Gallop to Freedom

When Cavalia—the amazing equestrian-themed “spectacular,” melding costumes and theatrics with stunt riding and haute école—first took North America by storm in 2004, few people knew who Frédéric Pignon and Magali Delgado were. But the whole world was soon abuzz with talk of the magical display these two remarkable individuals provided their audience—whether horse-crazy or layperson, none could walk away unaffected by the powerful connection they demonstrated with their unparalleled cast of beautiful horses.

Now in this remarkable book, Frédéric—a specialist in liberty and ground work—and Magali—a talented dressage rider at the Grand Prix level—combine efforts and share the secrets of the breathtaking relationships they have cultivated over the course of their lives with horses.

“I believe Frédéric Pignon and Magali Delgado are two of the finest horsemen in the history of horsemanship. Their unique ability to relate to the hearts and minds of horses has inspired millions of horse lovers who have been awed by their performances in North America and Europe.” —Linda Tellington-Jones, creator of Tellington TTouch Training™ and author of many books including The Ultimate Horse Behavior and Training Book

FRÉDÉRIC PIGNON and MAGALI DELGADO were born to horse-loving parents in the south of France. They both developed quite radical ideas about the treatment of horses and when they married in 2003 it was as if they had been made for one another. Horses became their passion and their family. An extraordinary Lusitano stallion, Templado, entered their lives and showed them that they had not only much to learn about horses but much to “unlearn.” The only way to tame this uncompromising but beautiful and talented horse was to go along with his wishes. This “reversal of roles” is now the key to their approach, the success of which has been illustrated by Frédéric’s ability to perform in front of huge audiences with up to six loose stallions, and by Magali who, with her horse Dao, has reached the summit of European dressage competition.

Frédéric and Magali were the founders of Cavalia, along with Normand Latourelle, which toured the United States and European capitals from 2004 to 2009 playing to more than two million spectators. In addition they have worked with such leading figures as Corky Randall (trainer for the legendary film The Black Stallion), Don Manuel Vidrié Gómez of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, and Linda Tellington-Jones.When not performing, Frédéric and Magali live in France on their family’s breeding farm, raising horses in accordance with their principles. It would indeed be surprising if we do not soon hear about new exploits of this remarkable duo.

Read an excerpt from this book on EquiSearch.com:
The Six Golden Pinciples of Horse Training