The men behind the rocking horse version of superstar Valegro have captured the essence of another much-loved dressage horse.
As a 60th birthday present, and in tribute to a special horse, Kent-based Stevenson Brothers created the replica of Sanletto (Scooby) for Yolanda Olson.
Twins Marc and Tony Stevenson used photographs and hair from Sanletto’s mane and tail to recreate Yolanda’s “treasured horse of a lifetime”.
Ms Olson, the co-owner of the Olson Group whose brands include Chart Stables, said: “I genuinely could not think of a more fitting way to remember my much-loved horse Sanletto, he was a huge part of my life.
“With such an amazing likeness and so many little hints of Scooby, it is a once in a lifetime present to remember a once in a lifetime horse.
“I am not sure you can take delivery of a Stevenson Brothers replica horse without shedding a tear. So incredibly special.”
Sanletto, who was originally from South Africa, competed up to small tour level in the UK, with David Rumsey in the saddle. David told H&H Scooby was a “lovely sweet horse” with grand prix potential, but he died while still young, having undergone colic surgery and then another bout of colic.
Continues below…
Charlotte Dujardin’s surprise Christmas present: her very own Valegro
Charlotte's fiancé Dean Golding presented the Olympic champion with a hand-crafted rocking horse, in the shape of her medal-winning mount
Dressage with a difference: hobby horses at the ready to help NHS
Entry is open to all, with 80% of the entry fee going to NHS Charities Together
Subscribe to Horse & Hound this spring for great savings
Marc Stevenson said: “Scooby took Yolanda’s breath away and a tear or two was shed.
“We are being asked daily to make replicas, it’s a wonderful way to commemorate that lifetime special horse. We have made a rocking Valegro for Charlotte Dujardin, Toytown, Tinkerbell for Her Majesty The Queen, Bluestone Luke, Desert Orchid and Best Mate for Henrietta Knight to name a few.”
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.
