Mark Todd’s own account of his amazingly successful career, tells of the early Pony Club days in New Zealand, through showjumping, to burst on to the eventingscene and win his first of three Badminton titles in 1980, and going on to win two consecutive Olympic golds on his now legendary horse, Charisma. ‘Toddy’ recalls the lows as well as the highs – the death of his horse in front of millions in 1992, which deprived him of a ride for the Barcelona Olympics; victory at Burghley in 1996 snatched from his grasp at the last moment – as well as his family life with fellow-rider wife, Carolyn, and their two children, with characteristic humour and frankness. He also includes an invaluable selection of his personal tips and techniques for success.
Embark on an unforgettable journey with equestrian legend Sir Mark Todd in "So Far, So Good," his captivating autobiography. This first edition hardcover, published in 1998 by Weidenfeld & Nicolson Ltd, offers an intimate and revealing look into the life and career of one of the most celebrated figures in eventing history. From humble beginnings in the New Zealand Pony Club, Todd's passion for horses propelled him to international stardom. "So Far, So Good" vividly recounts his early showjumping experiences and his explosive arrival onto the eventing scene. Relive the thrill of his first of three Badminton Horse Trials victories in 1980, a triumph that marked the beginning of an era. The book chronicles the remarkable partnership between Mark Todd and his legendary mount, Charisma. Experience the magic as they soar to unprecedented heights, claiming two consecutive Olympic gold medals and etching their names into equestrian folklore. Todd's evocative prose transports you to the heart of the competition, allowing you to feel the adrenaline, the pressure, and the sheer joy of victory. But "So Far, So Good" is more than just a celebration of success. It's a candid and honest portrayal of the challenges and setbacks that Todd faced throughout his career. He bravely confronts the devastating loss of a horse in front of a global audience in 1992, a tragedy that shattered his Olympic dreams for Barcelona. He also recounts the heartbreak of having victory snatched away at the last moment at Burghley in 1996. These moments of vulnerability reveal the depth of Todd's character and his unwavering resilience. Beyond the equestrian triumphs and tribulations, Todd offers a glimpse into his personal life. He shares stories of his family, including his fellow-rider wife, Carolyn, and their two children, all told with characteristic humour and disarming frankness. This personal touch adds a layer of warmth and relatability to the narrative, making it all the more engaging. "So Far, So Good" also provides invaluable insights into Mark Todd's training philosophies and techniques. He generously shares his personal tips for success, offering aspiring riders and equestrian enthusiasts a treasure trove of knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or simply passionate about horses, you'll find inspiration and practical advice within these pages. This autobiography is considered a must-read for anyone interested in eventing, equestrian sports, or the pursuit of excellence. It's a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and the extraordinary bond between humans and animals. It offers inspiration for equestrians of all levels, and is an exciting, captivating read for fans of sporting biographies. A cherished find for any equestrian library, "So Far, So Good" remains a compelling portrait of a true sporting icon. Secure your piece of equestrian history today! This is a rare and valuable opportunity to own a first edition copy of this classic autobiography.
