Royal Pancakes: Queen Camilla Unveils Statue of Legendary Jockey Frankie de Torea Taskett

Queen Camilla recently graced the awards ceremony at the Berkshire Circuit during the Kipko British Champions Day last Saturday.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a statue honoring the esteemed Italian jockey, Frankie de Torea Taskett.

Riding to victory on two occasions during his final race in Britain, the veteran jockey's legacy was immortalized through this remarkable tribute.

Expressing his gratitude, De Torea, who is set to make a move to the United States, lauded the statue as a humble yet impressive work of art.

Reflecting on his deep connection to Askett, the 52-year-old reminisced about his early triumphs, stating that the venue held special significance for him.

With an illustrious career that saw him clinch 9 gold cups, 7 King Georges, and a total of 81 wins at Royal Askett, De Torea's impact on the racing world remains unparalleled.

The masterful sculpture, crafted by Tristram Lewis, captured the essence of the legendary jockey, portraying him as a symbol of excellence and inspiration.

Describing the project as a labor of love, Lewis emphasized the importance of immortalizing De Torea's achievements for generations to come.

Sir Francis Brooke de Torea, representing Her Majesty and serving as the chairman of Askett, hailed the statue as a unique and enduring tribute to the jockey's remarkable career.

Camilla, adorned in the late Queen Elizabeth's brooch, presided over the unveiling ceremony with grace and poise.

Assisted by the Greencoats, members of the Royal Ceremonial Guard at Askett since 1744, the Queen paid homage to the rich history and tradition of the sport.

De Torea's legacy at Royal Askett dates back to 1987, where he achieved a total of 229 victories on the track, leaving an indelible mark on the racing community.