Ann Romney 'thrilled to death' by horse's test

Rafalca
Jan Ebeling of the United States riding Rafalca competes in the Dressage Grand Prix on Day 6 of the London 2012 Olympic Games at Greenwich Park on August 2, 2012 in London, England.
Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Ann Romney, the wife of the U.S. Republican presidential candidate, says she was "thrilled do death" by the performance her horse Rafalca turned in at the Olympics dressage competition.

Romney, who is part-owner of Rafalca, tells The Associated Press: "She was consistent and elegant. She did not disappoint. She thrilled me to death."

The 15-year-old, German-bred mare has been the source of political jokes and Democratic ads questioning how the Republican presidential candidate can presume to know the problems of ordinary Americans when he inhabits the rarefied world of dressage.

Ann Romney watched Rafalca and rider Jan Ebeling bring in a score of 70.213 Thursday. She rides as part of her therapy for multiple sclerosis.

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.