Thousands of Australian racegoers are destined for Ascot in June to see champion sprinter Black Caviar compete on the royal course.
Compared to the usual “handful” of antipodeans who seek a place in the royal enclosure, inquiries have been received from hundreds, with many more passing through the gates for general entry, Ascot’s head of communications and international racing Nick Smith told British newspaper The Daily Telegraph.
“We have a reciprocal arrangement with the Victoria Racing Club. This enables their members to apply for Royal Enclosure badges without having to go through Australia House in London, which is the normal protocol,” Smith said.
“Normally, that runs into a handful of applications, but this year we have had literally hundreds. It is staggering. Also, we are seeing many Australian tourists purchasing grandstand tickets for the Saturday.”
June 23 is the day the Peter Moody-trained mare, unbeaten in 21 races, vies for the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, due to start at midnight (AEST).
Smith said the “media circus” is due to start well before race day, with Black caviar’s arrival at Newmarket where she will be stabled.
“We have had applications from all the television networks in Australia for news access, as well as the racing channels down there. Most newspapers are sending a reporter,” he said.
The Daily Telegraph reports that Black Caviar’s Ascot assignment will be broadcast live in Melbourne’s Federation Square.
