The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will make their Royal Ascot debut on Wednesday, the first time the couple will have attended the prestigious race meeting.
William and Catherine will arrive at the world famous racecourse in the royal procession to watch the running of The Duke of Cambridge Stakes.
The mile long Group 2 race was renamed in 2013 in honour of Prince William.
Ascot is a favorite occasion on the royal calendar, with Her Majesty and other members of the Royal Family descending to the racecourse every year.
Tuesday marked the first day of the race meeting which saw Prince Harry, The Duke of York, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arriving in royal carriage.
It’s no secret that Royal Ascot is close to Her Majesty’s heart and she shared her love for the annual event in a letter of welcome in the official programme. It read:
“I have been deeply touched by the kind birthday wishes I have received this year and to have this milestone commemorated in the title of Royal Ascot’s centrepiece race, The Gold Cup.
“Of my many memories, visits to Royal Ascot with my family are amongst the most cherished. I first attended racing at Ascot in 1945, when I was just nineteen.
“Throughout my life I have seen the quality of sport at Royal Ascot increase significantly and I would like to thank the owners and trainers who bring the best horses in the world to compete here. I wish all of you good fortune.
“To all those who breed, own, train, ride and look after horses, and to all this week’s visitors from home and further afield, may I offer a very warm welcome to Royal Ascot.
“Elizabeth R”
