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‘I woke up in agony’: talented rider battles rare condition to take grand prix victory *H&H Plus*

Polly Bryan Polly Bryan

A young rider recovered from a rare condition to take grand prix victory at the Keysoe High Profile Show over the weekend (3-6 December), while international prospects excelled at the Bedfordshire venue

It has been a tough year for everybody, but 2020 has thrown extra challenges at British-based Greek rider Theodora Livanos. The 19-year-old was diagnosed with osteomyelitis in her leg in February, undergoing major surgery and months of rehab. But a win in the grand prix here riding the 13-year-old British Hanoverian gelding Robinvale (pictured) ensured that she finished the year on a bright note.

“I had a great test considering we haven’t been out very much this season. We were a bit ring-rusty, but only had a few little blips,” said Theodora, who posted 70.8%, more than 5% higher than on her return to the arena at Keysoe CDI in October.

“Back in February, I woke up one day in agony. I thought it would be something muscular, so when I got the diagnosis it was a shock as osteomyelitis is rare. I had surgery to remove the infected bone and it has been a long recovery process, with a lot of physio to regain my strength.”

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