The L’Ormarins Queen Plate first came to South Africa in 1861 and is now one of South Africa’s most prestigious events. When the event first started on South African soil, the primary focus was purely horse racing. However, since then this lavish event has gone on to attract many individuals for many other reasons.
Saturday 9th January 2016 marked the 155th anniversary of the L’Ormarins Queen Plates, and this event did not go unnoticed in the elite South African community. In 2014, UK newspaper The Telegraph identified the L’Ormarins Queen Plate as one of the top five race days in the world alongside the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe and the Dubai World Cup and this year was no different.
“The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate has a rich history and is a defining moment in the international horse racing calendar. Every year we strive to maintain strict standards of elegance and leisure while building on the successes of the past. LQP 2016 will deliver everything people have come to expect, plus a few surprises,” said Katherine Gray, coordinator of LQP 2016.
The scenery is another element that adds to this event. The venue has been described as beautiful, as it provides a luxurious environment to enjoy the days racing in nothing but pure comfort with a range of food and wine.
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The event has been divided into sessions such as Stud Club, which is a decorated area with private bars, private totes, a lounge area and cocktail seating. The Chef’s Table is a private area which also features a private bar section. In addition to this, each guest received a special gift and complimentary food and wine from Anthonij Rupert Wyne. The most deluxe area of The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate is The Kenilworth room. With these tickets not only do guest receive a special gift but also access to the BMW and Franschhoek Motor Museum car display. These tickets also provide access to the after party and many other luxurious goodies.
The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plates has also been recognised for the number of celebrities that attend; over the years, the number of high-class South African celebrities have increased. The event has seen the likes of Nicola Breytenbach, Kia Johnson, and Shashi Naidoo. The latest celebrity being South African TV personality, Bonang Matheba, this was her first experience, and she had a fantastic time. In addition to this, her outfit also made a statement and is another reason why the elite community loves this particular event.
The LQP is also the perfect opportunity to showcase for people to showcase their posh frocks and is considered one of Cape Town’s most stylish events. Those who attended the event are asked to comply with the white and blue dress code adding to the beautiful scenery, as everyone is dressed in unison. The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate also features a best-dressed competition with prizes such as a trip for two in London, a Cartier Cashmere Blanket, an Estée Lauder Hamper and two tickets to attend L’Ormarins Luncheon at Goodwood in July.
The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate is one of South Africa’s most lavish events and is always a night to remember.
AT THE RACES – THE 155th RUNNING OF L’ORMARINS QUEEN’S PLATE
