“Today we celebrate a truly special day, the 30th birthday of Itot du Château, the extraordinary horse who changed everything for me,” shared Tops-Alexander on Saturday.
“Toti has given me, and all of us, so many unforgettable memories in the arena and beyond. From incredible victories to quiet moments in the field, his courage, heart and warrior spirit have inspired so much more than sport.
“He inspired the creation of Toti Equestrian and continues to inspire the mission behind ITOT Foundation, reminding us every day of the incredible power horses have to change lives.
“Toti taught us belief, perseverance and confidence. His legacy lives on in every story, every journey and every dream he continues to inspire. Happy 30th birthday, Toti – our wonder horse.”
The 15.2-hand chestnut Selle Français gelding, by Le Tot de Semilly and out of Sophie du Chateau (Galoubet A), was purchased by Tops-Alexander and her husband, Jan Tops, in 2007 – and an incredible partnership ensued.
Together, Edwina and Toti represented Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2010 World Equestrian Games at Kentucky, where on both occasions they finished in the top ten, as well as the 2012 London Olympics.
The pair also had countless wins and placings at some of the biggest events around the globe. They won the CSI5* World Cup at London Olympia in 2008 and the CSI5* World Cup in Geneva in 2012, as well as the Longines Global Champions Tour Championship in 2011 and 2012.
Toti was retired from competition in 2014 at 17 years of age.
These days, Toti lives in the paddock at Stal Tops in Valkenswaard – a luxurious life of retirement at one of the world’s premier show jumping venues.
