On Saturday, we had the opportunity to attend the Royal
Ascot. The Royal Ascot is the Queen’s annual horse race held in June, and
people dress up in top hats and fascinators for five exciting days of racing.
The morning started off rough – we woke up two hours later
than anticipated, the weather was abysmal, and a series of unfortunate events
(e.g. blowing out the electricity in my room) plagued us while getting ready to
get to Ascot. After a brutal train ride up to Ascot, we met up with my friend’s
family, who were hosting a picnic prior to the races. It was interesting to
compare a British picnic to what we Americans would have at a barbecue, however
quiche, quail eggs, and champagne were delicious alternatives to hot dogs and
hamburgers.
We then headed to the race course, where we viewed the race
in the Royal Enclosure. I knew nothing about racing, but our friends kindly
explained the ins and outs so we had an idea of how to follow the races. Here
are a few highlights of the day:
- Me accidentally hitting Hugh Bonneville
(Downton Abbey) in the head with my umbrella, him apologizing, and me saying
“That’s okay”…. And then realizing I hit a famous person in the head with my
umbrella
- Our horse winning the second race and getting
to watch the awards in the parade ring
- Unintentionally video-bombing my friend’s
father as he was being interviewed on national television
- Me betting on a horse and losing (I. Never.
Win. Anything.)
- Getting invited to a box to watch the last few
faces... that was conveniently located one over from the Queen’s box
- Being a few feet away from the Queen as she
presented awards
- Walking back to the train in torrential
downpour and spending 90 minutes soaking wet on the train
Overall, attending the Royal Ascot was an incredible experience
and I am so happy I went. I now know a bit about racing and can say I hit a
celebrity in the face with my umbrella! How’s that for a fun fact?
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