SHIRTCLIFFE’S BACK IN THE SADDLE

IN an astonishing comeback, international para rider Amanda Shirtcliffe scored a novice double with New Princess at Bury Farm, Bucks, just 10 weeks after tripping over and breaking her leg.

“I did a Tiger Woods at the end of January and smashed my tibia and fibia,” explained Amanda, who

underwent repair with a surgical rod and screws. “I was told I couldn’t ride for six months, but I don’t use my stirrups anyway. I was back on just a few days before and we gaffer-taped my boot together for the show.

“Team GBR have supported me with rehab,” said Amanda, whose groom Louise Robson kept the horses ticking over while she was sidelined. “‘Princess Fiona’ was a bit lively, but the snow was my main worry. Riding in a full-on blizzard added to the challenge.”