Did jockey Rachael Blackmore break Royal protocol by giving Queen Camilla kiss as she celebrated Cheltenham victory?
DID Rachael Blackmore break protocol when embracing Queen Camilla following her Cheltenham Festival victory?
The Irish star, 34, won the Champions' Chase on Captain Guinness as Willie Mullins' pre-race favourite El Fabiolo pulled up.
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After the win, Blackmore went up to receive her trophy and was met by Queen Camilla.
But rather than adhering to the protocol of curtsying, the pair proceeded to kiss on the cheek.
However, Blackmore did NOT do anything wrong as it is only against the rules to initiate touching with a member of the Royal family if the royal does not offer it.
On this occasions, Queen Camilla went in for the kiss before Blackmore obliged.
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It comes after Frankie Dettori did actually break protocol at Royal Ascot last summer.
However, there is no punishment for this offence.
The usual greeting to royals is a neck bow from men, while women do a small curtsy.
Meanwhile, Blackmore was over the moon following her victory.
"So pleased for his owner. He has been knocking on the door.
"It is incredible to win this, just incredible and so happy to do it on this horse. He always runs his race. He is enthusiastic."
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