Exclusive interview with Totilas’s new rider in Horse & Hound

H&H’s dressage special hits the shelves on Thursday 24 March and it’s packed full of unmissable features for dressage enthusiasts.

At home with Totilas

H&H has been granted exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the most speculated about dressage combo on the planet: Matthias Alexander Rath and the black wonder horse Totilas.

We’ll reveal how Matthias has coped with the pressure of taking the ride over from European and World Champion Edward Gal under the glare of the media spotlight and in the peppermill of international gossip.

This is a rare opportunity to see Totilas at home, and get an insight into the daily routine of this spectacular horse.

We’ve made it, but can we stay there?

2010 was a stellar year for British dressage and has heralded a new dawn of hope for international success for the UK’s top riders. But what is it that gets a nation to the top, and what would happen if Laura Bechtolsheimer’s star performer, Mistral Hojris, were out of action?

How can we prepare ourselves for 2012 — and beyond — to ensure that the dressage momentum created by recent successes can be maintained? Our writers ask past masters, competitors and trainers for their opinions.

Meet Amy Stovold

From humble Croydon roots, dressage rider Amy Stovold has now hit the big time. Amy nearly became an air hostess, but changed her mind at the last minute. This ‘sarf’ London girl’s determination to reach the top has seen her winning at international grand prix, but it has not been a straightforward road to success.

Find out how Amy achieved her dreams and came to own the “green, spooky and hot as hell” Macbrian, who Amy has tamed into the GP athlete who now graces arenas.

Bling it On

Our dressage special also includes a products guide of the latest must-have bling to give you that extra sparkle, as well as reports from Keysoe and Hartpury, regional highlights and Pammy Hutton’s astute comment.

On sale 24 March. Don’t miss it!

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