The Queen will not attend the Epsom Derby on Saturday but is expected to watch the major sporting event on television at Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.
The news comes a day after the palace said that Her Majesty would miss today's National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral.
In a statement released yesterday, Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen greatly enjoyed today’s Birthday Parade and flypast but did experience some discomfort.
“Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty, with great reluctance, has concluded that she will not attend.
“The Queen is looking forward to participating in tonight’s beacon lighting event at Windsor Castle and would like to thank all those who made today such a memorable occasion.”
Her Majesty, who is a passionate horse owner and breeder, had her hopes of winning on Epsom Derby day ended after her only runner was pulled out of a race.
Just Fine had been entered to feature in the penultimate race, the World Pool Northern Dancer Handicap, staged over the full Derby course and distance of one mile and four furlongs.
However, it was removed at Thursday’s 48-hour declaration stage.
Thoroughbreds owned by the Queen have won four out of the five flat racing classics – the 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas, the Oaks and the St Leger – with only the Derby eluding her.
Her Majesty will not attend tomorrow's Epsom Derby
PA
Her Majesty did attend the Royal Windsor Horse Show last month
Steve Parsons
