Totilas - A portrait of the horse of the century

Totilas, the "horse of the century", is considered one of the most successful dressage horses of all time. The imposing black stallion was born in the Netherlands in 2000 and impressed with his unique elegance and exceptional movements. Under Edward Gal, he broke several world records and won gold at the 2009 European Championships and the 2010 World Equestrian Games. Even after his sale for a record price of over 10 million euros, he remained an icon of the dressage sport. Totilas not only left his mark on the sport, but also left a lasting legacy as a stallion.

On ClipMyHorse.TV you will find all information about Totilas. Discover exciting video highlights of his greatest successes, take a look at his impressive pedigree and get details about Totilas' offspring.

👉 Click here for Totilas' profile on ClipMyHorse.TV

Totilas profile

• Name: Totilas
• Born: May 23, 2000
• Died: December 14, 2020
• Breed: Dutch Warmblood
• Color: Black
• Pedigree: Gribaldi (sire) x Glendale (dam)
• Rider: Edward Gal, later Matthias Alexander Rath
• Owner: Paul Schockemöhle & Ann-Kathrin Linsenhoff
• World records: Highest dressage points ever achieved (2009)
• Successes: Multiple world records, triple gold at the European Dressage Championships 2009, World Champion title 2010
• Special feature: Exceptional quality of movement (outstanding piaffe and trot movements), known worldwide as the "horse of the century" 
• Offspring: Over 20 registered breeding stallions and numerous sport horses

Totilas' pedigree: Breed, pedigree and breeding

What breed is Totilas?

Totilas is a Dutch warmblood (KWPN). This breed is known for its versatility and excellent suitability for top-class sport. Dutch warmbloods are characterized by elegance, athleticism and intelligence, which makes them preferred partners in dressage sport. 

Totilas' pedigree: Outstanding genes from his sire and dam

Totilas' sire is the famous Trakehner Gribaldi. The internationally acclaimed dressage stallion is known for his powerful movements and harmonious rides. Totilas inherited his powerful trot and spectacular piaffe from him. 

Totilas' dam also has an impressive bloodline. The mare Lominka is descended from the stallions Glendale and Akteur. These top stallions stand for strength of movement and versatility.

This combination made Totilas a horse that united elegance and athletic performance like no other.

The development of Totilas: Targeted breeding

Totilas was bred in the Netherlands in 2000 by breeders Jan K. Schuil and Anna Schuil-Visser. Their aim was to create a horse that would redefine the boundaries of dressage sport. The targeted selection of parents with outstanding genetics and the focus on excellent movement qualities led to the birth of a horse that not only met expectations, but exceeded them.

Why is Totilas' pedigree so remarkable?

Totilas' pedigree combines two of the best lines in international dressage horse breeding. The combination of Gribaldi's elegance and Lominka's versatility resulted in a horse with exceptional physical and mental qualities. These genetics not only made Totilas an exceptional athlete in the sport, but also a sought-after stallion.

You can find more information about Totilas' pedigree on ClipMyHorse.TV
👉 Click here for Totilas' profile on ClipMyHorse.TV

‍Theimpressive career of Totilas in dressage: his world records and successes

Totilas, the Dutch warmblood stallion known as the"wonder stallion", made dressage history with his impressive performances under rider Edward Gal. Here are his most important world records and successes:

World records

European Championships Windsor 2009 (GBR):

• Grand Prix de Dressage: 84.085 %
• Freestyle Freestyle: 90,70 %

➡️ Video tip: In this video you can experience a historic moment in dressage sport: Totilas' legendary freestyle freestyle at the FEI European Championships 2009 in Windsor, in which he set a world record with 90.70 points . Immerse yourself in this unique performance and enjoy the harmony and elegance that made dressage history.

World Cup tournament London 2009 (GBR):

• Grand Prix Freestyle: 92.300 %

CHIO Aachen 2010 (GER):

• Grand Prix Special: 86,458 %
  • Contained the highest score of 10 28 times.‍

➡️ Video tip: Experience the legendary performance of Totilas and Edward Gal at the CHIO Aachen 2010. In the Grand Prix Special, also known as the Deutsche Bank Prize, they set a world record with 86.458 % and thrilled the judges with 28 times the highest score of 10.

Further successes

‍2009- Dutch Championships (NED):

• Grand Prix: average score of 81.392 %.

2009 - CHIO Rotterdam (NED):

• Grand Prix: Victory.
• Grand Prix Freestyle: 84.500 %.

2009 - European Championships Windsor (GBR):

• Team classification: Gold.
• Grand Prix Freestyle: Gold, 90.750 % (world record).
• Grand Prix Special: Silver.

2010 - World Cup Final, 's-Hertogenbosch (NED):

• Grand Prix Freestyle: Victory.

2010 - Dutch Championships:

• Title defense.

2010 - World Equestrian Games, Lexington (USA):

• Team classification: Gold.
• Grand Prix Special: Gold.
• Grand Prix Freestyle: Gold.

‍➡️Video tip: Experience the unforgettable Grand Prix Freestyle of Totilas, the legendary wonder stallion, at the FEI World Equestrian Games 2010.

Why Totilas was so expensive - A look at his value and price

With an estimated sales price of over 10 million euros, Totilas became the most expensive dressage horse in the world. But what made him so extraordinary and justified this record price?

Unique sporting successes

Totilas' sporting record is unique: he broke several world records and won numerous gold medals, including triple gold at the 2009 European Championships and the 2010 World Equestrian Games. Particularly noteworthy was his freestyle ride, which was the first in history to be scored over 90 percent - an unprecedented achievement in dressage sport. These successes made Totilas the benchmark for quality and perfection.

Outstanding breeding line

His excellent pedigree contributed significantly to his high value. As a son of the legendary Trakehner stallion Gribaldi and the Dutch warmblood mare Lominka, Totilas combined the best bloodlines. After his retirement from the sport, he became one of the most sought-after stallions in the world. With a stud fee of up to 8,000 euros per covering, Totilas was also a valuable investment from an economic point of view.

Global awareness and media presence

Totilas was not only an athlete, but also a global media superstar. His performances attracted spectators who had previously paid little attention to dressage. He became a figurehead for equestrian sport and a symbol of elegance and excellence. His popularity increased his market value considerably, as he was also a valuable advertising medium for sponsors and event organizers.

Rarity of a horse of the century

Horses like Totilas only come along once in a generation. The combination of exceptional talent, impressive pedigree and worldwide fame made him a horse of the century, whose uniqueness can hardly be surpassed. This rarity justified his record price and made him a role model for future generations in dressage sport.

Symbol of perfection in dressage sport

Totilas embodied perfection and elegance in a way that fascinated fans and experts alike. His high price not only reflected his sporting success, but also his lasting influence on dressage sport and breeding.

Was Totilas tortured - focus on controversy and criticism

The question of whether Totilas was tortured during his career sheds light on the challenges and moral dilemmas of top-class sport. In addition to his impressive successes, the horse of the century repeatedly became the subject of discussions about controversial training methods, health risks and the responsibility of those involved.

Criticism of the training methods

One of the biggest controversies revolved around the use of the roll cure, in which the horse's neck is strongly rolled. This method, which Totilas' first rider Edward Gal was accused of using, is still polarizing today: supporters emphasize its effect in promoting mobility, while critics see it as a potentially painful practice that can cause physical and psychological damage to the horse. Whether Totilas actually suffered from this technique has never been clearly proven, but the public debate has sharpened the focus on ethical training standards in dressage sport.

Intensive use and public appearances

After Totilas was sold for a record price of over 10 million euros, public attention on the horse grew enormously. In addition to his sporting appearances, he was also used intensively as a stallion. Critics complained that this double burden, combined with the high pressure of expectation, had a negative impact on his health. In fact, Totilas repeatedly suffered from injuries during his career, which forced him to take longer breaks and ultimately led to his retirement from the sport.

Health problems and accusations of overworking

Especially after his move to Matthias Alexander Rath it was often questioned whether Totilas had started at competitions despite obvious health problems. Lameness and other complaints accompanied his performances, which raised doubts about the prioritization of his well-being. The owners always emphasized that Totilas' well-being came first. But public perception remained ambivalent, especially given the high expectations that came with his status as the "horse of the century".

Reactions from animal rights activists

Animal welfare organizations such as PETA sharply criticized the intensive use of Totilas and called for stricter regulations in equestrian sport to better protect top horses. They saw his case as an example of how sporting and commercial success could take precedence over animal welfare. These accusations met with both approval and opposition, but helped to initiate a broader discussion about horse welfare in top-class sport.

Conclusion: Was Totilas tortured?

Whether Totilas was actually tortured cannot be conclusively determined. What is certain is that he was under immense pressure - be it due to high expectations, intensive training schedules or health problems. His case highlights the balancing act between sporting success and animal welfare and has triggered an important debate about ethical training methods and the responsible treatment of high-performance horses. Totilas remains a symbol of the challenges and responsibility that go hand in hand with top performance in equestrian sport.

Totilas' death: cause of death and the last year

Totilas passed away on December 14, 2020 at the age of 20. His death marked the end of a life characterized by unprecedented success, controversy and health challenges. The news triggered worldwide mourning and led to reflection on the stresses and strains to which high-performance horses are exposed.

Cause of death: Totilas' fight against colic

According to an official statement, Totilas died as a result of colic, a dangerous disease of the digestive tract that is common in horses. Colic can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. In our article "Colic in horses", you can find out everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms and measures to help your horse in an emergency.
Despite prompt medical treatment and emergency surgery, Totilas could not be saved. The exact cause of the colic was not disclosed, but it was probably a late consequence of his intensive career and advanced age.

Totilas' retirement and the last years

After retiring from sport in 2015, Totilas spent a quiet life as a stud stallion at a stud farm in Germany. During this time, he sired numerous offspring who are successful in the dressage world today. These offspring carry on his exceptional talent and keep his legacy alive.

His owners made sure that Totilas was able to lead a dignified and relaxed life after the strain of his competition career. Nevertheless, the long-term health consequences of his high sporting achievements remained an issue. Injuries and overexertion during his active time may have contributed to the long-term deterioration of his health.

A worthy farewell for a horse of the century

Totilas remains a legend, not only because of his impressive sporting successes, but also because of the lasting debate that his life and death have triggered about horse welfare in high-performance sport. His name is inextricably linked with elegance, perfection and the challenges that come with the career of a top horse.

➡️ Video tip: In our playlist we take you on a journey through the highlights of Totilas - experience the most beautiful goosebump moments of the exceptional stallion.

Totilas' legacy: How the horse of the century shaped equestrian sport

A milestone in dressage sport

Totilas has changed the sport of dressage forever. He set new standards with his incomparable elegance, precision and quality of movement. His world records, including being the first horse to score over 90 percent in a freestyle, made him a role model for future generations. He not only inspired dressage riders, but also attracted people who had previously had little contact with equestrian sport. Totilas impressively demonstrated the potential of the partnership between man and horse and inspired riders, trainers and breeders all over the world.

Descendants: His living legacy

Totilas' legacy lives on through his offspring. As a sought-after stallion, he produced numerous talented horses that are successful in the dressage world today. They carry on his distinctive movement quality and charisma and make him an important influencing factor in modern horse breeding. Totilas has not only shaped the sport itself, but has also had a decisive influence on the genetics of future top horses.

👉 Here you can find an overview of Totilas' offspring

A new awareness of horse welfare

In addition to his sporting achievements, Totilas has also sparked discussion about the welfare of top horses. His career was characterized by unprecedented fame, but also by critical debates about training methods, pressure to perform and the treatment of top horses. Totilas has influenced not only the sporting but also the ethical standards in equestrian sport. He remains a symbol of the fact that success must be in harmony with the welfare of the animal.

A symbol of elegance and perfection

Totilas was more than just a sport horse - he was a legend. His performances in the arena, his offspring and the stories that surround him make him an unforgettable symbol of perfection and elegance. Totilas not only changed the sport of dressage, but also created an emotional connection to horses that goes far beyond the sport. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of the equestrian world for many years to come.

FAQs: Everything you need to know about the horse of the century at a glance

Who was Totilas?

Totilas, also known as the "horse of the century", was a Dutch warmblood and one of the most successful dressage stallions in history. His extraordinary movements and world records made him a legend in dressage sport.

When was Totilas born and when did he die?

Totilas was born on May 23, 2000 in the Netherlands and died on December 14, 2020 at the age of 20.

Who were Totilas' riders?

Totilas was initially ridden by Edward Gal, with whom he achieved his greatest successes. After his sale, Matthias Alexander Rath took over the reins.

What successes did Totilas celebrate?

Totilas broke several world records and won three gold medals at the 2009 European Championships as well as further titles at the 2010 World Equestrian Games. His freestyle ride, which was rated over 90% for the first time in history, is particularly well known.

What is Totilas known for?

Totilas is known for his perfect piaffe, spectacular trot movements and his unique elegance. He set new standards in dressage sport.

How much did Totilas cost at the sale?

Totilas was sold for a record price of over 10 million euros in 2010 and is still considered one of the most expensive horses in the world today.

Why is Totilas called the "horse of the century"?

Totilas was described as the "horse of the century" due to his exceptional performance, elegance and impressive records. He was an icon who had a lasting impact on the sport of dressage.

Are there any descendants of Totilas?

Yes, Totilas has numerous offspring, including many successful sport horses and breeding stallions. Over 20 of his sons have been registered as stallions.

What was Totilas' most important performance?

One of his most important performances was his freestyle ride at the 2009 European Championships in Windsor, where he set a world record of 90.75%.

Where can I see videos of Totilas' performances?

Videos of Totilas' legendary performances are available on ClipMyHorse.TV.

How much does a foal by Totilas cost?

Prices for a foal by Totilas are often in the six-figure range. This depends on factors such as pedigree, breeding and sporting potential. Totilas' stud fee recently amounted to 4,000 to 8,000 euros, making his offspring highly sought-after.

What was Totilas' highest score?

Totilas achieved his highest score at the Grand Prix Freestyle in London in 2009 with a world record of 92.30%. This outstanding performance made him a dressage legend.