Zara Phillips and Toytown return to Blenheim

Zara Phillips and Toytown have made a special return to Blenheim Palace, 10 years after they won double gold there at the European Championships.

Very emotional

The pair proudly led the ‘parade of champions’ around the main arena, as part of Blenheim’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

“It’s a massive thrill and obviously very emotional to have him back here, where we won double gold,” said Zara. “I’m just happy to have him here.”

Loves a crowd

The 22-year-old chestnut gelding, who is spending his retirement at Zara’s Gloucestershire home, looked the picture of health – and ready for another run around the cross-country.

“He’s done really well in retirement, he looks so well and he feels amazing,” said Zara. “He just loves this kind of thing, it’s what he lived for. That’s why he did so well at championship level – he loves a crowd. It’s great to have him out.”

Following their double gold in the Europeans the pair went on to become World Champions in 2006 at Aachen.

Special horse

“You’re very lucky if you get horse like this to come along once in your career,” said Zara. “He was such a special horse and created my whole career in eventing. I can’t thank him enough – he taught me everything I know.

“When you’ve got connection with a horse like this and they pull out everything for you, it’s very special. That’s why we do it.”