Royal Ascot, the jewel in the crown of British flat racing, will celebrate the 200th anniversary of its Royal Procession next week, showcasing a tradition that has remained remarkably unchanged since George IV first rolled up in 1825. The pomp, the pageantry, and the ritualistic doffing of top hats in the Royal Enclosure all remain staples of this singular sporting event, which has withstood societal change and shifting cultural interests with an almost stubborn elegance.
While other major meetings like the Derby and Cheltenham Festival have seen a decline in attendance, Royal Ascot continues to thrive, bucking post-Covid trends with an increase in crowd numbers in 2024. A significant factor in this continued appeal is the enthusiastic presence of the royal family. King Charles III, now in his third season as monarch, has made it clear that Ascot remains a priority. He attended all five days of the meeting in 2023 and is expected to do the same this year alongside the Queen.
The King’s passion for racing seems inherited, and the legacy continues with horses still running in the royal colours. Reaching High, trained by Willie Mullins in Ireland, is a prime contender in Tuesday’s Ascot Stakes. The gelding connects the new royal chapter with the old—he was one of the last bred by Queen Elizabeth II and is a son of Estimate, the mare who memorably won the 2013 Gold Cup for the late monarch.
Ascot remains more than just a race meeting; it is a key soft power asset for Britain. The global appeal of a quintessentially British event, complete with strict dress codes and centuries-old rituals, projects national identity and tradition to an international audience. High-profile owners and dignitaries gather in Berkshire each year, creating a cultural and economic summit akin to a sporting Davos.
The monarchy’s influence at Ascot extends beyond racing. This year’s meeting will feature an exhibition related to the Queen’s Reading Room, a charitable initiative close to Queen Camilla’s heart, reflecting the wider interests of the royal couple in shaping the modern relevance of the event.
Meanwhile, the weekend’s racing tips point towards promising opportunities beyond Ascot. Marchogion, a 7-1 shot at York’s Macmillan Charity card, has solid credentials, having comfortably won a similar event at Newmarket. Other notable runners include Dashing Darcey at York (1.50), Classic at Sandown (2.05), and Coto De Caza in Sandown’s 2.40, whose juvenile speed and proven form suggest he could make a successful seasonal debut.
As Royal Ascot prepares to unfurl its top hats and silks once more, the blend of regal tradition and elite sport remains a potent draw for the British public and international guests alike.
