Today, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, accompanied by Princess Charlotte, graced the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, with their presence, adding a touch of royal charm to the event.
The festivities, which began on July 28 and will continue until August 8, saw the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at the opening ceremony. They arrived in a 1970 Aston Martin, notable for its eco-friendly adaptation to run on E85 bioethanol, a fuel derived from the byproducts of English wine and cheese production.
Discover more about the Games from People’s coverage by Monique Jessen.
The Commonwealth Games, a quadrennial event, invites athletes from 72 member states to compete in a variety of sports. Originally known as the British Empire Games, the event has been a staple since 1930, with the exception of interruptions in 1942 and 1946. The royal family frequently attends, underscoring their support and patronage.
And from an Express article.
Representing the Queen, Prince Charles engaged with volunteers and athletes at the University of Birmingham prior to the opening ceremony, emphasizing the Games as a moment of unity and friendly competition within the Commonwealth.
Other senior royals, including the Earl and Countess of Wessex, have also been active participants, with the Queen serving as the royal patron and Prince Edward as Vice Patron.
The opening ceremony dazzled attendees with a spectacular fireworks display.
England has hosted the Commonwealth Games three times, with previous events in London in 1934 and Manchester in 2002. Learn more about the Games from the Royal Family’s official site.
The Games are celebrated for their spirit of camaraderie and fair play, often referred to as the ‘Friendly Games’. They aim to foster a sense of community and shared destiny among the diverse nations of the Commonwealth.
The Wessex family has been a constant presence at the Games, with Princess Anne and her husband, Sir Tim Laurence, joining them to watch rugby last Friday.
Today, Princess Charlotte had the opportunity to meet Perry the bull, the official mascot of the Games, marking a memorable moment during her first solo royal engagement with her parents.
More insights into Princess Charlotte’s participation from Simon Perry’s People article.
This marks a significant first for Charlotte, attending a royal event without her brothers. She has previously been seen at events with her older brother, Prince George, and younger brother, Prince Louis, who have also had their moments in the spotlight.
