Home / Lifestyle / Prince Philip's Hat Secret: It's All About the Horses!
Prince Philip's Hat Secret: It's All About the Horses!
30 Jan
Summary
- Prince Philip's hat color indicated whether he drove his own or Queen's horses.
- A black top hat signified driving the Queen's horses, like her Cleveland Bays.
- He competed in carriage driving from the early 1970s until retiring in 2003.
Prince Philip's distinctive hat choice in carriage driving conveyed a special message about the horses he was driving. According to horsewoman Sara Howe, a black top hat signified that the Duke was driving the Queen's horses, referencing the Queen's Cleveland Bay steeds. Conversely, a gray top hat indicated he was driving his own horses.
Prince Philip embraced carriage driving in the early 1970s, becoming a prominent ambassador for the sport. He competed in championships until retiring from competition in 2003, though he continued driving into his nineties. His youngest granddaughter, Lady Louise Windsor, now participates in carriage driving, recently seen driving his carriage.
Howe described the Duke as a competitive yet friendly figure who demanded directness. She recalled his humorous yet straightforward feedback on horse performance. Despite his royal status, competitors like Howe noted that on the field, everyone was on equal footing, a sentiment mirrored by Lady Louise today.
