LONDON –
The famous royal silks are making a return to British horse racing for the first time since the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Educator, who goes to the track in possession of the Queen’s heir, King Charles III, will wear the purple, red and gold silk for a race in Salisbury on Thursday.
Educator will be the first horse in these colors since Improvise was narrowly beaten at Epsom on September 8 – the same day the Queen died at her Balmoral estate in Scotland.
Tom Marquand, who will be riding Educator, said he will have mixed feelings.
“Having ridden for the queen, they will remain some of the proudest moments of my career throughout,” said Marquand. “Riding the first bishop (for the king) is also a moment to cherish.
“It will be a sad day and a happy day at the same time.”
Joe Saumarez Smith, Chairman of the British Horseracing Authority, expressed his delight at the King’s taking over royal racing interests.
“Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II left an indelible mark on our sport,” Smith said, “and her legacy will continue to be felt, not only through the horses that will continue to race in the name of King Charles III, but through you.” has bred that will be seen on the racetrack for years to come.”
Buckingham Palace said horse racing was a lifelong passion of the Queen and the King was “delighted to honor her legacy”.