The Equestrian’s Inner Life, a podcast hosted by Pernille Hogg, explores the unseen journey of riders. Launched in October 2025 with an episode featuring six-time Olympian Mary Hanna, followed by chats with Brett Parbery, classical master Rafael Soto, and American Olympian Steffen Peters among others, it delves into connection, resilience, and the transformative bond between horse and human.
Ep.11. Seeing dressage through the eye of a professional judge
Few people have witnessed the evolution of modern dressage as closely as Leif Törnblad. A five-star international judge, lifelong horseman, and rider himself, he brings a rare blend of experience, clarity, and empathy to the sport.
In this episode, Törnblad reflects on decades spent judging at the highest level — including Olympic Games and World Championships — offering a unique perspective from “C”. He discusses how judging has evolved, what defines true quality in a performance, and why harmony, correctness, and feel remain the timeless pillars of dressage.
The conversation also touches on his life alongside Anne-Grethe Törnblad, Olympic medallist and rider of the legendary Marzog, and the insights gained from a lifetime devoted to the art of riding.
A return to what matters
Over decades of judging at the highest level, Törnblad has seen dressage shift through different phases — from classical foundations, through periods of change, and now toward a renewed focus on fundamentals.
“There was a time,” he reflects, “where everything was about correctness — soft hands, the horse in front of the vertical, and truly working from behind. The training was simple in a way, but very clear.”
As breeding and expression evolved, horses became more spectacular — but, as he acknowledges, something was at times lost.
“We accepted a little bit too much… more front leg, more show over substance, sometimes less engagement from behind.”
What stands out most is not criticism, but accountability.
“I was part of that judging. So I cannot blame anyone more than myself.”
Today, however, he sees a positive shift.
“When I look at the sport now, I feel we are coming back again to good riding. Horses look more natural. The judging is adapting. There is a focus again on correctness.”
At its core, dressage remains something far simpler than results or technique.
“You cannot force a horse in the long run. Dressage is not submission… it is cooperation between horse and rider.”
And for Törnblad, the greatest moments are not defined by medals.
“The greatest success I ever had was teaching a young horse to walk through water. That trust — that was everything.”
Because in dressage, as in life, it is not about control — it is about connection.
Available on all major platforms (YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify); search ‘The Equestrian’s Inner Life’.
