Kate Staples, the celebrated former pole vaulter who starred as Zodiac in the iconic 1990s television series Gladiators, has disclosed that the Princess Royal holds a deep fascination for the show. This revelation came during a ceremony at Windsor Castle where Staples was honoured with an MBE.
Royal Interest in Gladiators
Speaking to the Press Association after receiving her Member of The Most Excellent Order Of The British Empire award from Princess Anne, Staples shared that the royal had watched Gladiators and was captivated by her dual career as an athlete and television personality. "She had watched Gladiators, and she said to me: 'Oh, my goodness, so you'd qualified for the Olympics whilst you were on Gladiators?'" Staples recounted. "And I said: 'Yes.' Then I had accidents, I didn't go to the Olympics – she was fascinated by it all, which was lovely."
Background in Sport and Injury
Princess Anne demonstrated a keen awareness of Staples' sporting achievements, including her groundbreaking pole vaulting career. In 1992, Staples became the first British woman to vault over three metres, setting 29 British and Commonwealth records. However, her Olympic aspirations were derailed by a severe injury sustained on Gladiators. "I broke my neck on Gladiators and I had a big recovery after that, and she knew about that," Staples noted, referring to a fall during a Pole-Axe event that fractured her neck in two places and ended her competitive career.
Discussion on Grassroots Sport
The conversation between Staples and the Princess Royal also touched on the importance of engaging children in sports. As a former Olympian who competed in equestrian events at the 1976 Montreal Games and a current British member of the International Olympic Committee, Anne emphasised this priority. Her daughter, Zara, further underscores the family's sporting legacy, having won a silver medal in equestrian team eventing at the London 2012 Olympics.
"She was saying how important that was to get children active, it was a really lovely conversation," Staples said. This aligns with her current work through Athletes For All, a Community Interest Company (CIC) she founded to promote grassroots athletics. The initiative collaborates with schools, councils, and local communities to utilise underused tracks and create safe, communal spaces for youth sports.
Expanding Community Initiatives
Staples detailed the expansion of her efforts, stating, "We are getting more children active, working with schools, councils and on the tracks, and, with our new Community Interest Company (CIC) Athletes For All, we are looking to raise money to include disadvantaged children." She announced the opening of four new academies this year, aiming to transform empty tracks into vibrant community hubs. "They sit there empty, and so now, not only is it a safe space, but it is a really lovely community for everybody to come and parents to meet each other."
This MBE ceremony not only honoured Staples' contributions to sport and entertainment but also highlighted the enduring appeal of Gladiators and the royal family's support for athletic endeavours at all levels.
