OTTAWA – Canad’s most distinguished citizens wined and dined with royalty yesterday.

An elite group of 50 – one for each year of Queen Elizabeth’s reign – sipped Niagara Chardonnay and nibbled Miramichi Bay lobster to celebrate the Golden Jubilee. The elegant Thanksgiving luncheon event, which was several months in the making, was held at the posh ballroom of Rideau hall.

The invitees rose from their seats to toast the Queen, who gracefully entered the room in a cerise outfit as strings softly played the royal anthem.

Gov. Gen. Adrienne Clarkson welcomed the “extraordinary” guests – except for an Artic filmmaker who was unable to attend due to a snowstorm.

“Each person here represents a defining moment in the modern consciousness of our nation,” Clarkson said. Praising the honourees for their role in shaping Canada’s identity, Clarkson said the athletes, visionaries and artists have enriched all our lives.

Music legend Stompin’ Tom Connors, outfitted for the occasion in a grey suit, signature cowboy hat and belt buckle with a horseshoe, gave the outdoor crowd a broad smile and a big wink after the lunch. He called it a “great day” for Canada to celebrate a great Queen from a great era. He never doffed the hat, even during the royal salute.

Earlier, the Queen toured the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Equestrian Centre, on a crisp, clear autumn morning in sharp contrast to the rainy weather endured the day before.

Greeted by adoring members of the public who cheered with delight, Elizabeth signed a guest book before unveiling a plaque commemorating the official opening of the centre.

After a walkabout, the Queen was treated to an abbreviated version of the Musical Ride, which features 32 proud thoroughbreds riding in patterns to music.

After presenting a mare from the Royal Stables, which will join the Ride in 2004, the Queen accepted a small bouquet of red roses from Heather Moxley, 16.