I was inspired by the Scottish rider Scott Brash, who, for the record, is not gay, but a brilliant rider from Scotland. His mount in this particular competition, Hello Shelby, is an accomplished jumper, and has been highly successful for Brash and the British Equestrian Team.
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As an avid horse lover, as are many of you, I read Laura Hillenbrand’s beautifully written story of the life and career of the magnificent thoroughbred Seabiscuit. When the movie came out, I was one of the first people in line to see it. The most exciting part of the story for me was the incredible match race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral. I was ecstatic when I found a Youtube video of the match race that is still as exciting to watch today as it was first run in 1938. Here it is for your viewing pleasure:
In 2010, the World Equestrian Games were held in Lexington, Kentucky, just 2 hours drive from where I live in southwest Ohio. I had heard so much about the black stallion, Moorlands Totilas and his rider, Edward Gal, and knew that they would be competing in the Dressage competition. I had to buy a ticket. Watching the pair live in the Grand Prix freestyle final is an experience I will never forget. I knew the dressage horse featured in my first romance novel would have to be a magnificent black stallion.
Here’s some video of Totilas and Edward Gal in the European championships where they received at that time the unprecedented score of 92.3%.
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