Kaley Cuoco Back In The Saddle: ‘Big Bang Theory’ Star Gets Her Show Jumping Groove On
Kaley Cuoco is not your typical blonde starlet. The Big Bang Theory actress is a talented athlete, especially when paired with an impressive equine companion. A few short years after nearly losing her foot in a serious riding accident, Kaley showed off her show jumping chops on Thursday at a local event in Los Angeles.
Cuoco hit the course looking spectacular in an immaculate rider’s outfit, complete with knee-high boots and helmet that hid her newly-chopped blonde locks. It was in 2010 that she was trampled by a panicked horse during a riding lesson, and doctors considered amputation. Since that time her bones have healed, with the help of two surgeries and metal bars placed in her foot.
Despite the trauma of the event, Kaley did not let it interfere with her love of animals. US Magazine reported on Cuoco’s quip to Craig Ferguson in November 2013 about her pending New Year’s Eve nuptials to recent love, tennis star Ryan Sweeting: “I might ride in on one of my horses… I secretly kinda want to do that. I’m a big animal freak. I’d rather the animals be there than real people.” Indeed, the star has three beloved dogs and frequently speaks out about animal rights.
So committed is she, that in January Cuoco supported Bachelor contestant Kelly Travis by tweeting:
#TheBachelor girl w dog, I love you. I would do the same thing.
— Kaley Cuoco Sweeting (@KaleyCuoco) January 7, 2014
Thursday’s event was not the first time Cuoco has been back in the saddle since her accident. She was photographed in an October 2013 Santa Barbara competition, days after her then-fiance Sweeting had proposed. Sweeting and Cuoco have more in common than mere affection: both name tennis as their favorite sport. Hitting the court since the age of 3, Kaley once saw Wimbledon in her sights and considered becoming a professional.
Tennis took a backseat to acting, as Cuoco earned early success as a model and performer. Her breakthrough was playing John Ritter’s daughter in the popular sitcom 8 Simple Rules. Kaley furthered her renown by landing the role of Penny in The Big Bang Theory in 2007.
According to the Daily Mail, on Thursday Cuoco did not compete with her horse Thor. The switch-up came as a surprise, since only a week ago Cuoco posted an Instagram video of the pair taking a few jumps. She proudly shared a pic of Thor lounging for a nap in the stables. But if past history is any indication, Kaley Cuoco has enough determination to get her and Thor back on the course soon.
[Image Courtesy of Equestrian Tales]
