Laura Tomlinson MBE, an Olympic gold medalist and celebrated German-British dressage rider, launched her professional career with significant achievements. In 2005, she became the youngest British dressage champion, riding Douglas Dorsey. Her progression continued with her Olympic debut at the 2008 Olympic Games, where, partnered with Mistral Højris, she achieved an 18th place finish in the Individual Grand Prix Special and contributed to a 6th place team finish. That same year, Tomlinson earned the prestigious title of British Dressage’s Rider of the Year, affirming her rising status in the competitive equestrian world.
Riding Mistral Højris, under her maiden name Laura Bechtolsheimer, she was a crucial member of the Great Britain team, alongside Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin. This trio made history by securing the country’s first-ever Olympic team gold medal in dressage, a landmark achievement for British equestrianism. Tomlinson further distinguished herself, earning an individual bronze medal with her compelling freestyle routine, set to music from The Lion King. In profound recognition of her monumental contributions to equestrianism and historic Olympic success, Laura Tomlinson was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the distinguished 2013 New Year Honours.
Following these extraordinary achievements, Tomlinson continued to demonstrate her competitive spirit and enduring talent. In 2016, she showcased her abilities riding Rosalie B at the prestigious Olympia London International Horse Show, an appearance preceded by a strong performance earlier that year at the German CDI Oldenburg, underscoring her ongoing commitment and excellence in dressage.