Farewell Itot - the little horse with the big heart, big jump and big scar! Photo courtesy GCT Chantilly
In the video below Australia’s Edwina Tops Alexander talks about the retirement of her little horse with a big heart, Itot du Chateau (Toti)
Standing just 15.2hh, the now 18 year old French bred chestnut has won a numerous Grand Prix as well jumping in two Olympics, two FEI World Cup Finals and a World Championships with Edwina. However Toti’s career was nearly over before it began as, at the age of three, he escaped from his field in France and was hit by a car. Despite the scars which are still visible on his head and shoulder, the gelding made a slow but full recovery and went on to catch Edwina’s eye as a six-year-old jumping under France’s Michel Hecart.
Edwina’s husband, Jan Tops, bought Itot for her as a New Year’s gift in 2007 and Toti not only helped Edwina to become the overall Global Champions Tour winner in 2011 and 2012 but has also helped lift Australia's profile in equestrian sport
Itot was retired from international competition in Paris on the weekend and we say thank you Toti for the many years of enjoyment we've derived from watching you
Merci et au revoir Itot!
Photos courtesy Stefano Grasso/Longines Global Champions Tour
