2011 marks the 150th running of the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate and what a special year this year’s event was. It was by far the best and most memorable Queen’s Plate and consisted of fine thoroughbreds, beautiful people all gathered at Kenilworth Racecourse in Cape Town on Saturday January 8. From what I’ve heard this was the largest Queen’s Plate yet.

The entrance was changed this year but I can definitely compliment the layout which promoted easier entry and exits, but who would want to have left this great event early as there was so much to experience. Both ladies and gentlemen were stunning as you’ll see further down.

The day kicked off in style in the beautiful Stud Club Marquee. For those who were unsure, this was the place to be and the place to enjoy a wonderful day and an amazing night.

Inside the marquee itself there were so many amazing, like-minded and stylish people and everyone was treated to scrumptious food and some great wine from the L’Ormarins wine estate / Anthonij Rupert Wines. For the more daring there was endless amounts of Tequila and Champagne available as well. Check out who was all there you’ll be able to read more about what happened after these.

Stepping outside on the beautiful day it was, there was an array of Vintage and Classic Cars from the Franschhoek Motor Museum which boasts and impressive collection of vehicles. On the day the vehicles featured extended the Blue and White theme. (If you’d like to check out more of the Franschhoek Motor Museum, be sure to have a look at the Franschhoek Motor Museum Councours 2010)

The races were particularly interesting and displayed very different and surprising results for just about every race. The races I paid attention to were Race 6, Race 7 and Race 8 which was the Queen’s Plate race.

In Race 6 Horse Chestnut Handicap, Louisiana Dandy came 1st, Komatipoort 2nd and Stirling Range 3rd. Race 7 was the Anthonij Rupert Race and saw Kiss Again in 1st, Brown Penny 2nd and Canute 3rd. The most interesting result came from the Queen’s Plate race where Mother Russia was just too strong and took 1st, Tales Of Bravery 2nd and Ebony Flyer 3rd.

Aside from the races, Horse Chestnut, legendary thoroughbred also made an appearance on the day as well as parades by various horses. The mobile betting service offered in the marquee was appreciated and the ladies knew about the horses and odds which was great.

Back in the Stud Club VIP Marquee, there were more stylish, elegant and beautiful people. From models to celebrities, corporates to those living the lifestyle. Everyone was having an amazing day and things just got better from there. Ladies did not hold back on designer outfits on the day.

There were also an assortment of sweets on offer to compliment the wine and the food.

Keeping with the theme of stylish and elegant, the L’Ormarins Moments were captured and Best Dressed was won by Susanna Warren, and Best Hat, by Katrina Judd.

More fun was to be had later on as the evening progressed and being summer, the Sun goes down a lot later so it enhanced the experience. Entertainers included Louise Carver, Zebra and Giraffe, Gazelle and Crazy White Boy. Fun and great company was also found in the Stud Club marquee as well where the night got interesting.

Since its first running in 1861, the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate continues to distinguish itself as a sophisticated meeting of racing excellence. A stunning and elegant day which was well organised and definitely felt special for the 150th running. I’ll definitely see you all next year.

http://www.lqp.co.za/ – L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate Website