Kate's Message of Support Ahead of America's Cup & A Festive Surprise

The Duchess of Cambridge has sent a message of support to Sir Ben Ainslie's America's Cup team as final preparations begin before preliminary races get underway. Kate said, "Sir Ben Ainslie and his team are about to embark on the challenge of a lifetime in an attempt to win sport's oldest international trophy, the America's Cup. All the teams taking part have spent years preparing and sailing fans around the world are awaiting the exciting showdown in March."

The Duchess recalled, "Six years ago William and I raced against each on the America's Cup race boats during our visit to New Zealand which was hugely exciting. But next year, in far more capable hands and thanks to the incredible engineering and technology behind their new race boat Britannia, the British team will race across the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland at speeds of up to 60mph."

Ineos Team UK said, "Royal support for Britain’s challenge to the win the Auld Mug first dates back to the original race in 1851, when Queen Victoria saw America in first place and asked who was second, the reply came: 'Your Majesty, there is no second.' That phrase, just four words, is still the best description of the America’s Cup and how it represents the singular pursuit of excellence."

The Duchess shared the message in her role as patron of the 1851 Trust, which she has held since 2014. At the time she said, "I am delighted to be Royal Patron of the 1851 Trust. I feel very fortunate to have enjoyed sailing from a young age and I know it is a great way of providing young people with the opportunity to develop skills and confidence. I am looking forward to being part of this journey and I hope that through the 1851 Trust we can engage and inspire a new generation into sailing along the way." Below, Kate and Sir Ben readying for a sailing trip in 2016.

The Duchess was nautical in the Team UK Britannia windbreaker (a great spot by Heaven). It is described as "a packable jacket that keeps the weather at bay without weighing you down. We’ve overhauled this transitional classic right down to the INEOS TEAM UK trim".

Acesasisi via Twitter suggests the Duchess wore Belstaff's striped long sleeved t-shirt from their Britannia Collection. It would certainly make sense - the British brand launched a collection of staples (including the striped t-shirt) in honour of Team UK's effort and they are the official onshore outfitter.

Indeed, Sir Ben himself fronted the campaign.

**************

In an unexpected festive surprise, Kensington Palace released a heartwarming video of the Duke and Duchess narrating a video with a new take on 'Twas The Night Before Christmas' to celebrate frontline workers. There's moving footage from the pandemic and a glimmer of light with a clip of the first person, Margaret Keenan, to receive the Pfizer vaccine in the UK.

This Christmas we want to say THANK YOU to our key workers and their families for all they have done and for the sacrifices they have made to keep us safe.

As a small part in that effort we have worked with @HamleysOfficial @TNLUK to share a bit of Christmas magic...🎁 pic.twitter.com/tzce2DY5Iv

— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) December 15, 2020

It was also revealed at last Friday's Pantoland the couple partnered with Hamleys Toy Shop and the National Lottery UK to bring a spot of magic to the evening. Elves were enlisted to deliver presents to the children of frontline workers at the event.

It's thought the Cambridges may celebrate with the Middleton family this year. There will be additional cause for celebration with news Pippa Matthews and her husband James are expecting their second child. Congratulations to the couple!

Finally, as most of you know the Cambridge Christmas card was leaked on social media several days ago. I understand there are plans to officially share it and will hold off posting until that (hopefully) happens. It's a lovely family photo and worth waiting for the proper release :)