Royal Ascot Preview

Summer is always the peak time of the year to witness some magical sporting moments. And few sporting events have the glamour or the drama as exhibited by the Royal Ascot horse races. So here’s a quick preview of what to expect this year…

 

Since 1711 Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire has been one of the most highly respected racing circuits in the country. And Royal Ascot is the centrepiece of the racing year with members of the Royal Family including Queen Elizabeth II arriving each day in a horse-drawn carriage to take part in the celebrations.

The racecourse has long had historic associations with the Royal Family as it is just six miles from Windsor Castle, and is also conveniently located along the M4 motorway making it easily accessible for most Welsh visitors.

Racing action

Each year over 300,000 spectators flock to Ascot to witness Europe’s best-attended race meeting. And this year Royal Ascot takes place between 16 and 20 June with a selection of the world’s best racehorses competing for the incredible £5.5 million in prize money.

Although there are sixteen group races to witness, the main race that will attract the greatest amount of attention will undoubtedly be the Gold Cup.

Last year the Irish thoroughbred Leading Light won a thrilling victory by just a neck, but 2015 could see the current favourite Forgotten Rules gaining horse-racing immortality. Bookmakers such as Coral provide the latest in the ever-changing odds, and spectators are well-advised to check the form, especially given Forgotten Rules’ inability to perform well on firm ground.

Other activities

However, it’s not all about the racing of course. Royal Ascot provides a great day out for all of the family with a whole host of attractions to attend.

The most magical part of the day has to be the Royal Procession that takes place at the start of each day followed by the raising of the Queen’s Royal Standard. Such high-brow affairs also attracts a whole range of celebrities and associated paparazzi with recent attendees including the likes of Elizabeth Hurley, Bruce Forsyth and Gok Wan all enjoying the racing action.

And as well as being a highpoint in the social calendar for style and fashion, Royal Ascot also offers a treasure trove for foodies too. Whether it be attending the Hatters’ Pimms and Cocktail Bar in the Royal Enclosure, or sampling the TK Artisan Deli in the Silver Ring Enclosure, you’ll be sure to stay well fuelled with food and drink as you cheer your favourite horse over the finish line!