Ingrid Klimke

Career 

Ingrid Klimke, born April 1, 1968 in Münster, Germany, is a renowned German rider who has enjoyed success in both dressage and eventing. She comes from a prominent equestrian family; her father was the legendary Olympic champion and dressage rider Dr. Reiner Klimke, who was considered one of the most important personalities in equestrian sport even during his lifetime. From an early age, Ingrid Klimke was surrounded by horses and developed a deep love and enthusiasm for equestrian sports. She began her riding career at an early age and took part in her first competitions. With exceptional talent and dedication, she quickly drew attention to herself. Through her persistent work and tireless training, she earned a place at the top of the equestrian world throughout her career and is now celebrated as one of the most successful riders of her generation.

She also trained as a banker and holds a master's degree in equine management. Did you already know? Ingrid Klimke actually wanted to become a primary school teacher, but it was difficult to combine her school routine with riding and competing. 

1.1 Engagement in Equestrian Sports

Ingrid Klimke is involved in various functions and positions for the equestrian sport and the further development of the horse industry. Here is some information about her activities:

• Since 2013, she has acted as Solidarity Ambassador for the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). In this important position, she is actively involved in promoting and expanding equestrian sport at an international level.
• In addition to her association and federation duties, she served as a lecturer in equine physiotherapy at the German Institute of Equine Osteopathy (DIPO). She imparted her expertise and experience in equine health and rehabilitation to aspiring equine physiotherapists.
• Ingrid Klimke was also involved in the German Equestrian Federation's "Learning to Ride" seminar series. Here she brought her expertise and teaching skills to help riders of all levels improve their skills and build a harmonious connection with their horses.
• As a member of the board of the Westphalian Horse Museum, Ingrid Klimke is committed to protecting and promoting the cultural heritage of equestrian sports. The museum is dedicated to the history of equestrian sport and provides knowledge and insights into the development of this fascinating discipline.
• Since 2021, Ingrid Klimke has held the office of President of the European Equestrian Business Association (EEBA). This organization is dedicated to promoting and supporting businesses and professionals in the equestrian industry at the European level. In her position, she works to represent the interests and concerns of the industry and to promote exchange and cooperation within the European equestrian community.

Ingrid Klimke's diverse involvement and activities in various organizations demonstrate her high level of commitment to equestrian sports, her willingness to share her knowledge, and her importance as a leader within the equine industry.

Ingrid Klimke's Successful Horses

In the course of her impressive career, Ingrid Klimke has worked with a number of exceptional horses that accompanied her on her way to numerous successes. One of her most famous horses was "Butts Abraxxas", a Hanoverian gelding who was considered absolutely reliable and versatile. With him she developed a close bond and achieved numerous significant victories. The highlights of their collaboration include winning the team gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and several victories in international competitions.

In addition, Ingrid Klimke worked with other remarkable horses, including "Hale Bob", "FRH Escada JS" and "SAP Hale Bob OLD". With them she celebrated great successes in eventing and established herself as one of the best riders in this discipline. The partnerships are characterized by trust, respect and an extraordinary harmony, which leads to remarkable successes.

Sporting Successes

Ingrid Klimke can look back on an impressive list of sporting successes that have made her a true legend of equestrian sport. She has won numerous national and international titles in both dressage and eventing. Since 2010, she has already won 77 international competitions in eventing. Her performances at the highest level have catapulted her to the Olympus of equestrian sport.

In eventing, Ingrid Klimke was part of the German national team that took first place several times at the World and European Championships. Her extraordinary skill, tactical understanding and unwavering determination helped her establish herself as a top rider in this demanding discipline. She impressed the equestrian world with her ability to excel in dressage competitions as well as cross-country and show jumping.

In dressage, Ingrid Klimke also achieved remarkable success. She won national titles and was regularly part of the German dressage team in international competitions. Her elegant riding style, her fine feeling for the horses and her ability to create a harmonious connection between rider and horse made her an outstanding dressage rider.

Sporting Successes 2023

In 2023, Ingrid Klimke can already claim some sporting successes for herself:

• 1st place: Young Horse Tour dressage test class S*** Intermed.A & II. with First Class 92 in Balve
• 1st place: Dressage test class S*** Intermed. II with SAP Feuertänzer in Wiesbaden
• 1st place: dressage test class S*** youngsters Grand Prix with SAP Feuertänzer in Wiesbaden
• 1st place: Strzegrom CCI3*-S International with SAP Asha P

and many other placings such as 4th place at the FEI Dressage World Cup™ in Omaha or placings on the winners' podium in Münster, Stuttgart, London, Amsterdam, Ankum or at the German Championships in Balve. We are excited to see what other sporting successes we can celebrate with Ingrid Klimke this year. 

Awards

Ingrid Klimke has received numerous awards and honors recognizing her impressive career and dedication to equestrian sports. Among her most notable awards are:

• International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Best Athlete Award in 2019 and 2020.
• Flag bearer for Germany at the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Tryon, North Carolina, USA. 
• Eventing Rider of the Year 2018, awarded by equestrian news magazine Noelle Floyd.
• Sportswoman of the Year 2018 in Münster, Germany, for the eleventh time. 
• Order of Merit of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia in 2016 for her outstanding equestrian and charitable achievements.
• Silver Laurel Leaf in 2005, 2008, 2012 and 2016 in recognition of their sporting achievements. 
• Otto Lorke Award of the German Olympic Committee for Equestrianism in 2013. 
• Sportswoman of the Year 2013, chosen by the TV channel Sport 1

Interesting Facts About Ingrid Klimke

Ingrid Klimke is not only an outstanding rider, but also a dedicated trainer and author. She enjoys sharing her extensive knowledge and valuable experience with other riders and is known for her inspiring training methods. Her seminars and books and provide valuable insights into her working methods and give riders of all levels valuable tips for a successful career in equestrian sports.

Despite her impressive success and dedication to equestrian sports, Ingrid Klimke has always stressed the importance of a balanced lifestyle. As a mother of two children, she proves that it is possible to combine a fulfilling family life with a successful equestrian career. She is a role model for many riders around the world who are inspired by her success and passion for the sport.

With her commitment to equestrian sport, her love of horses and her constant quest for excellence, Ingrid Klimke has had an impressive career. She has made a significant mark on the world of equestrian sport and will undoubtedly continue to be an inspirational figure for generations of riders to come. Ingrid Klimke's name will forever be remembered for her exceptional achievements and profound impact on equestrian sport.