Rafael Soto
Alice (Year 8) introduces us to the famed Spanish horse rider and trainer, Rafael Soto.
The beginning of his career
Rafael Soto was born on the 14th of October 1957 and grew up in Jerez which is considered the heart of Spanish horse country. His father bought an equestrian centre in Palma de Mallorca, and it was there where he had his first considerable success becoming the Balearic Regional Champion in 1982.
Competition Success
Rafael Soto received an instructor’s qualification in 1987 and his major competition successes include a team silver and bronze medal in the 2002 world equestrian games in Jerez and a silver medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens on his most beloved horse, the great Invasor.
Horses
He started his career on the horse Flamenco and this was his main horse until he started riding Invasor a grey stallion, originally his reserve. Sadly, Invasor died in 2013 at the age of 24. Soto, after hearing the news, remarked that ‘he was my partner who has given me everything. I will never forget him.’ Invasor was one of the most talented dressage horses throughout history. He was the Spanish Grand Prix Champion in 1998, 1999 and 2000.
Training
After all his success’s Rafael Soto still competed occasionally but changed his focus to training new talents. He became known for his tough methods and his main rule, which was ‘There are only two types of dressage: the good and the bad.’ His coaching made many Spanish riders who they are today. Rafael Soto continued coaching, focusing on bringing up the new Spanish riders and passing on all the information into what made him the exclusive, world-famous equestrian he is today.
Retirement
On reaching his 65th birthday in 2022, Rafael Soto retired from his elite job as head trainer of The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and handed his legacy over to his son.
Rafael Soto was a key equestrian figure in Spanish history, not only was he a talented, award-winning rider, he was also an exceptional trainer and will always be remembered for his skills, talent, intelligence, and passion for teaching other riders.