The Monarchy Bids Farewell to Tyrone.
Royal Carriage Horse Tyrone Retires After 14 Years of Service
The British royal family has announced the retirement of Tyrone, a Windsor Grey horse, who has served the monarchy for 14 years. The news was shared on the royal family's official Instagram account on Sunday, accompanied by a carrot and a horse head emoji.
Tyrone, along with five other horses, pulled King Charles and Queen Camilla in the golden state coach during the coronation day parade in 2023. This particular event took place during a challenging year for Kate Middleton, as she was battling cancer. Tyrone's role was significant, as he was in the "near wheel position," a crucial role in steering and maneuvering the heavy state carriages.
The Windsor Greys are a team of grey horses belonging to the British royal family, known for their role in royal ceremonial events. They have been long associated with the monarchy and have traditionally pulled the royal carriages to major state occasions such as coronations, state visits, royal weddings, and the State Opening of Parliament. These horses are stabled and cared for at the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, which is the center for the royal family’s horses, carriages, and vehicles.
The Royal Mews, the royal stables of the British royal family, were moved to the grounds of Buckingham Palace in the 1820s. The Royal Mews houses the horses, carriages, and cars used for official occasions and ceremonial purposes of the British monarch. It also accommodates the royal family's horses, such as the "Windsor Greys" and "Cleveland Bays." The Royal Mews partially functions as a museum open to the public, displaying a collection of historical royal carriages, including the gold state coach.
Tyrone accompanied Kate Middleton and her children to the "Trooping the Colour" parade in 2024. He pulled the most important carriages at official events and ceremonies, representing continuity in royal traditions and pageantry. The post expressing Tyrone's retirement also expressed joy that he will be reunited with his father and sister, Storm and Meg, who have already retired and are in the care of The Horse Trust.
The post on the royal family's Instagram account expressed that Tyrone will be missed by all in the Royal Mews. A photo gallery was published, showcasing Tyrone's service to the royal family at significant events. The British royal family's announcement of Tyrone's retirement highlights the importance and emotional connection of the Windsor Greys to the monarchy, with King Charles III indicating their continued role in official ceremonies under his reign as well.
Despite his retirement, Tyrone, the dedicated Windsor Grey horse, will continue to enjoy his well-deserved rest at home, perhaps peaceful gardens being his new lifestyle companion. As for his loyal companionship, it seems he will not be alone, sharing his days with pets such as his father, Storm, and his sister, Meg, under the care of The Horse Trust.
