New Zealand's Andrew Nicholson, one of the world's leading three-day event riders, has undergone neck surgery, it was announced Tuesday, after suffering a fall competing in England.

The 54-year-old, a former world number one who has competed in six Olympic Games, fell from Cillnabradden Evo at the final fence on the British Open cross-country course at Gatcombe Park in Gloucestershire last weekend

Nicholson, based in the nearby English county of Wiltshire, was initially taken to hospital in Swindon, but then transferred to Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital, where he continues to be treated.

A statement regarding the progress of his condition was released on behalf of the Nicholson family on Tuesday.

"Andrew Nicholson underwent surgery yesterday (Monday) to repair the injury to his neck," it said.

"The surgery went well and his condition is stable. Andrew is comfortable and has full range of movement.

"His family would like to thank the many well-wishers."

Nicholson's career has seen him become one of the most successful riders in eventing history.

He has helped New Zealand win three Olympic team medals -- including bronze at London 2012 -- and three World Championship medals, with a team gold in 1990 in Stockholm.

Nicholson has also won Britain's prestigious Burghley Horse Trials five times, completing a hat-trick with his horse Avebury last year, as well as enjoying victories at other elite four-star events in Kentucky, Pau and Luhmuhlen.
Source: AFP