Zara Phillips is well-accustomed to picking up speed when she's galloping along on her favourite mount. The horse-mad royal had to break into a run herself on Wednesday afternoon, though, as she guided Ardfield Magic Star through a veterinary inspection at the Bramham Park trials.
Her rugby-playing boyfriend Mike Tindall was on hand to provide moral support as the 25-year-old competed in the Yorkshire event. And judging by the smile on her face as she chatted to her hunky beau afterwards, she was more than happy to have her leading man close by.
When it comes to perfecting her riding skills, however, Zara need only call on one of her parents, both of whom have competed in the Olympics. "I train with my dad so he is very much part of the programme," revealed the pretty blonde. "Mum is still very interested but she is very busy."
The support of her family is obviously having the right effect, as the Princess Royal's daughter was recently named European Eventing champion. She is also hotly tipped to follow in her parents' illustrious footsteps by representing Britain at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
