News
The Duchess attends the London International Horse Show
19th December 2005
The Duchess of Cornwall attended the last evening of the London International Horse Show.
The seven-day equestrian extravaganza at Olympia in West London has seen some of the world's top riders competing in dressage and show jumping. The final evening of the show combined stunning displays of horsemanship with festive fun.
Her Royal Highness enjoyed a spectacular display from the elite French Presidential Guard, La Garde Republicaine.
The 12 French riders, from what is believed to be the world's biggest working equestrian guard with 528 horses, performed their famous choreographed routine, Reprise Des Douze.
This was followed by a salute to The Duchess who was in the President's Box.
An energetic performance of the Musical Ride by the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment followed, finished with another salute.
There was plenty of entertainment on offer, including a fun Shetland Pony Grand National which had children riders dressed in racing silks and ponies festively decorated with tinsel.
The Duchess presented the winner's cup to Robert Smith, who triumphed in the Links of London Grand Prix, before a pantomime ended the evening's entertainment.
Afterwards Her Royal Highness, who is a keen horsewoman, went backstage to meet the stars of the show including the young riders of the Shetland Ponies, the showjumpers, and equestrians from all over the world.
Feeding the odd mint to the horses of the Household Cavalry, she congratulated the riders on their performance.
Captain Richard Moger said: “The Duchess is obviously very interested in horses. Hopefully she had an enjoyable night.
“It's a pleasure to be able to bring The Duchess around. She was keen to meet the men and it makes their evening to be able to meet her.”