The Queen Elizabeth II Cup: A Legacy from a Legendary Era
Over half a century ago in 1972, the late Queen Elizabeth II made her state visit to Singapore for the first time, accompanied by the late Prince Philip and Princess Anne. Being an avid racegoer and racehorse breeder, Her Majesty made sure to put in a stop at the Bukit Timah Racecourse and was received by the then-chairman of Singapore Turf Club, the late Tan Sri Dr Runme Shaw.
It was a commemorative moment when the Singapore Turf Club hosted a race named in her honour, which drew a crowd close to 26,000.
And this marked the beginning of the Queen Elizabeth II Cup.
Then-chairman of the Singapore Turf Club, the late Tan Sri Dr Runme Shaw (left),
the late Queen Elizabeth II (centre) and Princess Anne (right) on 20 February 1972 at the Queen Elizabeth II Cup.
A race for top connections and fashionistas
The Queen Elizabeth II Cup is one of the most prestigious events in the horse racing world. Open to horses aged three years and above, the race has evolved into a lead-up race to the Singapore Gold Cup. Covering a distance of 1800m, the Queen Elizabeth II Cup is now a weight-for-age race with a prize purse of $300,000, attracting top-class horses and jockeys.
A nod to the late Queen’s iconic fashion sense, the Grandstand of the Queen Elizabeth II Cup often sees racegoers dressed in their race day best with female guests sporting trendy fascinators.
Distinguished guests showcase fashionable style, complemented by their favourite fascinators.
The Legendary Figures
The Queen Elizabeth II Cup has witnessed some remarkable moments over the years. In 1972, the Cup was won by legendary English jockey Lester Piggott and the Ivan Allan-trained top galloper, Jumbo Jet. In 1989, the race was sponsored for the first and only time, known as the Vacheron Constantin Queen Elizabeth II Cup, when Uncompromising won by a nose.
In 2006, 34 years after their first visit, the late Queen Elizabeth II and late Prince Philip made history again with a second visit to the Singapore Turf Club - this time at the Kranji Racecourse - further cementing the significance of the Queen Elizabeth II Cup. On that memorable day, jockey Richard Lim and Steven Burridge-trained King And King clinched the trophy.
But it is not just the big names that are worth a place in the history of the Cup. Among the many horses, jockeys, and trainers who contributed to the Cup, now-retired trainer Teh Choon Beng holds the record for the most victories in the Cup, with an impressive eight wins. Malcolm Thwaites also emerged as a dominant force in the race, securing victory four times.
The late Queen Elizabeth II at the Singapore Turf Club on 20 February 1972
with trainer Ivan Allan after Jumbo Jet won the Queen Elizabeth II Cup.
Looking on are Princess Anne and jockey Lester Piggott.
The British High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr Gordon Duggan
presenting a crystal vase to winning trainer Teh Choon Beng.
A Fitting Salute
The Queen Elizabeth II Cup holds a special place in the hearts of all horse racing lovers. It is not just a race; it is a symbol. It represents the horse racing community's love for horses and their passion and dedication for the sport. As we bid this iconic race adieu, let us remember the moments of triumph and the unforgettable memories that have shaped the Queen Elizabeth II Cup into the prestigious event that it is.
In pictures, the coveted Queen Elizabeth II Cup trophy.
