Mia’s delight as
IT WAS a family day out for Zara Phillips yesterday as she competed in a dressage event with her loyal fan club supporting her from the sidelines.
Husband Mike Tindall and their daughter Mia, two, watched as she took part in day two of the Badminton Horse Trials.
Zara, 31, was dressed suitably smartly in her tailored show jacket and top hat while Mia held on tight to her cuddly toy – and after it was all over Mike gave his wife a congratulatory kiss.
Former world champion Zara posted a score of 48 on her horse High Kingdom which put her 26th on the leader board.
Wriggled
High Kingdom missed almost all of last season after a freak stable accident at an event in America.
As he has not competed at a top- level event since 2014, he still needs to qualify to be considered for Britain’s team for the Rio Olympics this summer.
But followers of the sport have high hopes for the Queen’s granddaughter and her steed if they deliver their usual performance in the cross- country at the Gloucestershire event today.
Zara said: “He hasn’t been in a proper arena for a year, so I am pleased with him. Some of his work was really good. There are a lot of big fences out there and plenty to do, which is what we want. The ground is great. He is a good jumper and he loves his cross- country.”
While Zara was battling for her Olympic place, former rugby star Mike had a challenge of his own on his hands as daughter Mia wriggled around in his arms.
At one point he lifted her on to his shoulders to give her a better view and she laughed delightedly and patted his head.