Queen’s “great” insight into horse fitness demonstrates her breadth of knowledge as an owner.

Reach for the Moon, the Queen’s horse, will compete in the Hampton Court Stakes at Royal Ascot, according to trainer John Gosden. The colt was rerouted to the big summer meeting after missing the Derby at Epsom.

The Queen’s “great” insight into horse fitness has influenced the training of her top contender for Royal Ascot.

Reach For The Moon, the bookies’ favourite for the Hampton Court Stakes, is being prepared for the big race in Newmarket by John Gosden.

After the colt suffered an injury last September, time was running out to get him to the Derby in peak condition. In his absence, the Queen was left without a runner in the only Flat race.

Reach For The Moon began his season with a second-place finish at Sandown in May, where he set out to win the race under Frankie Dettori. The royal match was then identified as his next target – and Gosden stated that thanks to Her Majesty’s patient approach, he is confident he will perform to the best of his ability on June 16.

“The great thing about Her Majesty, who is both the horse’s owner and breeder – she said ‘you do what’s right for the horse,'” Gosden said.

“It was clear that pushing and forcing my way to Epsom was the wrong thing to do.”

He could go a mile and a half in time, but he couldn’t get there (Epsom). We’re taking good care of the horse, I’m pleased with him, and we’re looking forward to Hampton Court.”

Reach For The Moon, who had been installed as one of the Derby favourites, was injured during a routine canter in Newmarket. Gosden added that his charge spent three months recuperating at the Sandringham estate’s stud before resuming training.

“It’s a long road back from things like that,” Gosden added. “It’s fantastic that he’s returned; it’s a testament to the horse and the care that he’s received. He’s quite the character; he enjoys playing and exudes a lot of spirit.