Princess Anne made a triumphant return to royal engagements this afternoon 12 July at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, despite admitting she “can’t remember a single thing” about the horse accident that left her with head injuries.
This marks the first public appearance of the Princess Royal since her unexpected horse riding injury on Sunday, 23 June.
The incident happened during an evening walk on her Gatcombe Park estate, resulting in minor head injuries believed to be from contact with a horse’s leg or head, according to her doctors.
After a five-night hospital stay, she was released on Friday, 28 June, and has been recuperating ever since.
Despite the remnants of bruising under her left eye, she was all smiles at the event, looking elegant in a grey suit, vibrant scarf, and blue hat.
Upon arrival, she was warmly greeted by RDA chairwoman Helena Vega Lozano and CEO Michael Bishop, before mingling with attendees, handing out awards, and congratulating winners.
The Princess seemed overjoyed to resume her duties, celebrating the RDA’s 55th anniversary. She has been a dedicated supporter since becoming its Patron in November 1971 and President in March 1986.
Helena Vega Lozano, RDA UK’s chair, expressed immense pride at the princess choosing the RDA event as her first post-accident appearance, saying.
“It’s a huge honour for the princess to come to the RDA as her only event since the accident,” Vega said. She recounted Anne’s words upon arriving: “As soon as she got out of the car she said: ‘I can’t remember a single thing about it.'”
Delighted by the visit, Ms Vega Lozano remarked: “It’s hugely motivating and inspiring to have her here.”
Michael Bishop, Chief Executive of the RDA, couldn’t hide his excitement about Anne’s visit and expressed:
“We are honoured 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.”
RDA National Championship, held at Hartpury University and College over three days, is the biggest equestrian event of its kind crafted specifically for disabled competitors.
Competitors participate in myriad events such as dressage, vaulting, endurance showjumping, carriage driving, performance showing and Countryside Challenge classes.
Speaking volumes about the significant role it has in aiding the disabled populace engage in physical activity and sports, The Championships become a testament to RDA’s impact and service. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), thus stands as a charity touching countless lives of disabled children and adults.
RDA welcomes individuals with physical and learning disabilities, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity.
They offer a range of activities such as horse riding, carriage driving, and non-mounted interactions that provide therapy, fitness, skills development, and opportunities for achievement.