A strong team: the Weidemann T4512 and T4512e

Sustainable operations – with Weidemann technology for people and animals.

The Equitanas Reitsport Zeitz equestrian centre is an exceptional example of how a challenge can give rise to a sustainable operational concept. Originally, the Zeitz Riding Club already operated its own facility. After the former equestrian centre fell victim to flooding, a new location had to be found. The approximately 200 members of the large riding club sought a sustainable and optimal long-term solution.

They finally found what they were looking for in a former military site – where a newly designed, large and modern equestrian centre was built, completed in 2021. At the same time, the centre was spun off into a non-profit limited company (gGmbH) to ensure its long-term professional and sustainable operation.

Structure, horse stock and team.

Today, the Equitanas Reitsport Zeitz equestrian centre is home to around 60 horses, including nine school horses. The day-to-day running and management of the horses and the centre are in the hands of a dedicated team comprising seven part-time and two full-time staff members.

Carmen Dänziger took over as managing director in 2023 and has since been responsible for the centre’s financial and organisational development. “We need a completely reliable fleet of machinery at our equestrian centre, one that meets our daily requirements with its range of available functions,” explains Carmen Dänziger.

Inclusion as part of everyday life.

Equitanas Reitsport GmbH is an inclusive organisation. In addition to traditional riding lessons, it offers therapeutic riding for children and adults, and has various partnerships with schools and organisations. Work with children and young people is a key focus here. A neighbouring care home for the elderly also uses the centre – the residents enjoy direct contact with ponies and horses and taking part in the riding club’s activities. This social approach also plays an important role in investment decisions.

Weidemann: a strong partner.

The equestrian centre has relied on Weidemann machines for many years. A Weidemann T4512 diesel and a Weidemann T4512e are currently in use. The electric-powered telescopic handler was most recently purchased to work in conjunction with the centre’s own photovoltaic system. “As well as reliability, the economic factors must also be right for us. We always keep a close eye on investments and running costs. With the T4512e, we’re achieving significant cost savings for our business,” says Carmen Dänziger. Furthermore, the purchase of the zero-emission machine was subsidised by Aktion Mensch – partly due to the equestrian centre’s inclusive usage concept.

Zero emissions during day-to-day riding operations.

A key focus of day-to-day operations is the maintenance of the extensive paddocks and free-stall stables. This is where the T4512, with its high manoeuvrability, is put to work every day: mucking out mainly takes place in the mornings, but sometimes also in the afternoons or evenings. Furthermore, the compact T4512e stands out because it can operate effortlessly in the indoor riding arena or directly in the stable corridor, producing no exhaust fumes and very little noise. The electric drive makes it possible to carry out this work without any problems whilst riding activities are in progress – without disturbing the horses, riding pupils or therapy sessions.

Versatile attachments for every task.

Both Weidemann telehandlers are used with a wide range of attachments, including: pallet forks, grab bucket, manure scraper (Farm Servant), bucket, sweeper and dozer blade. All attachments can be used flexibly with both machines – a clear advantage in day-to-day operations, as both the T4512 and the T4512e are sometimes in use at the same time.

Self-generated energy from the PV system and skilled machine operation.

The equestrian centre has a photovoltaic system with a capacity of around 100 kWh. The T4512e is fitted with a 28 kWh battery combined with a 6 kWh charger. The telescopic handler is regularly charged at midday after mucking out via a wallbox – directly using the farm’s own solar power. Other electrical equipment, such as lawnmowers, tools and brush cutters, is also powered by the PV system.

Three regular drivers and several other machine operators are on hand to ensure the safe and efficient use of the equipment. All hold a forklift licence and attend an annual refresher course. The team is impressed by the dimensions, stability and reliability of both Weide Mann telescopic handlers in their day-to-day work.

With two different drive systems, its own photovoltaic system and a clear business focus, Equitanas Reitsport GmbH tackles its diverse range of tasks efficiently and reliably. It is an optimal combination of technology, expertise and strategy that proves its worth every day in the day-to-day running of the equestrian centre.