Linda Todenhagen and Trix (FL)
Team #970: Linda Todenhagen and Trix
From: Lake Worth, Florida
Ages: 77 & 24
Combined Ages: 101
Test: Training Level Test 2
Horses were always an integral part of my life. At age five, I rode the draft horses on my grandparents' farm in New York. Through the decades, I competed in Western, saddle seat, hunters, and ended with three-day eventing at the preliminary level in Woodstock, Vermont.
In the1970s, I began my dressage career. I participated in clinics at the USET Training Center in Gladstone and purchased an imported Grand Prix dressage horse from Lois Stephens. Dominik was the perfect teacher. With Michael Poulin as my trainer, I competed in the screening trials for the World Championships at Prix St. Georges, placing 6th, and in the Intermediate 1, in 8th place. The next competition was for the Pan Am Games and 5th place. This qualified us for the national sports festival in Colorado Springs, where we won a silver medal.
I continued to train with Michael and Walter Zettle, training and competing many horses from Training Level through FEI. I worked with young riders, amateur Grand Prix competitors, and beginners.
My wonderful partner for my Century Club ride was Forbidden, aka Trix, a 24-year-old Trakehner. Trix is patient, kind, and generous, and is owned by Lana Josephsen. Together, we trained and showed her through Third Level.
At 78, many of my students are senior citizens. We love having the ability to still ride and work hard at our sport, keeping us young at heart and body.
My life has been blessed with supportive parents, Herb and Jane Rissinger, and my patient, understanding, and loving husband of 55 years, Peter.
Photo: Linda Todenhagen aboard Trix, Peter Todenhagen, Sandy Josephson, Lana Josephson (owner), Noreen O’Sullivan (show manager)
