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The Duchess of Cornwall and Zara Phillips bond over their 'love' of horses at Olympic soiree

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London's 2012 Olympics are a pleasant – if increasingly distant – memory for the nation. However, the Duchess of Cornwall is keen to continue celebrating the Games, and threw a reception at Clarence House to honour niece Zara Phillips and the rest of the medal-winning equestrian squad. Camilla was the perfect choice to host the event marking last summer's triumphs. The royal is patron of The British Equestrian Federation, loves riding and has been known to breed horses herself.

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During the soiree, Zara told gathered journalists how their shared equestrian passion has established a solid bond between the pair. "Obviously horses are part of our family and horses have been a part of her family as well," she said. "It is something that she loves and it is very easy when you have the same interests." 

That common ground was evident as Zara and the Duchess relived London 2012 over a chilled glass of champagne. There was also a chance to catch up with Zara's teammates, Tina Cook, William Fox-Pitt, Mary King and Nicola Wilson. Last year, the group were flying the flag for Britain in Eventing – an equestrian discipline that combines dressage, cross country and show jumping. They all galloped off with a silver medal for their collective effort in the sport. Although not present for that magic moment, Prince Charles' wife was often in attendance at the Greenwich Park Arena as her young relative and her fellow athletes worked towards second place on the podium.