Isabell Werth and Wolfram Wittig have decided to go separate ways and end their nine-year relationship as student and trainer. The split came as a surprise, but Wittig stressed that the reasons for this schism were of a private nature.
"I can't say much about it, but I think it's important to stay abreast of speculation," Wittig explained. "One thing is certain: I take off my hat for Isabell Werth and Madeleine Winter-Schulze. Both showed much respect for my decision and were highly professional about it. I can only thank them for that and for the many glorious and successful years we worked together."
In 2002 Isabell Werth broke with her former trainer and sponsor Uwe Schulten-Baumer to ride for German maecenas Madeleine Winter-Schulze. As of that moment Wolfram Wittig became her head trainer and eyes on the ground. Together they achieved gold at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, 2007 European Championships, the 2007 World Cup Finals, silver and team gold at the 2008 Olympic Games, and team bronze at the 2010 World Equestrian Games. The pair also won the Otto-Lörke Prize for training Isabell's new Grand Prix star El Santo (by Ehrentusch).
At the 2011 CDI Dortmund last weekend, Werth was already assisted by her new trainer, German official team trainer Jonny Hilberath.
"For private reasons, Wolfram no longer the time to come to me to Rheinberg," Werth said. "With Jonny I have found another competent and experienced trainer who can support me. No matter if you're an Olympic champion or a novice rider, you need the critical eyes of an expert on the ground."
Photos © Astrid Appels
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