Queen Elizabeth has been honored for many things, but her most recent might be her most personal — her love of horses.
The beloved monarch, 88, was presented on Wednesday with the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Lifetime Achievement award, the first of its kind, for her dedication to the sport. She got her first riding lesson at age 3, which means she has been riding horses for 85 of her 88 years.
The Queen, who was beaming throughout the private ceremony at Buckingham Palace, was called a "true horsewoman" with an "extraordinary bond" with horses.
Present with pride was the royal's husband, Prince Philip, who has accompanied Elizabeth on plenty of horse rides, which have not slowed in her elder years.
"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth is a life-long lover of horses who has inspired millions around the world," said FEI President Princess Haya of Jordan. "She is a true horsewoman, who still rides whenever state business allows, and her knowledge of breeding and bloodlines is incredible... I can't think of anyone more fitting to receive this very special FEI award."
Her Majesty has a long history of riding: she had her first riding lesson at just three years old and was presented with her first pony, a Shetland mare named Peggy, by her grandfather King George V on her fourth birthday.
