was absolutely outstanding. It was so good to see how large the classes were, and how close the scores were. With so many of our young riders graduating so successfully from equitation into the top showjumping classes, the future of equitation looks bright.