Endel Ots and Agastrophos II during their winning ride. (Photo: Joanna Jodko Photography)

In his signature style of bringing young horses along and moving them up when the time is right, Endel Ots rode 5-year-old Agastrophos II to a high score win in 1st Level, Test 3 during the 2018 Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge. Riding on both days of the show, which was held on Oct 20-21st, the pair scored a 71.912 on each ride, which was enough to clinch the high score ribbon on Saturday.

The big 17.1 hh gelding, whose barn name is A.J., was a sight to see in the ring under Ots’ guidance. Owned and bred by Taunia and Dave Reed of Virginia Beach, VA, this horse is quickly winning his way into Ots’ heart. “I’ve been training with him for about a year – taking it slow and getting him used to everything,” he describes. “His temperament is super. He has a really great canter and a very good trot.”

Ots goes on to say that he doesn’t want to rush anything with the big chestnut. “We might do 6 year olds next year. We’ll see how he progresses over this winter season, and maybe show him later season in the summertime. It will be a lot of fun to see how he progresses!” he adds.

Ots admits that he has a soft spot for A.J. because he rode his sire, Agastrophos (by Briar x Nocturne) to become the Reserve Champion in the 2012 USDF Developing Horse Grand Prix Championships. In fact, Ots comments that the young horse has much better gaits than his sire.

Ots is also busy preparing 9-year-old mare, Rosenschon, for Developing Grand Prix this season. He’s planning to get her into the show ring, and she promises to be one to keep an eye out for. And, of course, Ots continues to showcase his superstar, Lucky Strike. The pair has set their sights on trying out for the upcoming Pan American Games. Ots explains that his recent success with all his horses is possible because of his loyal sponsors. He says he is very thankful to Custom Saddlery, DSB Boots and Choice of Champions for being a part of the team.

Originally from De Pere, Wisconsin, Ots, who now calls Wellington, Florida home, has been competing since a young age and has been enjoying international victories for the past several years. Known for his talent and ability to give a leg-up to younger riders, and bringing along impressive sales horses.

To learn more about Endel Ots or to inquire about becoming part of the Ots team, please call (920) 562-5714, email endelots@gmail.com or visit www.EndelOtsDressage.com.