Susan Altman: "You can be an example to other riders of how amazing PREs are for the sport of dressage"

Welcome to our interview series spotlighting riders who have excelled through the USPRE High Point program. These interviews explore the stories of riders and their horses, from their motivations to their triumphs.

Today let’s Introduce Susan Altman and Curro GS, who took home the USPRE High Point Award at the Devonwood in the Spring in Sherwood, Oregon on April 26-28 at 2nd Level scoring 68.714%

Can you tell us more about your horse?
Curro GS (barn name Churro) is a 9-year-old PRE who was imported from Spain in 2021.  He had done the young horse FEI classes there and did a bit of showing in the US after being imported.  When I purchased him in 2022, I already had a PRE x Hanoverian FEI schoolmaster, but was looking for a horse who had been nicely started with a solid foundation who I could continue to bring up the levels.  I had been looking for a few months at horses of various breeds but wasn’t finding “the one.”  I told my trainer I was going to stop looking because I only wanted something “really special” and wouldn’t you know, the day that I said I was going to stop looking is the day I saw Churro’s sales video.  I had to have him.  Something about him spoke to me and I just knew in my gut that he was the one I had been looking for.  Churro is very friendly and curious, smart and athletic, and we are a team who trust each other.

What initially drew you to the PRE horse breed, and what aspects of the breed do you particularly admire or enjoy?
My first PRE experience was not planned – I was not looking specifically for the breed, but what I quickly discovered about them has made me a convert.  I may never buy anything else!  Most importantly for me as a middle-aged adult amateur, I must have something I feel safe on.  The combination of the PRE’s athleticism, work ethic, intelligence, and connection to their person forms a really special experience that I’ve not had with other horses in my 40-plus years of riding.  To top it off, I find their rideability to generally be a fun experience.  They are bold and safe; they are comfortable and flashy; they are smart and fun – what more could you want?

What motivated you to participate in the USPRE High Point program?
I was excited to hear about the PRE High Point program, as I think it helps to highlight the breed at dressage shows, especially for adult amateurs.  The warm bloods generally get the attention and dominate the show scene, but there are other breeds that are highly athletic, competitive, bold, and fun that should be considered for both open and amateur riders.

Can you share some highlights from your experience competing in the USPRE High Point shows?
The USPRE High Point shows draw attention to the breed, and it is fun to watch other PREs showcase their talents at all levels.  I enjoy watching and meeting other PRE lovers with their beautiful horses.  

How has winning the USPRE High Point award impacted your riding journey?
We’ve won AA USPRE High Point in the national classes at two USDF Region 6 shows at Devonwood Equestrian Center, and it has been a great confidence-builder for me.  Of course, I believe in my horse and think he is amazing, but being able to proudly present him as an example of the breed is special to me and I consider it an honor.  I really believe in PREs as excellent horses for dressage and being a part of that is a fun experience!

Finally, what advice would you give to other PRE riders who are considering participating in the USPRE High Point program?
There’s no reason not to do it!  Go out there and proudly present yourself and your horse for consideration.  You can be an example to other riders of how amazing PREs are for the sport of dressage.

Photos are credited to Ella Chedester Photography