THE Queen is skipping the first day of Royal Ascot today – but Prince Charles and Camilla kicked things off in style in her place.
Punters had hoped the horse-mad monarch would make an appearance at the racing extravaganza in Berkshire, but she was noticeably missing from the carriage procession.
It is not known exactly why Her Majesty, a passionate racehorse owner and breeder, declined the invitation, but she has been battling mobility issues for several months.
The 96-year-old is likely watching the action unfold at home in her “comfy clothes” as she did for the Epsom Derby during the Platinum Jubilee weekend, according to her granddaughter.
However, there is still hope she will attend Ascot before the week is out after describing it as a “thrilling” experience.
The Queen wrote in the official programme: “After the challenges of recent times, this year’s royal meeting provides a long-awaited opportunity for supporters of racing from all over the world to come together for five days of outstanding sport.
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“Once again, it is thrilling that horses from around the globe have travelled to Royal Ascot to compete at the highest level.”
Thousands of racegoers filled the stands today for the first time since the pandemic.
Several royals are in attendance, including Charles and Camilla who led the Firm, as well as Princess Anne and Princess Beatrice.
Dressed in blue and grey, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall are travelled in the lead carriage with the Princess Royal’s son Peter Phillips.
They were followed by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, with Anne in the third carriage with other guests.
Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, walked through the gates to the course with the other punters and were surrounded by photographers before making their way into an exclusive area.
The Queen has more than 10 horses entered over the five days of the event and, with her Windsor Castle home just a 15-minute drive away, there is still hope that she will attend during the week.
Her horse Reach For The Moon, which missed out on being entered for the Epsom Derby, is favourite with some bookies to win the Hampton Court Stakes on Thursday with jockey Frankie Dettori taking the reins.
Traditionally Her Majesty arrives as part of the carriage procession, but if she does make it this week it will likely be by limousine.
Royal Ascot is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar – but it is also a social occasion and a chance to dress to impress.
Hundreds of guests put on their best summer dresses and flamboyant hats, while others sported top hats and tails or three-piece suits.
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They have all gathered to cheer on some of the best horses and jockeys from around the world.
Royal Ascot was held behind closed doors in 2020, and last year limited racegoers were admitted after it was selected to take part in a Covid event research programme.
