THE nation was willing the Queen’s horses to give her a jubilee win at a scorching Ascot yesterday — but they were twice pipped at the post.
Tens of thousands of revellers basked in unbroken sunshine as temperatures sizzled to a blistering 29C (84F) on the racing event’s world-famous Ladies Day.
And it was hot favourite Reach for the Moon who punters hoped would romp home for Her Majesty, 96 — who stayed at home at Windsor Castle and watched the action on the telly.
But jockey Frankie Dettori’s royal ride was outdone by winner Claymore and came in second. Dettori, 51, also came second on Saga — another of the Queen’s horses — while her final entry Tactical came a disappointing seventh in the final race.
As the sun blazed on horses and racegoers alike, dozens of punters were treated for heatstroke on the hottest day of the year so far. One staff member said: “They were dropping like flies.”
Weather forecasters say conditions will be getting even hotter today.
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Princess Anne, 71, was joined by daughter Zara, 41, and son-in-law Mike Tindall, 43, in the royal box.
Celebrities included DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, 59, with his new girlfriend Katie Dadzie, 32, and TV’s Judge Rob Rinder, 44.
I’m a Celebrity winner Georgia Toffolo, 27, dazzled in a golden dress as she posed for pictures.
And former “It girl” Lady Victoria Hervey, 45, wore a revealing outfit as she arrived at the third day of the festival.
ITV racing presenter Charlotte Hawkins, 47, and actress Amy Jackson, 30, looked stylish, as did TV presenter Helen Skelton, 38.
Other racegoers wore a rainbow of colours, complete with elegant and exciting hats featuring pink feathers — and even a bird sitting in jungle foliage.
Rob Rinder said: “You really feel the sense of joy and excitement — and throw in the Royal Family, it feels a really inclusive and unique mix of British eccentricities.”
And he joked: “Clare Balding always WhatsApps me tips — and they always come in last.”
It is believed the Queen — who has had 24 Royal Ascot winners in 70 years on the throne — still hopes to be at one of the last two days of the festival in Berkshire.
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She has attended every year since acceding to the throne in 1952 — apart from when it was held behind closed doors during the pandemic.
Her Majesty suffered disappointment at The Derby at Epsom after Reach for the Moon pulled out on her Platinum Jubilee weekend.
