Todd Takes Step Closer to London 2012

In his best result since his comeback in 2008, champion equestrian Mark Todd has won the three-star event at the Blenheim International Horse Trials in England.

Taking him a step closer to the London 2012 Olympics, Mark won the eight- and nine- year old section by just less than three points on NZB Land Vision.

NZB Land Vision was purchased in England at the start of Mark's Olympic comeback campaign following the horse's victory at the British Intermediate Championships at Gatcome. The hope was for the then seven-year-old to spearhead Mark's talent pool along with NZB Gandalf, who partnered Mark at the Beijing Olympics.

With NZB Gandalf's untimely demise earlier this year due to a neurological disorder, NZB Land Vision is now rapidly assuming the role as the ace in Mark's pack.

"This horse is a really exciting part of the team, he can do anything. He could be one of the best horses I've ever had. There's still a lot of improvement in him but he's destined for the top and 2012 is definitely the aim."

Mark plans to take NZB Land Vision to the CCI*** in Boekelo, Holland next month.

"This was only his fourth run this year, he had a few niggles in the spring but that has probably benefitted him as he's really settled and matured in his attitude this year."

Mark and his team - sponsored by New Zealand Bloodstock - also include ten-year-old gelding, NZB Grass Valley, the horse partnering Mark for the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky in a fortnight.

Mark's trip to Kentucky will mark 32 years since his international competitive debut at the same venue.

For news and sale information from New Zealand Bloodstock Ltd, contact Marketing Executive Jessie Gower (jessie.gower@nzb.co.nz)