From February 20th to 22nd, 2026, the Palatinate Equestrian Federation (Pferdesportverband Pfalz e.V.) hosted the 6th Palatinate Training Conference at Altleiningen Castle, organized by Brigitte Seidler and her expert team. Under the motto “The Journey is the Destination,” trainers, riders, and horse enthusiasts from a wide range of disciplines came together to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and reflect on the future of responsible horse training. The castle’s historic setting provided not only a unique backdrop but also ample space for conversations, discussions, and new inspiration.
Among the speakers at this year’s conference was Anja Beran, who presented several sessions and generated considerable interest among the participants.
The conference opened with a panel discussion featuring Uta Gräf and Martin Plewa entitled “The Journey is the Destination – Which Path Leads to the Future of Competitive Equestrian Sport?” In a lively exchange, the three experts discussed current developments in equestrian sport and the role that sound, horse-friendly training plays in the future of competitive riding. The central question was how tradition, knowledge, and responsibility can be combined to ensure the long-term well-being of both horses and riders.
In her presentation, Anja Beran addressed a topic familiar to many trainers and riders from their daily practice: “Consistently from back to front – last to acquire form is the horse’s neck.” This well-known principle is frequently quoted, yet in reality, one often sees riders pulling on the reins simply to force the horse’s head into a specific position. Anja Beran vividly demonstrated why this approach is ineffective and why correct training must always originate from the hindquarters. If the horse is systematically worked from back to front, posture, balance and finally the shape of the neck develop quite naturally – but only as a result of correct gymnastic training, not as its starting point.
A particular highlight was a practical session in which Uta Gräf, in the saddle and with commentary from Anja Beran, presented horses under the motto “Sustainable Training of the Dressage Horse.” It became clear how important patience, systematic training, and a deep understanding of equine biomechanics are. The session offered participants the rare opportunity to experience two experienced trainers in direct and highly engaging conversation and to gain practical insights into their work.
The Burgtagung pursues a clear goal: to offer trainers a platform where they can exchange expertise, ask questions, and gain new perspectives. With around 110 member clubs, the Palatinate Equestrian Federation plays a vital role in ensuring the quality of training – because the trainers significantly influence the level of the clubs and thus also the well-being of the horses. Accordingly, the event’s concept is guided by the principle of “Learning together from the best.” Seminars, lectures, and workshops, each lasting 60 to 90 minutes, provide expert insights, while informal meeting spaces at the castle intentionally create room for conversations and in-depth discussions.
Thus, the Altleiningen Castle Conference will be remembered not only as a top-class professional development event, but above all as a place of open exchange and shared passion for responsible horse training – perfectly in line with this year’s motto: The journey is the destination.
