Petra Sekerka’s White Horse Dressage in Woodside is a full-service barn offering comprehensive instruction in the European tradition for students of all levels from basic positioning and use of aids to in-hand work.  Petra brings her deep experience in renowned European riding schools and academies to her training. 

While in her native Czech Republic, Petra managed the National Kladruby Stud Farm, the first woman to do so in the stud farm’s 450+ year history. There, she worked with Dr. Norbert Zalis, the former director and renowned teacher of academic riding, who helped form her early approach to training.  Since then Petra has trained extensively with Egon von Neindorff protege Mrs. Melissa Simms, continuing the tradition of European academic dressage. She has also worked with Arthur Kottas from the Spanish Riding School, adding to her classical approach.

Petra has a systematic and compassionate approach to training horses. Her students appreciate her ability to articulate and make complex concepts of dressage accessible for amateurs and professionals alike.  Petra works to nurture a true partnership between horse and rider, with the goal of creating happy willing horses and knowledgeable compassionate riders, a partnership of total trust.

“Classical dressage, when practiced authentically, transcends mere technique. It’s a communion, an intricate dialogue between two sentient beings. This discipline isn’t about force; it’s about finesse. It’s about honoring the horse’s spirit, nurturing its physical prowess, and celebrating its very existence.”

We took a few minutes of Petra’s time to ask her 8 questions, to help members get to know her better.

What was your first experience with dressage?
When I was 12 we all rode jumpers, because that’s what we all did when we were kids. I remember there was one lady on a big chesnut that rode dressage, perhaps at the Prix St George level.  I would come in the evening every chance I could and watch her ride.  Dressage was not well known at the time but I just knew this was something so beautiful and special, and I wanted to learn.

What quality do you admire most in a horse?
A life spirit of kindness, eager to please.

What is your greatest strength as a rider?
Judgment of what a horse needs at a given moment.

If you were to change one thing about the Dressage world, what would it be?
More time on the lunge line developing an independent seat.

What’s something people might not know about you?
I’m passionate about mushrooms and knowledgeable about the various types.  I love mushroom hunting and preparing traditional Czech mushroom dishes that my family loves.

If you could ride any horse, past or present, who would it be?
My Kladruber stallion, Generale Ariosa XLVIII-4.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?
Always trust your instincts.

What is always in your refrigerator?
Carrots!