Princess Anne has opened up about her recent health scare, revealing that she “can’t remember a single thing” about the horse-related incident that left her with a concussion and minor injuries. The 73-year-old royal made her first public appearance since the accident on July 12, attending the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships at Hartpury University and Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, England.
The incident occurred on June 23 at her Gatcombe Park estate. Emergency services were called, and Princess Anne was subsequently hospitalized at Southmead Hospital in Bristol for five days. Upon her discharge on June 28, she returned to her Gloucestershire home to continue her recovery.
During her appearance at the RDA event, Helena Vega Lozano, chair of RDA UK, recounted that as soon as Princess Anne exited her car, she remarked, “I can’t remember a single thing about it.” Despite the memory loss, which is believed to be temporary, the Princess Royal appeared in good spirits, engaging with RDA supporters, presenting awards, and meeting winners.
The RDA National Championships is a significant event for disabled competitors, and it holds a special place in Princess Anne’s heart. She has been involved with the organization since becoming its patron in November 1971 and has served as its president since 1985. Her presence at the event marked a gradual return to her royal duties.
On June 24, Buckingham Palace announced that Princess Anne had sustained a concussion and minor injuries in the incident. The statement read, “The Princess Royal has sustained minor injuries and concussion following an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate yesterday evening. Her Royal Highness remains in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift recovery.”
King Charles and the entire royal family sent their well-wishes for her speedy recovery. Her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, expressed his gratitude to the care team at Southmead Hospital, saying, “I would like to extend my warmest thanks to all the team at Southmead Hospital for their care, expertise, and kindness during my wife’s short stay.”
Princess Anne’s injuries are consistent with a potential impact from a horse’s head or legs, but the exact details of the accident remain unclear due to her concussion. Despite this, she has shown resilience and determination to return to her duties.
Known as the “hardest-working royal,” Princess Anne has a long history of dedication to her royal responsibilities. In 2023 alone, she attended 457 engagements. Her recent health setback forced her to clear her calendar, including missing a Buckingham Palace banquet in honor of the Japanese state visit and a planned trip to Canada.
Princess Anne’s commitment to her duties and her passion for equestrian activities are well-documented. She competed for Team Great Britain at the 1976 Olympics, making history as the first member of the British royal family to participate in the Games. Just a week before her accident, she rode in the Trooping the Colour parade, maintaining her composure even when her horse became unruly.
Her return to public duties at the RDA event was met with enthusiasm and admiration. Michael Bishop, chief executive of the RDA, said, “We are honored to welcome the Princess Royal to our flagship event, the RDA National Championships, at which we are celebrating our 55th anniversary and delighted that she has chosen to join us as she returns to royal duties.”
Princess Anne’s dedication to the RDA and her support for disabled competitors have been unwavering over the years. Her presence at the event was a testament to her resilience and commitment to her role.
As she continues her gradual return to royal duties, Princess Anne’s health will be closely monitored by her medical team. Her family, including her husband and children, Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips, have been by her side throughout her recovery.
Princess Anne’s recent health scare adds to the challenges faced by the royal family, with King Charles and the Princess of Wales also dealing with their respective health issues. Despite these challenges, the royal family remains committed to their duties and responsibilities.
Princess Anne’s resilience and dedication serve as an inspiration to many. Her ability to bounce back from adversity and continue her work is a testament to her strength and determination. As she continues to recover, her presence and contributions to the royal family and various charitable organizations will undoubtedly remain significant.
Source: Daily Mail, PEOPLE, The Telegraph, Getty Images, ZUMAPRESS.com, SWNS, REUTERS, AP
