It’s been a great Royal Ascot so far and we’ve not even reached the half way stage yet. Day 3 see’s the feature race of the week; The Ascot Gold Cup, where king of the staying division Stradivarius will be going for a record equalling forth win in the race.
Race 1: Norfolk Stakes (Group 2)
Like father like son. No Ney Never won this in 2013 and this year’s renewal can go the way of his son Cadamosto. He was impressive when winning his Dundalk maiden which saw Ryan Moore make a rare visit to the track, the signs showed that they think a lot of this colt.
Go Bears Go is another for the shortlist and has already tasted Ascot success. He looks a very smart performer, and any rain would benefit him more than others.
Race 2: Hampton Court Stakes (Group 3)
It was a brave decision from the connections of Mohaafeth to withdraw the horse from the Derby when conditions became too soft at Epsom last month. He’ll find things very much to his liking today and should have too much class for his opposition.
The greatest threat should come from Secret Protector who is a consistent performer which can’t be said for many in the race.
Race 3: Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2)
Based on her second to Snowfall in the Musidora Stakes, Noon Star looks the one to be with. That is the best form in the race, and it is expected for the Sir Michael Stoute trained filly to have improved further as most of his runners do.
Eshaada is the only unbeaten runner in the line-up and it wouldn’t be a huge shock if she remains that way. This is a step up in trip which shouldn’t be a problem, but it is a big step up in class. One or too more experienced rivals may just get the better of her if it turns into a battle.
Race 4: Gold Cup (Group 1)
You would struggle to find a more popular winner than Stradivarius as he goes for Gold for a fourth time. He’s been the king of the staying division for a number of years so its possible a new kid on the block may finally get the better of him.
Our each way pick is Santiago who was an impressive winner at the meeting last year before going on to land the Irish Derby. This is a big step up in distance but if he can stay the trip, he has the class to win.
Race 5: Britannia Stakes
Trainer George Scott has never had a winner at Ascot and he can land his first on the biggest stage of all with George Peabody. He gets weight from all his rivals, has improved on both runs and looks to have been overlooked in the betting.
Aerion Power is also worth a look. He’s won his last 3 starts and the handicapper hasn’t put him up too much for those successes. He could still be well handicapped, but it might be tough from stall 1.
Race 6: King George V Stakes
John Gosden said recently he can’t remember training a poorer group of 3-year-olds but one that may turn out to be more than useful is First Light. You will not find an easier winner than his maiden success and whilst it is difficult to judge the form, he is worth a chance in this race.
Sir Lamorak is your favourite for Aidan O’Brien. He carries top weight, and his form isn’t the most convincing so can be easily disregarded.
Race 7: Buckingham Palace Stakes
As with previous days this week, the last race is very tricky. Aldaary is the clear favourite but he underperformed with no notable excuses when last seen.
If ever there was a race tailormade for Bedouin’s Story then this is it. He will be held up near rear and he’ll be flying past beaten horses as they near the finish. He is the one to be with.
