Frederik's affection for Mary was clear even before their engagement was announced |
Frederik first set eyes on Tasmanian-born marketing executive Mary Donaldson at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. They had arrived in a hotel bar with different groups of friends, and the crown prince introduced himself simply as "Fred" when they met. Before long the two were engrossed in conversation and they started dating soon afterwards. Over the next three years they grew increasingly close and, in April 2003, Queen Margrethe formally acknowledged what the Danish press had already guessed – the heir to the throne had fallen in love. Reflecting on their romance, Mary says she and her husband-to-be enjoy a "connection of the mind" as well as having great fun together. They also share a love of outdoor pursuits, which will be much in evidence when they compete against each other in the Danish Royal Regatta, just a few days before making their vows. |
