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Mark Todd awarded his bronze medal at the London Olympics. - Source: NZOC -
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New Zealand's equine capital got the chance to welcome home the successful Olympic equestrian team today.
The bronze medal-winning three day eventing team paraded through the Waikato town of Cambridge, long-known as the home of New Zealand's horse industry as well as equestrian legends Mark Todd and Andrew Nicholson.
Nicholson, who competed in his seventh Olympic Games in London, told ONE News it was a nice reminder of the support they have back home.
"It's difficult, we spend all our time riding in Europe and the support we get from people over here is unbelievable," Nicholson said.
"I hope they realise how much I appreciate the support they give and you know even at (London equestrian venue) Greenwich Park you could see the New Zealand crowd and hear them and it's a big, big help."
Todd was also competing at his seventh games and the 56-year-old is yet to rule out turning out for the Rio De Janeiro Olympics in four year's time.
His top performance in the cross-country catapulted New Zealand into medal contention, but today he was focussing on celebrating the success in London.
"That (the celebration) was brilliant, (it was) great to see so many kids out here and so many people I've known from the past. It was very heart-warming to get such a warm reception," Todd said.
The locals have plenty to celebrate with the Waipa District able to claim connections to seven of New Zealand's Olympic medals from London.
Mayor Alan Livingston said sport was a very important part of life in the area.
"It's a very sporting area, racing, rugby, rowing and equestrian. It's very full on around here," Livingston told ONE News.
"We're extremely proud that our equestrian riders Mark Todd and Andrew Nicholson, our rowers our cyclists and our BMXer Sarah Walker have all done so well, (they are) great role models and fantastic for our district."
Cambridge will have an opportunity to welcome the rest of their Olympic heroes, with another parade planned for when they return in a few weeks.