In the grand tapestry of royal traditions, some threads are vibrant with history, while others are tinged with controversy. It's a world where customs are passed down through generations, often without question. But what happens when modern sensibilities clash with ancient rites? Enter Catherine, the Princess of Wales, a royal figure who has gracefully navigated the delicate balance between heritage and progress. Today, we delve into a fascinating revelation that showcases her role as a protective mother and a progressive influence within the royal family.


The 'blooding' tradition, a rite of passage that has seen young royals partake in hunting and then undergo a rather visceral initiation involving the blood of their first kill, has been a contentious practice for centuries. This gory custom, which consists in smearing the face of the young royal with the blood of a stag or a fox, has been a part of royal upbringing for generations, including for the current King and his sons, Princes William and Harry.


However, in a bold move that speaks volumes about her values and the evolving nature of royal customs, Catherine Middleton has reportedly 'put her foot down' against her children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—participating in this tradition. This revelation comes from the pages of 'Yes, Ma'am – The Secret Life of Royal Servants,' a new book by author Tom Quinn that peels back the curtain on the private lives and decisions of the royal family.


Our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, who have witnessed the evolution of societal norms and the importance of preserving childhood innocence, may find Kate's decision both relatable and commendable. It's a decision that respects her children's individuality and acknowledges the changing attitudes towards blood sports and animal rights.

Prince Harry's own recounting of his 'blooding' experience in his memoir 'Spare' paints a vivid and unsettling picture of the tradition. His description of being pushed into the carcass of a stag, the overwhelming smell, and the sensation of blood and guts are enough to make anyone's stomach turn. It's no surprise that animal rights organizations like PETA have been vocal in their criticism of such practices.

Kate's stance is indicative of a broader shift within the royal family, as noted by Tom Quinn in his previous work, 'Gilded Youth.' Prince William, an avid shooter, has been grappling with the public's growing distaste for blood sports. Whether such activities are suitable for the young royals resonates with many of our readers, who have seen the world change and understand the importance of adapting to new ethical standards.


The debate over royal traditions and blood sports is not new. Historical figures like Henry Salt, an early 20th-century humanitarian and animal rights campaigner, have long called for an end to such 'loathsome' rituals. In recent years, public outrage has been sparked by incidents like Susannah Constantine's daughter being photographed smeared with the blood of a duck she had shot.

Catherine Middleton's decision to reshape this particular royal tradition for her children is a testament to her role as a modernizer within the monarchy. It's a move that aligns with the values of many Australians over 60, who appreciate the importance of tradition but also recognise the need for change and compassion in a modern world.
As we reflect on this insider secret, we invite our readers to share their thoughts on the balance between tradition and progress. How do you feel about the changes within the royal family? Do you think it's important to maintain certain traditions, or is it time to let some of them go? Join the conversation and let us know your perspective in the comments below.