Zara Phillips' daughter Mia may only be seven months old, but her athletic mum is already thinking about how she will be raised with a sporting background in mind. The Olympic-winning equestrian and experienced sailor, who is married to rugby star Mike Tindall, was speaking at a charity sailing race on Thursday. "We used to sail as kids," said Zara, as she and her husband prepared to compete in Cowes Week on the Isle of Wight. "It's nice to get back on the water and have some fun."
Sporty Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall compete in a charity sailing race on the Isle of Wight
"We have always had sport in our lives and through our childhood," she said. "I think that really is important in every child's life to have that opportunity. I think we have got it off our parents and hopefully we can pass that on to Mia." Mike, who retired his England captain position in July, added, "Mia will be whatever she wants to be, we will support that."
Prince George's first meeting with Mia was 'carnage,' says MikeWhile Zara has participated in the Artemis Challenge – a 50-mile race around the island – "three or four times before", sailing is very much a rarity for Mike who has only really taken to the water competitively when he was away with the England team in Australia and New Zealand.
Zara and Mike leave baby Mia at home for date night
Mike Tindall: "Mia will be whatever she wants to be, we will support that"
The sporty couple will race against experienced sailors Yasmin and Simon Le Bon with the hope of scooping the £10,000 cash prize, which will be donated to a charity of their choice. Zara and Mike are on board the Artemis Ocean Racing II, skippered by solo sailing big gun Brian Thompson, while the Le Bons are on Azzam, headed by double Olympic silver medallist Ian Walker. Before the royal duo set off for the race, Zara and Mike were spotted enjoying a tender moment as they stood and embraced at the bow of the boat. Zara looked in her element, dressed in grey waterproofs with her blonde hair scooped up into a ponytail, while her husband caught the rays in a navy T-shirt and beige shorts.
