Ascot Racecourse

Ascot racecourse is arguably the most historic racecourse in Britain, as well as one of the most important. The course opened in 1711, and with it being just six miles from Windsor Castle, is closely associated with the British Royal family. Steeped in history, the track hosts nine of the UK's annual Group 1 races, and in total there are 26 days of racing at Ascot throughout the year. 18 of these are flat meetings, and they also accommodate jump racing throughout the winter months.

The Royal Ascot Meeting consists of five days of racing held in mid-June. The meet is one of the most famous in Europe and dates back to Queen Anne, founder in 1711. Over 300,000 people visit Berkshire to attend the meeting, making it Europe's best-attended meet. Every year the Queen attends the meet. Her horse Estimate won the Gold Cup in 2013, and other members of the Royal Family also traditionally attend.

The pinnacle of Royal Ascot is The Gold Cup. The race dates back to 1807 and is traditionally run on the third day of Ascot. With a distance of 2 miles and 4 furlongs, it is one of the longest flat races in the world. Victors are usually riding "stayers", horses that specialise in racing over long distances. The inaugural winner in 1807 was Master Jackey, while the most successful horse is Yeats, who has won the race four times. After the monarchy, Lester Piggott is the undisputed King of Ascot. He has ridden an incredible 11 winners. There are eight trainers who are all tied on five wins, while Godolphin and Sue Magnier are the most successful owners with five wins apiece.  

Come July and Ascot is the venue for the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, colloquially known as the King George. This is the most prestigious open-age flat race in Britain. The 1 mile and 4 furlong race was first run in 1951. Won by Supreme Court, it has since grown to become Britain's second richest horse race after the Epsom Derby.  
Only two horses have ever won the race twice, Dahlia (1973, 74) and Swain (1997, 98). The ever-present Lester Piggott continues his incredible Ascot record; he has won the race a record seven times. 

Three trainers have won the race five times, while Michael Tabor is the leading owner with five wins. Winners of the King George usually go on to compete at L'Arc in Longchamps.

Ascot is quintessentially British flat racing. 

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