Dr. Günzel Graf von der Schulenburg remains a prominent figure in the German traditional carriage driving scene, having made outstanding contributions to the sport following the principles laid out by Benno von Achenbach.

Descended from one of Germany’s most traditional families, particularly in equestrian traditions, he felt a strong commitment to upholding this legacy. His family produced not only distinguished diplomats but also high-ranking officers, emphasizing the significance of thorough equestrian training, fostering a profound connection to horses, and contributing to the equestrian and carriage driving culture.

A significant personality in German equestrian sports, he served for over 20 years as the Chairman of the Carriage Driving Division in the German Equestrian Federation and the Carriage Driving Committee of the German Olympic Committee for Equestrian Sports (DOKR). Dr. Günzel Graf von der Schulenburg was a familiar presence at carriage driving competitions, notably at CIAT events in Cuts, France, where, until advanced age, he participated actively as a skilled driver in tandem, pairs, and singles.

Since the establishment of the International Association of Traditional Carriage Driving (AIAT) in 2007 in Paris, he dedicated himself passionately to the promotion of traditional carriage driving and the assessment of such events based on the principles set by Achenbach. Recognizing the cultural importance of carriage driving within societal and economic contexts, he foresaw the international bridging potential of this organization.

Collaborating with the team at the state stud, he played a pivotal role in developing the CIAT – Concours International d’Attelage de Tradition – at the Celle State Stud for seven years. Even in his last year of life, he utilized his connections to initiate the CIAT at the Redefin State Stud, which holds significant appeal for Eastern Germany, much like Celle does for the western part of the country.

Confident, elegant, and consistently composed, he made substantial contributions to AIAT, which now boasts members from 15 European countries. Chairman of the Specialized Carriage Driving Section in the German Equestrian Federation and the Carriage Driving Committee of the German Olympic Committee for Equestrian Sports (DOKR), he was also an active participant in carriage driving competitions.