Equestrian legends: the top players of the last two decades

In the world of equestrian sports, the term “top players” has a unique meaning: it refers to the remarkable partnerships between horse and rider. Over the past twenty years, a select few equine stars have stood out, combining exceptional talent, athleticism, and a profound connection with their riders. From the unstoppable King Edward to the record-breaking Valegro, these icons have set new benchmarks in their respective disciplines. Let’s explore the journeys of these extraordinary champions.

King Edward: the fearless fighter

King Edward, the petite chestnut gelding, has defied expectations in the world of show jumping. Standing at just 1.65 meters, his modest size is overshadowed by his incredible heart and agility. Early in his career, he was barely noticed in young horse competitions, but his trajectory changed dramatically in 2019. Under the expert guidance of Henrik von Eckermann and Janika Sprunger, he transformed into a world-class competitor.

The 2021 Tokyo Olympics marked his true breakthrough. Competing barefoot, King Edward became one of only three horses—alongside H&M All In and Elliot—to complete the games without a single fault. His impeccable record and natural fluidity left audiences in awe. Von Eckermann describes him as “a machine, an incredible animal,” noting that his high energy levels are both a challenge and a gift.

While the Paris 2024 Olympics didn’t go as planned, the partnership between King Edward and von Eckermann remains one of the most formidable in the sport. Fans are eagerly anticipating their performance in Los Angeles 2028, where they aim to secure a career-defining victory.

Valegro: the king of dressage

Few names resonate in the world of dressage like Valegro. Widely regarded as the greatest dressage horse of all time, this dark bay gelding redefined the sport with his elegance, precision, and consistency. Discovered by Carl Hester at just two years old, Valegro was destined for greatness. Together with Charlotte Dujardin, he formed a partnership that dominated the sport for nearly a decade.

Valegro’s list of achievements is staggering. He won three Olympic gold medals and set a world freestyle record of 94.3% at Olympia in 2014—a performance that is still celebrated as a landmark moment in dressage. Every stride of his career was marked by grace and an unparalleled bond with Dujardin, who often said, “I enjoyed every moment with this extraordinary horse.”

Retired in 2016, Valegro’s legacy endures as a symbol of excellence in dressage. He not only broke records but also broke barriers, drawing new fans to the sport and inspiring the next generation of riders.

Hickstead: a small horse with a big heart

Despite standing just 1.63 meters tall, Hickstead proved that greatness comes in all sizes. The spirited bay stallion was a once-in-a-lifetime partner for Canadian show jumper Eric Lamaze, with whom he achieved global fame. Known for his feisty temperament and extraordinary athleticism, Hickstead was a competitor who never backed down.

His career highlights include individual gold and team silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats. In 2010, he was named “Best Horse in the World,” a title befitting his immense talent and impact.

For Canadians, Hickstead and Lamaze became cultural icons. Their partnership earned a place in Canada’s Hall of Fame, underscoring their influence beyond the arena. Even after his untimely passing, Hickstead remains a cherished figure in equestrian history.

Moorland Totilas: the pioneer of perfection

No conversation about equestrian legends is complete without Moorland Totilas. This dark bay stallion, standing at 1.75 meters, was a trailblazer in the dressage world. Early in his career, his movements were so precise and fluid that they were sometimes criticized as “too perfect,” a testament to his extraordinary skill.

Under the guidance of Edward Gal, Totilas shattered records, becoming the first horse to score over 90% in a dressage competition. Together, they won every major title available, though an Olympic gold medal remained elusive. In the later part of his career, Totilas was ridden by Matthias Rath, but the magic of his partnership with Gal was never quite replicated.

Despite this, Totilas’ influence on the sport is unmatched. He elevated dressage to new levels of artistry and athleticism, captivating audiences and raising expectations for what is possible in the discipline.

The enduring legacy of equestrian champions

The stories of King Edward, Valegro, Hickstead, and Totilas are more than tales of athletic success—they are examples of the deep bond between horse and rider. These equine legends have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring fans and competitors alike with their courage, grace, and determination.

Equestrian sports are unique in their celebration of two athletes working as one. The partnership between horse and rider is at the heart of every great performance, and the top players of the past two decades have shown what is possible when that partnership reaches its peak. As the sport evolves, the legacies of these champions will continue to inspire future generations to dream big and ride boldly.

Translation and adaptation by Alessandra Ceserani

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