Anna Ross-Davies decided to go for “death or glory” in her first championship grand prix freestyle at the 2007 European Championships in Turin, Italy, 30 August-2 September, and it paid off handsomely as she scored 71.95% for 10^th place.

 

Anna was initially selected as reserve and only found out she would be part of the team less than two weeks before the show. She was the only Brit to qualify for the freestyle.

 

She said: “My aim when I came here was to survive and not let the team down. The selectors took a risk choosing me, so I was pleased not to disappoint them. When I got through to the freestyle, I thought I might never get to do this again, so I would rather go for it and bomb. It is like a dream and I keep wondering when I’m going to wake up.

 

“The British supporters have been amazing. They rivalled the Dutch, especially with their cheering, and it made all the difference. When the bell rang, I headed towards “A” and saw all these Union Jacks.”

 

Anna, who trains with top German rider Ulla Salzgeber, was riding Donald McTaggart’s Liebling II, a 10-year-old gelding by Lorentin I, who only started competing at international grand prix level earlier this year.

 

“He is the most wonderful horse,” said Anna, who was just heading off to muck out his stable before making the journey home.

 

For the full results, click www.fise.it.