Janet Thompson and Otto (OH)
Team #991: Janet Thompson and Otto
From: Chagrin Falls, Ohio
Ages: 80 & 21
Combined Age: 101
Test: Introductory Level Test B
My husband is still shaking his head over why he put a halter with a bow under the Christmas tree in the early 80s. We had our daughter on the way, and work was busy for both of us at the time.
We started with a little red Thoroughbred and were quickly pressed to look for a more versatile horse, so along came Piccolo, a “horse for a lifetime” who helped me reach Prix St. Georges and my trainer reach Grand Prix. Piccolo’s understudy, Renaissance, was on the same path when a chronic injury ended his career.
The rest of my riding years were capably handled by Adante, a Holsteiner who gave up jumping to learn dressage and took my trainer to her USDF silver medal. He took care of me through two hip replacements, was a great schoolmaster, and a successful volunteer for a new Cushing’s medication.
Big thanks to The Dressage Foundation, Otto and Lake Erie College, Richard Weiss, all Piccolo Pines boarders, and my trainer, Sarah Freeman, for making my Century Club ride possible.
I still feel 15 years younger!
