Bundestrainer Klaus Balkenhol
chooses Albion
At Spoga 1998 Albion Saddlemakers signed a
formal sponsorship agreement with Klaus Balkenhol. Albion is
delighted he has chosen to be associated with their company. It
can now be revealed that Albion Saddlemakers' highly acclaimed SL
dressage saddle, introduced earlier this year, was designed by
Paul Belton in association with Klaus Balkenhol, arguably the
most talented dressage rider in the world.
Multi gold medal winner Klaus Balkenhol represented his country on the Olympic Gold medal winning teams in 1992, and 1996, and at the 1994 World Games took team gold and individual silver. He has been Germanys National Champion no less than five times.
Eighteen months ago Klaus first discussed with Albion Saddlemakers chief designer Paul Belton, the possibility of Albion fitting a prospective Olympic horse, which was proving extremely difficult. Initially, Paul and his design team were perplexed as the animal did not appear unusual, yet every conventional saddle interfered with his performance.
The challenge was accepted by the Albion team. With Klaus Balkehol providing rider input, and Paul Belton's ability to isolate and correct design imperfections, the SL began to take shape.
To begin with a radical tree development, the "Keyhole" was designed to accomodate the high narrow wither and broad, flat back of the modern warmblood. Then innovative changes to conventional design included special cushioning of the tree to give even the most sensitive horse complete comfort. This had to be achieved without putting extra bulk under the rider's leg. Every conceivable effort was made to ensure the horse's comfort and then the same attention given to providing perfection for rider's position and "feel".
After twelve months of flying between Walsall and Germany, Paul produced the saddle Klaus required. The research that went into this custom-made model provided the basis for the Albion SL launched at Beta in February. Albion's sponsorship agreement with Klaus includes his ongoing input to enable them to further inprove their saddle range.
The Albion SL incorporates all the specific features required by Klaus Balkenhol and is available in a wide range of trees to suit virtually every type of horse. It is made from specially tanned Swiss leather, researched and produced specifically for this saddle. The leather is incredibly soft yet extremely hard wearing and gives "feel" properties second to none. Consequently the Albion SL is available only in this particular hide, with color choice limited to Black or Dark Havana.
Sinch this launch, riders and trainers worldwide have been flocking to Albion who are working flat out to keep up with the demand. In less than six months the SL has become the most popular saddle in the entire Albion range.
Please note that prior to 2002 all SL saddles were stamped with the Style trademark.For further information contact Performance Saddlery at 1-800-258-0006.
Performance Saddlery
if you have any comments or questions.