Equestrian Enthusiasts Witness Royal Family’s $328,068 Worth Horse Narrowly Miss Victory in Recent Showdown

The Betfred St Leger is hosted annually in the month of September. This is nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the equestrian community. High-end events paired with the flat racing season, St. Leger’s 3-day-long festival welcomes attendees and spectators in for a historical watch. With its festival back for the season, St. Leger stood to witness the presence of royalty amongst its audience.

On Saturday as the Doncaster Cup lifted its gates for the equines racing toward the title, there was one that the majority had their eyes on. Racing the 1 mile and 6 furlongs race course alongside 8 other equines was King Charles III’s equine which finished the race with an unexpected result.

Prince Charles III on his toes at the Doncaster Cup

The St. Legers is the racing world’s one of oldest Classic. The show beholds the luxury, fame, and excitement. Entering this year’s convivial festival were King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The two royalties joined the parade rings, settling themselves in the audience to witness the performance of their equine, Desert Hero. As the match started, those in the audience seats awaited a victory of the 3-year-old Chestnut Colt. However, the royal family wasn’t in for luck.

The P O’Brien-trained 3-year-old Bay Colt Continuous took a quick lead in the contest. The 3-1 victor topped by Ryan Moore dominated the race leading to the finish line. Following right behind was another 3-year-old Bay Colt, Arrest. The latter topped by Italian Jockey Frankie Dettori fell short by 2 3/4th of a length to the finish. While the King and queen-owned Desert Hero came in third.

Prior to coming under King Charles III’s care, Desert Hero was bred and owned by Queen Elizabeth II. Earlier to his performance at the ST. Legers, the equine secured some notable titles to his name. Debuting in 2022, Desert Hero has recorded 4 wins to his name with 7 starts. The equine’s most recent wins include the Ascot and the Goodwood back in June and August. However, Desert Hero’s win at the St. Legers was bound to end the royal house’s Classic drought. The house last witnessed a classic win in 1977 when Dunfermline won for King Charles III’s mother according to BBC.

Also Read: Bruce Springsteen’s Equestrian Daughter Jessica Springsteen Previews Her Equine’s Luxury Style Ahead Of 2024 Paris Olympics

Despite the failed accomplishments, the royal family hasn’t deferred its equestrian links. Throughout the years, members of the royal house have often been captured with their interest in the equestrian sport.

Royal Family’s Equestrian Association

The royal family is known to be the family of equestrians. From Queen Elizabeth to Zara Tindall, the love for the sport runs in the family. Queen Elizabeth’s Desert Horse wasn’t her only acquisition. The former Queen supposedly made millions from her racehorses.

As reported by town and country, back in 2017, Queen Elizabeth had made £7 million over the past 3 decades. Further, the queen also took an active interest in the foaling and care of her horses. Queen Elizabeth also reportedly kept a record of her wins and losses. But that wasn’t all for the British Royalty.

The family has also seen its members to the most prestigious of the sports. Queen Elizabeth II’s daughter, Princess Anne is a known equestrian. The horseback rider made it to the Olympics back in 1976 as a 26-year-old. Following along, her ex-husband, Mark Philips won an Olympic Gold for the team in 1970. And further joining her two parents was Zara Tindall. The daughter of the former two equestrians won an Olympic silver as recently as the 2012 London Olympics.

The equestrian enthusiasm moves around in the royal family one way or another. And staying true to it, the royal family looks forward to winning the Classics next year and hopefully ending the 47-year wait.

Watch this story: California’s Equestrian Future Uncertain as Golden Gate Fields Faces Simulcast Changes