During the year of this story Salut changed significantly.

SALUT, the beginning of the story.

In Kladruby in the Czech Republic you will find the old state stud complex founded in 1579 by Emperor Rudolf II. Breeding is still active of the impressive Altkludruber horses, for centuries having been uses as parade horses at various royal courts and some dignitaries of the Church.

Since the horses have a calm temper the Royal Swedish Horse Guard found them suitable as fanfare trumpet horses. A number of them have been purchased from Kladruby during recent years.

In April 2008 I travelled with a group of enthusiasts to inspect the horses at Kladruby selected for acquisition. I had already been asked if I could give one of the horses a basic training during one year (no trumpet playing required). My choice was a 4-year horse with the impressive name of Generale Perfecta. As a working name in Sweden he became Salut.

First introduction.

We were given the opportunity to do some cross country riding on some of the older Kladruby horses. It was no problem to go through water and to jump a few obstacles.

The drive home was the first experience from transportation for the three horses but it went very well and quiet.