Zara Tindall pays tribute to Tiggy Hancock after teen rider’s tragic death

12/10/2021

Zara Tindall joined racing fans by paying tribute to a teenage rider at Cheltenham.

The Queen 's granddaughter attended day one of the track's International Meeting, where racegoers fondly remembered 15-year-old Tiggy Hancock.

The teenager died following a riding accident in Dublin in June and Friday's fixture saw the launch of Tiggy’s Trust.

The foundation will support young riders and dozens wore the teenager's favourite colour, yellow, to mark the occasion.

Zara had the Trust's yellow ribbon badge attached to her black and white houndstooth coat, as she chatted to friends at the event.

Her outing came shortly after she went to a carol concert hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Westminister Abbey with husband Mike.

It highlighted the work of individuals and organisations across the UK who have supported their communities throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Princess Eugenie, the Countess of Wessex, Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi were among the congregation.

Wearing another stylish coat, Zara watched the Tiggys Trust Novices' Limited Handicap Chase at the races, won by the 2-1 favourite Corach Rambler with all riders sporting yellow breeches.

Zara looked in good spirits for the day, enhancing her smart outfit with a green roll-neck top, white circle earrings and black gloves.

More than 700 guests were invited to the Trust's gathering in Gloucestershire, including 20-times champion jockey, Sir AP McCoy, eventing Olympian Gold medallist Laura Collett and multiple Irish champion rider Ruby Walsh.

Tiggy's family said: “We are delighted to be welcomed to Cheltenham Racecourse to launch Tiggy’s Trust in memory of our beloved daughter and sister.

"Tiggy touched the lives of so many in her short life – her golden heart, infectious fun personality and cheeky smile was extended to all who knew her.

"Despite her young age she had the capacity to reach out and offer positivity to those around her, both young and old, and through the Trust we hope to continue that legacy.”

Zara was at the same racing meet in 2019 when she wrapped up from the cold in a poncho-style jacket.

The mum-of-three has owned, bred and pre-trained racehorses – and was appointed a non-executive director at Cheltenham by its owners The Jockey Club two years ago.

The sun was shining as the action on the track began and the feature contest, the Betfair Handicap Chase, saw grey horses finish first and second.

Commodore, sent off at 7-1 in the betting, led home Irish raider Mister Fogpatches, with Charlie Deutsch taking the reins on the winner.

The jockey was thrilled by the spin on the bold jumper, who few the last to score with 15 lengths in hand.

“He’s always been a brilliant jumper and he’s a good front-runner. We got into a lovely rhythm," he said.

Zara's friend Martin Keighley, who has trained horses for her and Princess Anne in the past, sought a repeat victory over the cross country course with Back On The Lash.

But it was not to be as Diesel D'Allier (6-1) reversed form with that rival – and poked his nose in front of Potters Corner in a thrilling finish to the Glenfarclas Crystal Cup.

“It’s just immense emotion – great for the team and the lovely owners,” said trainer Richard Bandey.

Robbie Dunne, banned for 18 months for bullying fellow jockey Bryony Frost, was not allowed to take his ride on Pretty Little Liar.

He was seen watching the CF Roberts Electrical & Mechanical Services Mares' Handicap Chase in the grandstand with friends.

On Saturday, Midnight Shadow aims to become just the fourth horse to complete the Paddy Power and Racing Post Gold Cup double in the feature race.

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