Vladimir Littauer

[2][3] During his time in the school, Littauer's equestrian training was based on the French style of dressage as taught by James Fillis.

[4] During the Summer Olympics of 1912, Littauer took notice of Russian cavalry officers who had spent time in Pinerolo, Italy learning methods pioneered by Federico Caprilli.

The officers distinguished themselves and excited much interest in Caprilli's new system of "forward riding," which, at the time, represented a repudiation of traditional manège-style dressage techniques.

[5] Son of a St. Petersburgh industrialist, Vladimir Littauer attended the Nicholas Cavalry College as a junker (officer cadet) for two years, starting in 1911.

After a year of peacetime garrison duties in Moscow, Littauer and his regiment were mobilized for active service against Germany with the outbreak of World War I.

[6] He continued to serve as a mounted cavalryman on the Eastern Front until the October Revolution of 1917, reaching the rank of Rotmistr, (equivalent to Captain).

"[9] After coming to the United States in 1921, Littauer took factory and sales jobs in New York City to help him learn to speak English.

In 1937 Littauer left Boots and Saddles to begin working with students on their own horses and to offer riding clinics at schools, colleges and hunt clubs.

[15] His teachings continue to be advocated and supported by the American National Riding Commission and taught by schools affiliated with the ANRC.