Paul Tapner, pictured here competing Yogi Bear VIII at Blenheim 2016, is ‘progressing well’ following a fall that resulted in brain bleeds and a mild stroke last week.
In a further update on his condition yesterday (Tuesday, 11 August), Paul’s wife Georgina said “medically he is good, physically he aches, and mentally he is improving”.
“His long-term memory is very good, but his short-term memory from the day of the accident until yesterday is sketchy,” she said.
“Today however he is remembering things like what he has eaten, why he is in hospital and what he needs to do to get better.
“He is likely to remain in hospital for a little longer before he can start his program of rehabilitation.”
She thanked everyone for their messages, adding: “Every single one has meant a lot, as I am sure they will to Paul when he can read and process them.”
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“The kids are coping well, Josh is busy helping with the harvest and working in the pub in the evenings,” added Georgina.
“Maddie competed little Rocky at Waverton on Saturday and managed to come second with a double clear! And we sold lovely Minty over the weekend to a wonderful home.
“Next week all things working out. Maddie will compete at West Wilts and I will compete in the BD [Winter] champs at Hartpury. So things at Team Tapner are still moving forward, we are just waiting, but of course being patient for the boss to return!”
Paul represented the Australian team at the 2010 and 2014 World Equestrian Games and in recent years has focused on his career as chief operations director of the Event Rider Masters, continuing to compete as an elite amateur.
He had been back in action since eventing’s post-lockdown restart, including a third place in an open intermediate at Aston-le-Walls last month with his top ride, Bonza King Of Rouges.
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
