The bond between humans and horses is a connection as ancient as time itself. Throughout the ages, these creatures have stood as steadfast companions to mankind, their loyal presence gracing the pages of history and leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. Among these horses, only a few attain a remarkable history in the equestrian world with the help of their riders. One such rider was Lars Sederholm.

The equestrian world bids farewell to a true icon as Lars Sederholm, one of the 20th century’s most remarkable horsemen, passed away on October 12. Though born in Ostersund, northern Sweden, his enduring legacy stretched far beyond his birthplace, reaching worldwide recognition through his visionary project, the Waterstock House Training Centre, and his tireless efforts in mentoring some of the globe’s most accomplished riders from the 1960s through the early 2000s.

From Sweden to international fame

Lars Sederholm passed away at the age of 87. Hailing from a non-equestrian background, cultivated his deep-seated passion for horses at a young age. He frequently found himself at a local abattoir, offering comfort and sustenance to horses teetering on the brink of a grim fate. Following his service in the Swedish cavalry, he embarked on his journey as a groom under the guidance of the renowned two-time Olympic gold medalist, Henri St Cyr. Through Henri’s rigorous training methods, Sederholm honed his profound understanding of classical horsemanship, a cornerstone of his remarkable career.

Sederholm’s path eventually led him to collaborate with Joan Gold, a prominent British dressage rider of her era. It was during this period that he crossed paths with his future wife, Diana Lloyd. It was on one of their early outings together when Sederholm pointed at an imposing country house with a stable yard and expressed his aspiration: “One day, I will own a house like that and create a sanctuary where young riders from around the world can immerse themselves in the quintessential British equestrian experience.” Remarkably, this dream came to fruition when Diana’s family acquired the neglected Waterstock House. Together, they embarked on the journey to establish their transformative equestrian training centre.

The mentor of Equestrian Champions

Lars Sederholm, a celebrated rider turned exceptional trainer, achieved the Tony Collins Memorial Trophy three times as the leading horse-trials rider before transitioning into full-time training in 1966. His Waterstock House Training Centre became a revered destination for equestrian luminaries, including legends like Yogi Breisner, David O’Connor, and Michael Whitaker. Sederholm’s influence extended globally as he served as an Olympic team trainer for various nations. For 35 years, Waterstock House fulfilled its vision, welcoming numerous students into the world of equestrian excellence. After its sale in 1997, he spearheaded the accredited coach program for the British Show Jumping Association.

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Lars Sederholm’s enduring legacy, marked by his indomitable spirit and passion for nurturing horses, lives on through those privileged to have learned from him. He leaves behind a lasting impact on the equestrian world, emphasizing respect for a horse’s natural abilities and the importance of balance, forward movement, and rhythm. Survived by his wife Diana, daughters Tina, Annalisa, and Annika, and two cherished grandchildren, Lars Sederholm’s remarkable journey will be celebrated at North Oxfordshire Crematorium and Memorial Park on Tuesday, November 21.

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