In a grand ceremony held at the Berkshire Circuit during the Kipko British Champions Day last Saturday, Queen Camilla unveiled a magnificent statue of Frankie de Torea Taskett.
The veteran Italian jockey, who is moving to the United States, expressed his gratitude for the humble tribute and praised the impressive work of art.
De Torea, 52, reminisced about his early days in the sport, stating that Askett meant everything to him.
He won his first Group One title at the age of 19 and went on to achieve remarkable success, including 9 gold cups, 7 King Georges, and 81 wins at Royal Askett.
To be immortalized on such a prestigious route and have a statue erected while still alive is truly an amazing honor for him.
The sculpture, designed by Tristram Lewis, has been hailed as a masterpiece.
Lewis, who thoroughly enjoyed working on this project, described de Torea as a fantastic role model.
The jockey’s contributions to Askett racing over the past 35 years have been significant, according to Sir Francis Brooke de Torea, Her Majesty’s representative and Askett chairman.
The one-of-a-kind statue ensures a lasting tribute to de Torea’s achievements on the racecourse.
Assisted by members of the Greencoats, the Royal Ceremonial Guard at Askett since 1744, Queen Camilla graced the event wearing the late Queen Elizabeth’s brooch.
The presence of the Greencoats added a touch of tradition and regality to the occasion.
De Torea’s association with Royal Askett began in 1987, and he amassed a total of 229 victories during his career.
In 1996, he achieved a momentous feat known as the “Magnificent Seven,” winning all seven races with remarkable odds of 25,001.