London (CNN) -- Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe, the Kentucky Derby, the Melbourne Cup ... the leading horse-racing nations of the world all have a showpiece event that makes aficionados and casual observers alike stop in their tracks for 10 short minutes as a nation collectively bates its breath over the winner. But few sporting venues can match the rich history and heritage of Britain's Royal Ascot. The English racecourse celebrates its tri-centenary this year -- it was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne -- with its 300 years of pageantry, fashion and traditions firmly intact. As well as being one of the most important elite race meetings in the world, this week's Royal Ascot is the jewel in the crown of the English "summer season" -- a whirl of society events in the warmest months of the year that includes the likes of rowing's Henley Royal Regatta and the Wimbledon Tennis Championships.
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Britain's most glamorous horse-racing event celebrates its tri-centenary this week
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Royal Ascot is the jewel in the crown of the English summer "season"
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Queen Elizabeth II has been attending Royal Ascot since before her reign began
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The real spectacle of Royal Ascot is arguably the fashion -- in particular the hats
But it is with Royal Ascot, a perennial favorite of the current @placeholder, that the season seems properly to get underway each year.