Traditional ride

Equestrian festival in St. Leonhard in imperial weather

Even the little ones showed off their skills at the traditional wreath-cutting event.(Bild: Leonhardiritt Grödig)

At the 46th Leonhardiritt in Grödig-St. Leonhard on Sunday, riders and their horses, all groomed to perfection, lined up. In glorious weather, the participants celebrated St. Leonhard, the patron saint of animals, especially horses, who also gave his name to the district. 

At the festive mass in the pilgrimage church of St. Leonhard, riders and horses received a blessing. During the subsequent wreath cutting at the Gruberbauer's rack field, even the youngest children cut a fine figure and proved their marksmanship. They fetched the wreaths from the gallows with hazelnut sticks. 

Participants big and small enjoyed the festive parade for St. Leonhard.(Bild: Leonhardiritt Grödig)

"The atmosphere was fantastic," said Maria Reitinger, chairwoman of the Christmas marksmen, traditional costume women and church community, who was delighted that there were more participants than last year. After a five-year coronavirus break, the traditional get-together is now growing again year on year. She is now fully committed to organizing the charity Christmas market in St. Leonhard.