By the EquiSearch.com Staff

Ronan Tynan © Merri Cyr

Jan. 27, 2006 -- On January 29 from 8-10 p.m. EST/PST, Animal Plant explored the remarkable bond that some of music's modern stars share with their horses in the world premiere of "Trail Mix" (check your local listings for reairings). Among the featured stars is world-renowned Irish tenor, Ronan Tynan.

At the age of 20, Tynan's legs were amputated below the knee after complications from an auto accident. He went on to win 18 gold medals and set 14 world records between 1981 and 1984 in the Paralympic Games in track and field and equestrian.

Tynan won both the John McCormack Cup for Tenor Voice and the BBC talent show Go For It less than one year after beginning the study of voice at the age of 33. He joined Anthony Kearns and John McDermott (later Finbar Wright) in 1998 to become The Irish Tenors. His first solo album was released in 2005.

Below is an exclusive interview with Tynan.

Ronan Tynan on horseback © Animal Planet

Question: How did you first get interested in horses?
Answer: There has never been a time when horses weren't part of my life. I was born into a family that had been breeding horses for three generations.

Q: How have horses impacted your career?
A: They gave me my first taste of freedom, and from then on, there was no stopping me.

Q: How or why do you think horse riding can help other people dealing with physical challenges?
A: It allows them to put their cares away and enjoy the moment with the animal.

Q: How do you find time for horses with a busy career and travelling?
A: I don't have much time for them, but I wish I had more. I try and make time for them whenever I can.

Q: What are some of your upcoming projects? Are horses part of any of the projects?
A: Horses are always part of something I do. They gave me the inspiration to do great things.

Q: What other hobbies do you enjoy?
A: I enjoy reading, walking and watching movies.