Phillips backed to return strongly

Great Britain equestrian chief Yogi Breisner believes Zara Phillips still has her best days of competition ahead of her despite her announcement that she is taking a break from the sport.

The Olympic silver medallist, who is expecting her first child with husband Mike Tindall, indicated this week she would not ride again until after the birth early next year.

Phillips' decision means she will miss the European Championships in Sweden in August but is scheduled to return at next year's Badminton Trials followed by the World Equestrian Games in France.

GB performance manager Breisner told Press Association Sport: "I am absolutely delighted for Zara and Mike and it is excellent news that she is planning to return in plenty of time for the selection process for the World Equestrian Games.

"Many riders including Zara's mother the Princess Royal have made a successful return after having children. There is no reason why Zara should not be able to return right on top of her form."

Phillips had initially indicated her desire to continue riding through her pregnancy. Great Britain team-mate Mary King famously won the European title in 1995 when she was five-and-a-half months pregnant.