by Sarah Goodall and Hannibal Reitano
Royal Ascot is the pinnacle of flat racing calendar, with international horses dominating at least half of the meeting and attracting over 4000.000 people and more than 400 horses.
It is thanks to Queen Anne in 1711, who decided that the land was ideal for horses to “run at full gallop”, that we now enjoy this spectacular gathering yearly; and this year’s five days’ racing, from Tuesday to Saturday inclusive, did not disappoint.
The dress code in the Royal Enclosure is maintained strictly and gentlemen must wear top hats with tail coats, or suits and ladies must wear dresses or trouser suits that do not expose midriffs, shoulders must be covered, and hats should be worn that cover at least four inches of the crown! It is a chance for an amazing array of colours, styles and designers from across the board and photographers delight in the many spectacular and beautiful hats on display.
Thursday was of course Ladies Day, and a chance for the ladies to shine and really go to town on their hats. It was also the day of the week’s highlight race, The Gold Cup , a group one race, run over about two miles, which was presented by Her Majesty The Queen; other presenters that day included : Greg Rutherford, a British track athlete; HRH Princess Eugenie, HRH The Countess of Wessex and Nick Mason the British musician.
 |
| Bollinger Champagne Marquee |
 |
| Fiona Davidoff Car Park Number One picnic with Hannibal Reitano |
 |
| Longines VIP Box |
 |
| Royal Box Entrance |
 |
| Greg Rutherford CBE |
 |
| Natalia Kapchuk |
 |
| Stephen Jones |
 |
| Isabella Kristensen |
 |
| Laura Whitmour |
