Andreas Helgstrand’s operating methods became apparent.
Denmark’s Andreas Helgstrand has won prestigious medals. EPA / AOP
Dressage rider Andreas Helgstrand has been caught in the middle of an uproar.
Danish TV2 published the documentary Operation X: The Secrets of the Horse Billionaire, which reveals the shocking truth about the rider’s actions.
A TV2 reporter worked at the stable run by Helgstrand for a month and filmed the treatment of the horses with his hidden camera.
The documentary shows repeated and systematic use of force towards horses. The documentary tells how horses were beaten with whips and spurs. Spurs are metal accessories that riders wear on their boots.
Director of the Animal Protection Association Yvonne Johansen shocked after seeing the documentary. The association said that it had filed a criminal complaint about the case.
– The horses were treated in a worrying way, which goes against all responsible training and the well-being of the horse, Johansen said according to the Danish BT.
Marks caused by blows have been found on the horses and the animal welfare association believes that the stable managed by Helgstrand has tried to cover up the scars.
– It seems that the team has a sick and criminal culture, for which the management is responsible. They know very well that this is completely wrong, Johansen said.
– What has happened in the team is completely unforgivable.
Helgstrand has tried several times to prevent the publication of the document. He commented matter in June to the Danish BT.
– This is incredibly offensive, that my privacy and that of my employees have been violated in order to make an exciting documentary.
As the title of the documentary suggests, Helgstrand has made millions of euros with his company Helgstrand Dressage. In Danish crowns, he is a billionaire.
In his career, Helgstrand has won Olympic bronze in dressage, as well as World Championship silver and World Championship bronze.