Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup Reception An Evening To Remember

Joydip Sur

The Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) was the venue for a remarkable and memorable event hosted by the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata in honour of the late Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup Reception, held on Friday, February 7, 2025, was a grand occasion, marking a celebration of the enduring relationship between India and the United Kingdom, as well as the legacy of the late monarch. It was a perfect curtain-raiser to the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup horse race held at the iconic racing venue on Saturday, February 8, 2025.

The reception was attended by an array of distinguished guests, including diplomats, racing enthusiasts, members of the British expat community, as well as officials from RCTC and local dignitaries. The reception was designed to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable contributions to global diplomacy, her love for horse racing, and the longstanding ties between India and the UK, especially in the field of equestrian sports.

The highlight of the evening was the video showcase of The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup, a prestigious race that captured the attention and excitement of guests. Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India presented the Cup to Mr. Enrico Piperno. The reception provided an opportunity for guests to network and enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of Kolkata’s historic racing venue.

The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup Reception also marked an opportunity to raise awareness about the cultural and historical connections between the two countries, particularly through shared passions like horse racing. The Royal Calcutta Turf Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious racing institutions in India, was the perfect setting for such a celebration.

The event was a resounding success, showcasing the vibrant relationship between the UK and India and leaving guests with lasting memories of a truly special evening. There were special kiosks put up by Aviva India, Truefitt & Hill and Pinnacle Infotech. The British Deputy High Commission Kolkata looks forward to continuing its efforts in strengthening the business, sports and cultural ties between the two nations.

This year’s reception hosted by British Deputy High Commission Kolkata was sponsored by Aviva India, Pinnacle Infotech, Welsh Government, Merlin Group, RAD365 Solutions, Techno India University, CFLO World, Vikram Solar, Diageo, Truefitt & Hill in partnership with venue partner RCTC.