Day at the races: Royal smiles as Newbury season opens

THE Queen, who celebrates her 86th birthday today, indulged her love of horse racing by attending the first day of the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials Weekend at Newbury Racecourse.

The two-day event heralds the start of the Flat season at the west Berkshire course.

Her Majesty, who is said to read the Racing Post every day over breakfast, does not place individual bets but is reported to enjoy being part of a sweepstake.

During the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year, several horses are expected to carry the Royal colours, including three-year-old filly Free Verse, which has been entered in the Free Full of Surprises Handicap Stakes.

Today’s Dubai Duty Free Stakes, a recognised trial for the 1,000 Guineas, has attracted 19 entries including Godolphin’s unbeaten filly, Lyric of Light. Racegoers sampled a taste of Dubai hospitality – including Arabic coffee and dates – in the Dubai duty free marquee.