Princess Anne’s other horse riding accidents

Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, has had a remarkable equestrian career marked by both triumphs and challenges. Known for her resilience and dedication to the sport, she has faced numerous horse-riding accidents, some of which have been quite serious.

One of the most notable incidents occurred in 1976 during the European Eventing Championships. While competing, Anne was thrown from her horse and suffered a concussion. Despite the severity of the fall, she showed her characteristic determination by returning to the sport as soon as she recovered​​. This incident is just one example of her many falls and injuries over the years, illustrating her commitment to and passion for equestrianism.

Anne’s equestrian achievements are substantial. She won a gold medal at the European Eventing Championships in 1971, riding her horse Doublet. This victory was a significant milestone in her career and highlighted her skill and competitive spirit. She also competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, although she did not medal there​. Her Olympic participation was notable, as it made her one of the few royals to compete at such a high level in sports.

Her career wasn’t limited to competing; she also contributed significantly to the equestrian community. From 1986 to 1994, Princess Anne served as the president of the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), the international governing body of equestrian sports. In this role, she helped shape policies and promote the sport worldwide​.

Throughout her life, Anne has been known for her fortitude and willingness to take risks. Her numerous accidents, including a serious fall that left her unconscious and unable to remember the incident, have done little to dampen her enthusiasm for riding. She has continued to participate in events and even rides occasionally today, well into her 70s​.

Princess Anne’s dedication to equestrianism has also influenced her family. Her daughter, Zara Tindall, followed in her footsteps, becoming an accomplished equestrian in her own right. Zara competed for Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics, winning a silver medal in team eventing. Anne had the honor of presenting the medal to her daughter, a moment that highlighted their shared passion for the sport​.

Despite the dangers associated with horse riding, Anne’s passion and commitment to the sport have remained unwavering. Her legacy in the equestrian world is marked not only by her competitive successes but also by her contributions to the sport’s governance and her role in inspiring future generations of riders.