Sir Mark Todd was humbled and appreciative of the many who had travelled from far and wide to celebrate his tremendous eventing career at EQUITANA Auckland’s A Night to Remember.
“It was just wonderful to see everyone” said Sir Mark who was joined on stage by former teammates, horse owners and others who had played an important part in a career that had spanned four decades “It is very humbling to have everyone say such nice things.”
Those who couldn’t make it sent videos, including top British riders Mary King and William Fox-Pitt as well as top New Zealand eventers Tim and Jonelle Price and others. Joining him on the stage were former teammates Blyth Tait, Tinks Pottinger, Jock Paget, Clarke Johnstone and others.
Helen Gilbert, who groomed back to back Olympic gold medal winning Charisma for six years, travelled all the way from the UK for the special evening – much to Sir Mark’s delight.
“It was very special” said Helen “Charisma was my baby – he was just the most incredible little horse”
Sir Mark Todd during the EQUITANA Auckland Masterclass
Eventing star presenter Sir Mark will still be at EQUITANA through to Sunday giving presentations and education sessions, as will his fellow stars, Australian dressage maestro Tristan Tucker, American horseman Al Dunning and New Zealand Olympic showjumper Bruce Goodin.
The four are also the judges in the IRT The Way of The Horse, the ultimate horsemanship where four invited trainers take unhandled three-year-olds from wild to willing in just an hour a day over the four days.
