Queen Elizabeth continues Royal Ascot tradition as monarch misses race week for first time ever

Queen Elizabeth is missing Royal Ascot for the first time in her 68-year reign.

However, Her Majesty is still carrying on at least one tradition of her beloved race week, which kicks off today.

The 94-year-old wrote a letter to introduce the racecards on a Windsor Castle letterhead, where she is isolating with Prince Philip amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"We are honoured that Her Majesty The Queen has, as normal, written the introduction to our racecards," Royal Ascot tweeted alongside a photo of the letter.

The annual horse racing meet is being held behind closed doors due to the on-going COVID-19 outbreak in the UK.

This means The Queen, 94, and Duke of Edinburgh, 99, will watch the event on television from the comfort of her own home (read: castle).

While the monarch, who has horses competing in some of the races this year, will be sad to miss the event, she sounded delighted for the return of the sport.

"I send my best wishes to the thousands of racing professionals and enthusiasts who will join me in celebrating this year's Royal Ascot," Her Majesty wrote in the letter, shared on social media.

"In these challenging times, we are once again delighted to welcome the best horses and jockeys from across the world and pay tribute to those who have helped make this race meeting possible.

"This year Ascot will feel different for many, as it is so often a chance for friends, families and colleagues to gather together and enjoy a shared passion.

"I am sure however, that with the valiant efforts of the organisers, owners, trainers and stable staff, it will remain one of Britain's finest sporting occasions and a highlight of the racing calendar.

"To everyone attending Royal Ascot, in person or virtually, I hope you have a most enjoyable and unique week of racing," she added, signing off Elizabeth Regina.

In 2013, Queen Elizabeth became the first reigning monarch in Royal Ascot's 207-year history to win the prestigious Gold Cup when her horse Estimate took out the race.