Sir Mark Todd issues apology after video shows him hitting horse with a branch

Sir Mark Todd, a licensed trainer and an Olympic gold medal-winning equestrian, has issued an apology after a video showing him hitting a horse with a branch emerged online.

The footage, in which he is seen striking the horse in an attempt to make it cross a water obstacle, has been widely shared on social media and been the subject of numerous outraged comments.

Todd, who is shown striking the reluctant horse on its rear ten times, said in a statement: "I wholeheartedly apologise to the horse and all involved for my actions in this video clip.

"One of the main things I preach is about establishing a mutual respect between horse and rider, and that patience and kindness is the best way to get results.

"I believe this is one of the main attributes, along with a great empathy with animals, that has enabled me to have a long and successful career in eventing. I am very disappointed in myself that I did not adhere to that in this case."

The BHA is looking into the incident and a spokesperson said on Sunday: "The footage seen this weekend of Sir Mark Todd hitting a horse with a branch has rightly caused anger and upset within the equestrian community and beyond.

"His behaviour, for which he has apologised, fell a long way short of the standards of care we expect of licensed individuals and that we know is provided to the overwhelming majority of horses in training in Britain every day. The BHA is looking into the incident."

Todd, 65, had a hugely successful riding career, winning Olympic gold in 1984 and 1988, and was knighted for services to equestrian sport in the 2013 New Year Honours.

He retired from eventing three years ago and took up training in Wiltshire, sending out 13 winners on the Flat in 2021.

Todd's top performer last season was the 109-rated Tasman Bay, who finished second to Alenquer in the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot.

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