Warren describes Gold Cup experience on BBC Radio

John Warren, The Queen's racing and bloodstock advisor, was

interviewed on BBC Radio 4's "Today" program following Estimate's historic

victory for Her Majesty in the Group 1 Gold Cup on Thursday at Royal Ascot.

"It was tremendous, absolutely wonderful," he said. "To win a Gold Cup was marvelous

-- the excitement was for

all to see. It was a tremendous moment, particularly at the end of two and a

half miles.

"The anticipation was built up due to the fact that a

journalist discovered that no reigning monarch had won the Gold Cup. That rather

built the tension up. It put excitement into the build-up. Although Estimate

started favorite, we didn't really think she could beat the colts (on Thursday). So

it was a tremendous performance by her to do so.

"(Racing and breeding) has been (The Queen's) life-long passion," Warren

continued.

"It is such a long journey involved -- going through all the hoops from deciding

the mating, to a live foal being born, and to having the horse trained so

beautifully. Then there are the ground conditions, judging the distance (to race

over) and many other aspects.

"When it ends up with a result like this, it is effectively

the end of an amazing journey. It could not be understated the depth of

knowledge that The Queen has and interest. Thankfully, it is a wonderful release

for her to be able to have an alternative thing to think about. It is her

tremendous passion. It is wonderful for British racing that The Queen embraces

it wholeheartedly."

Warren was asked would The Queen reduce the time spent on her racing

interests if and when she cuts back on her official duties.

"No, probably the opposite," he replied. "I hope that The

Queen might be able to find a little more time to spend with her horses. She has

so many commitments that the time she spends with her horses is so precious --

hence (Thursday) was a rare event with The Queen able to enjoy going racing.

"Racing goes through its ups and downs and there are always

stories that pass in the night. Actually to see any wonderful horse and any

committed owner have any success like this was tremendous.

"So it was a wonderful day for British racing. We do have

the best stallions in the world and the best racing in the world. Owners from

all over the world come and participate which we are all so grateful for."

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