The News
Duchess Sophie Brings Laughter to Sandringham with Hilarious Carriage Driving Game
Last Saturday, the Sandringham Driving Horse Trials turned into a scene of joy and laughter, thanks to the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie.
The 59-year-old royal showcased her playful spirit during a carriage driving drinking game that had her family in stitches.
As she maneuvered her carriage, Sophie demonstrated her skills by deftly picking up a glass of sparkling water from a stand, holding it between her teeth as she sped past.
Among the spectators were her husband, Prince Edward, and their daughter, Lady Louise Windsor, who couldn't help but burst into giggles at their mother's antics.
When Sophie attempted to place the glass back on the post, her missed attempt sent waves of laughter through the crowd, especially from Edward and Lady Louise, who were thoroughly entertained.
Dressed in a stylish navy blue velvet coat and a veiled hat, the Duchess looked every bit the part as she participated in the event.
This outing marks her new role as president of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials, a position that holds significant meaning for the royal family, especially since it was previously presided over by the late Prince Philip.
As Sophie expertly navigated the course, she kept the glass steady between her teeth, but when the moment came to return it to the post, she hilariously missed again, prompting even more laughter from her family.
Edward, always the supportive husband, captured the light-hearted moment on his phone, preserving the memory for years to come.
The fun-filled day came just weeks after Edward and Sophie celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, adding an extra layer of joy to the occasion.
Lady Louise, a university student and budding carriage driver, was seen enjoying the day alongside her friend, Felix de Silva Clamp, who shares her passion for amateur dramatics.
Felix, who hails from Australia and works part-time as a gelato artist, has become a close companion to Lady Louise during their time at the University of St Andrews.
Earlier this year, they both took part in a production called Dragon Fever, showcasing their talents on stage.
As Sophie juggled the glass and the reins, she couldn't help but throw her head back in laughter, embodying the fun spirit of the day.
On her next attempt, she nailed the obstacle course, successfully placing the glass back on the post to the delight of the cheering crowd.
However, not all royal engagements went as planned.
Just days later, Sophie was notably absent from a banquet at Guildhall, which raised eyebrows among royal fans.
While Buckingham Palace initially announced her attendance, it was later clarified that only Edward would represent the couple at the formal dinner with Emperor Naruhito.
On the same day, Sophie was fulfilling her duties as Colonel-in-Chief at the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers' Festival of Sport in Wiltshire.
Earlier in the week, she dazzled attendees at the Buckingham Palace State Banquet, wearing an exquisite emerald gown and stunning jewels from the Royal Vaults.
For the first time, Sophie donned the lotus flower tiara, a striking piece previously worn by notable royals including the Princess of Wales and Princess Margaret.
She also wore a beautiful diamond drop demi-peru loaned from the late Queen Elizabeth's collection, adding to her regal appearance.
The day was filled with royal engagements, as Prince Edward and Sophie joined other members of the royal family to welcome the Emperor and Empress of Japan during their visit to the UK.
They toured a special exhibition at Buckingham Palace, featuring items from the Royal Collection that highlight the rich cultural ties between the two nations.