The journey of a champion often begins in unexpected places. For Tonico do Top, a striking chestnut Lusitano stallion, his early life was spent as a parade horse in the Brazilian jungle. However, through dedication, expert training, and a shared dream, Tonico transformed into a formidable competitor in the FEI dressage ring, achieving significant success in the 2009 show season. This transformation is a testament to the power of perseverance and the deep bond between horse and rider.
The Adventure Begins: Discovering Tonico
In 2006, Linda and Joe Denniston, clients of the author, set out to find a Lusitano stallion with the ambition of competing at Grand Prix and later standing at stud. The search spanned continents and countless videos, seeking a horse with specific gaits and athletic potential. Their attention was eventually captured by a video of a stallion in Brazil named Tonico do Top. Though he was 15.3 hands, 7 years old, and possessed an impressive extended trot and some flying changes, his canter was passable, his trot lacked cadence, and his walk was weak. Despite these shortcomings, the author was drawn to the “shiny chestnut,” sensing a hidden potential.
The author and Linda traveled to Brazil to assess Tonico in person. Their initial impressions were a mix of surprise and intrigue. The farm, Sucandi, was owned by Florian and Roberta Pass, a young couple who had developed a passion for horses through their daughter. The farm itself was beautiful, with lush surroundings and a welcoming atmosphere. Tonico, though possessing a magnificent neck and shoulder, lacked muscle definition in his back. However, his demeanor was regal; he approached his handler with confidence and presence, immediately captivating the author.
During their assessment, Tonico displayed some tension and lacked topline stretch, and his flying changes were somewhat voluntary. However, the author recognized an underlying willingness to try. This initial assessment, coupled with the charm of the farm and its hosts, solidified the decision to purchase Tonico. Alongside Tonico, a yearling filly named Bora-Bora, who exhibited promising warmblood-like movement, was also acquired for Linda’s breeding stock.
The First Ride and Evaluation: Unlocking Potential
The initial rides with Tonico were a critical step in understanding his temperament and trainability. The author found that despite his tension, Tonico was remarkably willing to listen and tried to understand the rider’s aids. Through systematic exercises, Tonico began to respond positively, allowing for better straightness and balance, which aided his relaxation.
The author spent considerable time working on Tonico’s basic gaits, impressed by his persistent effort even when challenged with exercises like counter-canter. While collection and advanced movements were beyond his current capabilities, Tonico demonstrated an ability to gather himself for transitions and half-halts. A significant observation was Tonico’s aversion to the whip, a remnant of his past experiences, necessitating a patient approach to desensitization.
The author also had the opportunity to observe Orlando Farcada, a renowned Brazilian dressage rider, train his horses. This visit provided valuable insights into advanced training techniques, including canter pirouettes and posing. Orlando’s method involved longeing horses on the beach for strength training, a practice that highlighted creative approaches to conditioning.
Challenges and Triumphs: Retraining and Rehabilitation
Upon arrival in the United States, Tonico faced significant adjustments. His behavior in a new stable environment was a stark contrast to his calm demeanor in Brazil, marked by aggression and anxiety. Furthermore, the cold Maryland climate was a shock to the tropical-bred stallion.
The retraining process focused on building Tonico’s topline and strengthening his back, which was crucial for improving his gaits and overall soundness. With the support of Gene Freeze of County Saddlery, a properly fitting saddle was secured. Dr. Roger I. Scullin, the veterinarian, treated Tonico for potential discomfort in his back, allowing him to work pain-free.
Tonico’s movement initially exhibited a “jackhammer” action in his front legs, with a tendency to pound the ground when nervous. The training focused on establishing a relaxed tempo, encouraging impulsion, and straightening him through subtle lateral work. This involved exercises like shoulder-in and haunches-in to improve his tracking and suppleness.
Desensitization to the whip was a key component, transforming it from a source of fear into a valuable training tool. Tapping Tonico with the whip while he achieved a good topline stretch resulted in a more elevated and suspended trot. This association eventually led him to reach for the hand and increase his stride length. Similar work in the canter focused on maintaining a longer stride and lift through his back, even in collected gaits.
Tonico’s behavioral challenges, such as weaving and biting his sides, gradually subsided with regular work and the companionship of other horses. His adjustment to the outdoors also progressed, though his territorial nature required careful management of his turnout.
The Road to Competition: From Local Shows to Championships
The author’s first outing with Tonico was at a Lusitano show in Lexington, Virginia. Despite initial concerns about his studdish behavior, Tonico performed well in a “hack” class, demonstrating his temperament and presence. This outing confirmed his potential and provided valuable experience away from home.
Further training throughout the fall and winter of 2007-2008 focused on improving Tonico’s basics. Visits from an osteopath, Stefan Stammer, provided additional therapeutic support, helping to refine his movement and swing. By January 2008, Tonico was ready to compete at higher levels.
The 2008 show season saw Tonico progressing through Fourth Level and Prix St. Georges (PSG). Despite challenges with distractions in crowded warm-up areas, Tonico demonstrated remarkable focus and willingness. He achieved notable scores, including a win at Fourth Level with 68.18 percent, and a third-place finish at PSG with 69 percent.
A clinic with Conrad Schumacher provided further refinement, focusing on relaxation and connection to improve Tonico’s topline and walk. The author noted a significant transformation in Tonico’s movement and overall demeanor.
The 2009 season marked Tonico’s breakthrough into Intermediaire I. He won Intermediaire I with a 67.2 percent and placed second at PSG with 69.7 percent. A highlight was performing in the prestigious Dixon Oval at Dressage at Devon, where he received enthusiastic applause. The season culminated in winning the Bengt Ljungquist Memorial Championships at Prix St. Georges with a 69.7 percent.
A Champion’s Future: Promise for Grand Prix
Tonico do Top’s journey from a parade horse in the Brazilian jungle to a successful dressage competitor is a compelling narrative of transformation. His journey highlights the importance of recognizing potential, the dedication required for retraining, and the profound impact of expert training and supportive ownership. With his continued development and talent, Tonico shows immense promise for future success at the Grand Prix level, a testament to his remarkable character and the unwavering commitment of his team.
