Tim Price Wins 2nd at Badminton with Broken Shoulder

Three weeks after breaking his shoulder in an electric bike accident, New Zealand equestrian Tim Price proved that grit and partnership can overcome almost anything.

The world No. 2 rider and his horse Falco claimed second place at the Badminton Horse Trials, one of equestrian sport's most demanding competitions. Price wore a support suit and strapping to manage the pain throughout the prestigious five-star event in the United Kingdom.

Price credited his success to his "old friend" Falco, a horse he's partnered with for a decade. "If it had been another horse, it would probably not have been such a doable proposition," he said.

The pair delivered one of only two perfect final showjumping rounds, finishing clear and inside the time limit. Their flawless performance moved them up from 10th place after the opening dressage phase to the podium, finishing with 33.9 penalty points.

Falco, who carried Price to sixth place at the Paris Olympic Games, was competing at Badminton for the first time. Price described the horse as having "all about head and heart" and noted the rare feeling of being able to relax during such a high-pressure showjumping round.

Why This Inspires

This story shows the power of trust between athlete and animal. Price's decade-long partnership with Falco created a bond strong enough that the horse could compensate for his rider's injury, allowing them to compete at the highest level.

Fellow New Zealander Tayla Mason also shined, climbing from 40th place after dressage to finish sixth. She credited her mentor, Sir Mark Todd, with elevating her riding to new heights.

Together, Price and Falco proved that sometimes the greatest victories come from showing up even when conditions aren't perfect.