Ascot is commemorating 300 years of racing at the world famous Berkshire venue throughout 2011.
In this historic tercentenary year, racegoers are invited to enjoy Ascot’s milestone, where its heritage and royal connections will be celebrated and remembered at the racecourse.
Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Ascot Racecourse has been uniquely synonymous in the sporting and social world with fashion and style coupled with the greatest racing over three centuries.
For one year only, the racecourse has adopted a special commemorative logo, which has been replicated all over the site on flags and banners, some of which include beautiful historic images.
A “time-line” has been produced on site and in print, marking key events at Ascot since its inauguration and also placing them into the wider historical context.
One of the most visually compelling additions to the Royal Meeting in June, always the centrepiece of the racecourse’s year and the focal point of the tercentenary celebrations, will be the appearance of “the Queen Anne Rose,” honouring the racecourse’s founder.
Royal Ascot will have an eighteenth Group race this year as the Hampton Court Stakes has been promoted to Group Three status and that race has now been renamed the Tercentenary Stakes in perpetuity.
Fullers have brewed a limited edition “Tercentenary Ale” which will be available at the racecourse throughout the year.
Ascot’s Colts and Fillies Club for younger racegoers, which has over 11,500 members, has adopted a race horse, Safari Team, for the forthcoming Flat Season. Safari Team, trained by Peter Winkworth, will be racing in the club’s official silks which have been designed by club member, Frances Flannagan, aged 9.
“We are looking forward to celebrating and sharing the racecourse’s rich history throughout 2011,” said Charles Barnett, Chief Executive at Ascot.
“The site is beginning to have a real party feel about it as we build up to the Royal Meeting and we hope that all our racegoers, all year, enjoy learning more about this very special place.”
