The story of Mark Todd, a respected New Zealand rider, extends far beyond his illustrious achievements in the sporting arena. With two Olympic golds and one bronze, Todd not only marked his presence in the annals of sports history, but also earned the honor of being named Rider of the 20th Century by the International Equestrian Federation.
However, beyond the medals and accolades, there is a story that is less often told – that of his family, including his brother and sister. Together, the Todd siblings paint a colorful picture of diverse interests and commitments, each carving their own paths while sharing the family’s love of riding.
Todd, Mark’s brother, ventured into the world of acting and gained a measure of fame by starring alongside famous stars such as Elizabeth Taylor in the 1976 film Bluebird. His television appearance in the pilot for “Kelly’s Kids,” a spin-off of “The Brady Bunch,” is another high point in his career, despite the show not progressing to full production.
Theresa, sister of the equestrian champion, has kept a lower profile but is no less successful on the equestrian circuit. Horse trainer and breeder, runs a stud farm in New Zealand with her husband. Her involvement in the equestrian community extends to competing at national levels in eventing and show jumping, marking her contribution to a sport that runs deep in the family.
The sibling bond is tight, with Mark often returning to New Zealand to spend time with his sibling. He credits them for their unwavering support, recognizing their role in fostering his lifelong passion for horses. Their shared story enriches Mark Todd’s public persona, revealing the threads of family ties that sustain him.
In terms of background, Mark Todd was born to parents Paul and Karen Lookinland on March 1, 1956 in the city of Cambridge, New Zealand. His parents, both educators, instilled in him the values he holds dear. Mark remembered his father, affectionately known as ‘Toddy’, with warmth and respect, emphasizing his father’s attributes of kindness, generosity and honesty.
Todd’s ethnicity is primarily European with traces of Maori heritage through his mother’s line. His paternal grandfather’s role as administrator at an LDS hospital in Utah points to Mormon ancestral ties. Raised in the pastoral beauty of rural New Zealand, Todd’s affinity for horses was awakened at an early age. At first he wanted to become a jockey, but his physical growth directed him towards show jumping and eventually towards eventing, where he excelled and achieved international fame.
Todd’s illustrious career includes six Olympic appearances, representing New Zealand with distinction. His victories at prestigious competitions such as the Badminton Horse Trials and the Burghley Horse Trials further cemented his legacy. In 2019, he retired from competition, but continues to nurture the next generation of riders through coaching and mentoring.
As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the story of Mark Todd is not only a story of personal triumph, but also of a family deeply intertwined with the world of equestrian sports, with each member supporting and celebrating the successes of the others.