The 96-year-old monarch is a
keen equestrian and racegoer and events like Royal Ascot and the Royal Windsor
Horse Show are highlights in her diary. But due to her episodic mobility
issues, it’s understood that the Queen has been enjoying the Berkshire races
from the comfort of her house.
Earlier this month, her
granddaughter Zara Tindall revealed that Her Majesty was tuning in to the Epsom
Derby over the Platinum Jubilee weekend after being forced to pull out last
minute.
And it sounds like she has a
great set-up at home, which she is most likely repeating for Royal Ascot.
“She will be watching on
the TV. She has a few runners today dotted around the country, so she knows
exactly what’s going on,” Zara said, referring to the Derby. “She’ll
just be sat on the sofa watching the TV. She’ll be in her comfy clothes… She’s
got runners today, so she’ll concentrate on that and be watching the
Derby.”
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The Queen pictured at Royal Ascot last year
The Queen’s Windsor Castle
home is a 15-minute drive away from Royal Ascot so there is still hope that she
will make an appearance before the event draws to an end on Saturday.
She has more than ten horses
entered over the five days of the event, with her horse Reach For The Moon
odds-on to win a race on Thursday, as well as her horses Tactical and Saga
standing a chance, meaning she could make an appearance then. She is also usually
on hand to present the trophy to the winner of the Gold Cup.
Prince Charles and Camilla
attended days one and two of Royal Ascot this week, leading the royal
procession by riding in the first carriage. They left an empty space in
their carriage on both days as a sign of respect for Her Majesty who would
normally be in attendance.
Other members of the
royal family who have stepped out this week include Prince Edward and
Sophie, Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Zara and Mike Tindall,
and Princess Anne.
