Royal Children Follow in Queen’s Footsteps by Learning to Ride Ponies

Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis are stepping into the equestrian world, mirroring their great-grandmother, the Queen, as they have taken up horse riding ahead of the summer season.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's three children have evidently drawn inspiration from the Queen, dedicating much of their time during lockdown to honing their riding skills on their first ponies.

According to reports from the Times, the young trio has shown a keen interest in horse riding, a passion shared with their great-grandmother who has been an avid rider since the age of four.

The royal siblings, who have been perfecting their abilities on their own ponies while residing at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, are expected to join the Queen, affectionately known as Gangan to them, for some quality time at Windsor and Balmoral once lockdown restrictions ease.

It is understood that the monarch is closely monitoring her great-grandchildren's progress in the saddle, showing a special interest in their newfound hobby.

Their parents, Prince William and Kate Middleton, are equally enthusiastic about the children learning to ride and assisting with pony grooming.

Prince George displayed his comfort in the saddle during the Cambridge family's visit to Canada in 2016, where it was revealed that he had been receiving riding lessons on a Shetland pony owned by Zara Tindall, Prince William's cousin.

This echoes the experience of Prince William himself, who was introduced to riding at the age of four with a Shetland pony named Smokey.

Princess Charlotte, who exhibited her love for horses by sporting a unicorn charm on her school bag, commenced her riding lessons at just 17 months old.

During a conversation with equestrian triple gold medalist Natasha Baker, Kate Middleton expressed her delight in Charlotte's enthusiasm for horse riding, hinting at a potential Olympic future for her daughter.

Baker shared, “I asked her how the children were, and she said Charlotte is really enjoying her riding which is great to hear, and I said we may see her here on a line-up in 20 years' time.”

The Duchess emphasized Charlotte's passion for horses and her commitment to supporting and nurturing it.

The royal children's increased involvement in horse riding activities in recent months is seen as a positive outlet, particularly following the loss of their beloved cocker spaniel, Lupo, in November.

Prince William is reportedly pleased that his children are embracing the equestrian hobby, reminiscent of his own upbringing where he was taught to ride by his father, Prince Charles, and late mother, Princess Diana at Highgrove.

This tradition aligns with the family's deep-rooted love for horses, with the Queen herself receiving a Shetland pony named Peggy for her fourth birthday.

The royal family's connection to equestrian pursuits extends further, with the Princess Royal and Zara Tindall, her daughter, both achieving success in equestrian competitions.

Zara notably made history in 2012 by becoming the first royal to win an Olympic medal, securing silver at the London Games.