Photo provided by Zsuzsu Illes
Growing up in India, the Middle East, and Europe, has given Zsuzsu an eclectically global perspective to horsemanship; solidifying her perspective that good horsemanship requires a multi-faceted approach whereby each horse benefits from the expertise of a group of different equine professionals. This philosophy guides her approach to saddle fitting and balance. Zsuzsu's experience of teaching, training as well as remaining a student herself led her to earn certifications with CHA and ARIA, earn USDF university credits and participate in many Charles de Kunffy Classical Riding and Instructor’s clinics. Zsuzsu’s excellence led her to be recommended by Charles de Kunffy as an instructor, trainer and clinician.
While managing her own boarding, training and lesson facility, Zsuzsu became interested in saddle fitting and began to learn this specialized skill which is both art and science. In addition to listening to the many riders and horses that she has helped over the years, Zsuzsu studied under Andy Sankey of Scotland who is a Certified Master Saddler in the Trade (the highest level achievable in the Society of Master Saddlers, Ltd. UK) and herself became an independent qualified and certified Master Saddle Fitting Consultant through a program recognized by Utrecht School of Veterinary Medicine (MSFC Saddle Fitters.)
LINKS
THE SADDLE AS AN ADAPTER
BY ZSUZSU ILLES What is the number one point to keep in mind when fitting a saddle to a horse and rider? The saddle must fit in motion. When the saddle works as an efficient adapter in motion it ... continue reading...
THE MYTH OF THE NARROW TWIST
BY ZSUZSU ILLES Over and over again I hear “I need a narrow twist.” So why do I repeatedly answer, ”Not necessarily so”? Because a saddle with a narrow twist may not necessarily be the ... continue reading...
