The King’s Champion: Rooted in Medieval HistoryThe King's Champion is a ceremonial role that dates back to medieval times, and its origins are shrouded in legend. By the time of Queen Victoria's coronation in 1838, the Champion's role had been reduced to carrying a standard into the coronation procession. The King’s Champion, rode in on horseback, armored, with gauntlet, ceremonial lance and shield drawn below. The Dymoke family has held the role of King's Champion ever since, and Francis Dymoke will be the 34th member of his family to take part in a coronation. Top image: T he Third and Last Challenge by the King’s Champion during King George IV's Coronation Banquet in Westminster Hall, by Denis Dighton.

Source: ABC News April 29, 2023 19:59 UTC