As you’ve no doubt heard before, we are definitely in unprecedented times. With the coronavirus pandemic still in full swing, things are being handled in ways they never have been before.
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One tradition that’s being handled in a brand new way is the Royal Ascot.
For those who might be unaware, every year’s Royal Ascot is a five-day equestrian event containing horse races. For the first time in Queen Elizabeth’s 68-year reign, she was not in attendance as the event kicked off earlier this week due to the current pandemic.
She did, however, write the introduction for the racecards .
“I send my best wishes to the thousands of racing professionals and enthusiasts who will join me in celebrating this year’s Royal Ascot,” she wrote.
“In these challenging times, we are once again delighted to welcome the best horses and jockeys from across the world and pay tribute to those who have helped make this race meeting possible.”
“This year Ascot will feel different for many, as it is so often a chance for friends, families and colleagues to gather together and enjoy a shared passion.”
“I am sure however, that with the valiant efforts of the organizers, owners, trainers and stable staff, it will remain one of Britain’s finest sporting occasions and a highlight of the racing calendar,” she wrote.
The Queen owns several horses who will be competing in the race.
“To everyone attending Royal Ascot, in person or virtually, I hope you have a most enjoyable and unique week of racing,” she signed off.
It’s sweet that she took the time to include a message, even though it must be strange for her not to be attending the event in person for the first time in her reign as Queen!
