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 became an integral part of my life. At the age of five, riding the draft horses on my grandparents' farm in Western New York. Through the decades, from competing in Western, saddle seat, hunters, and finally ending that period of my career with three-day eventing at the preliminary level in Woodstock, Vermont.
The 1970s began my dressage career. Being able to participate in clinics with international trainers at the USET Training Center in Gladstone, New Jersey, and purchasing from Lois Stephens one of her imported Grand Prix dressage horses. At 19, 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 continue 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 beginner dressage riders.
My wonderful equine partner for my Century Club ride was Forbidden, aka Trix, a 24-year-old Trakehner mare. Trix is patient, kind, and generous and is owned by Lana Josephsen. Together, we have trained and shown her through Third Level.
Now at 78, many of my students are also 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 my 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)
