King Charles plans to go to Royal Ascot
THE UK’s King Charles plans to honour his late mother’s memory by going to Royal Ascot in June.
The race meeting was such a favourite of the late queen that she missed only one during her 70-year reign.
Charles, who has been having treatment for cancer, is understood to be keen to be back in action – and aides pleased with his progress are planning for him to attend the event.
A racing source said: ‘Racing is an important part of the legacy that he inherited from his mother, and one that he treasures. That’s why he will be so keen to go.’
Insiders predicted the king’s attendance would be a big boost for ticket sales, after initial doubts he would be able to be at the event – it is understood he may also attend the annual Trooping the Colour parade, three days before Ascot begins.
Charles, 75, plans to spend ‘at least’ one day at the five-day racing festival, and will host a lunch for a select ‘bubble’ of friends and family. Those closest to Charles regard Royal Ascot – and Trooping the Colour – as perfect events for him to reconnect with the UK public.
A new distancing protocol dictates that he should see members of the public in the open air, allowing him to stay safe from the risk of contracting airborne illnesses while vulnerable from treatment.
The open-top royal carriage rides at Ascot will enable him to be seen, while the glass-fronted royal box will help Charles to resist the temptation to shake hands with wellwishers, which he did out of habit when he left Windsor Castle following an Easter Sunday service.
A source said: ‘Ascot is the perfect event for his current “bubble”-style distancing preferences – there will be lots of fresh air and plenty of chances to be seen by his fans. I would bet he attends on Tuesday, the day of the King Charles III stakes.’
Last year, the five-furlong King Charles III Stakes was named in honour of the monarch’s first racing week since ascending to the throne.