ROYAL ASCOT 2003 

Analysis & Selections by

"a rØøk"

Whether it be "the race of the day" or a small prize round the gaffs, we will attempt to use our knowledge of the formbook to highlight the fancied horses participating each day and their characteristics and requirements. Hopefully this 'second opinion' provides you with a winner or two each day, or even reinforces your own view on a particular may even convince you to back some of those horses which we feel are the "ones to fear", or have decent eachway claims. whichever is the case, we hope the information is of use to you.

SELECTIONS - For each race, we have given you who, in our view, are the likeliest winners; (1er _ THE WINNER?), as well as any runners who could run well at eachway odds; (E/W ALTERNATIVE). Any runner from our features are shown before each race's analysis.

ROYAL ASCOT 
Saturday, June 21.
|¯¯¯"First¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 2.30 Sandringham Rated Stakes [A H` cap] [Listed Race] 1mile~ Penalty £34800 3-Year-Olds only fillies 1st - £34,800, 2nd - £13,150, 3rd - £6,550, 4th - £2,950 12 Declared
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- The final day of the meeting opens with an interesting-looking handicap over a mile. I can't work out whether to suggest to you Chic (improving filly who steps up to listed company after an easy success at Kempton last time out), Londonnetdotcom (2nd to Aldora, beaten 1 ½ lengths at Epsom in a similar event at the Derby meeting), Sissy Slew (lightly-raced filly from Dermot Weld's yard), Hold To Ransom (6th behind Cassis in the Musidora last time out at York), Nasij (probably didn't stay behind Sun On The Sea at Newbury last time out), Oblige (worth considering after good effort behind Ocean Silk last time out at Goodwood) and Wondrous Story (a long shot who should come on for her encouraging 5th behind Aldora at the Derby meeting on her reappearance). 

I like what I've seen from Chic this term and I'm loathed to desert her, especially as connections thought enough of her to leave her in a Group 1 event until the final declaration stage. She is the most likely to prevail and it would seem silly to desert her. Should she disappoint, Nasij and Wondrous Story appeal as each-way alternatives. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Chic
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Wondrous Story (e/w)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Nasij

|¯¯¯"Second¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.05 Hardwicke Stakes [A] [Group 2] 1mile~4f Penalty £87000 4-Year-Olds plus 1st - £87,000, 2nd - £32,620, 3rd - £16,120, 4th - £7,120 10 Declared 
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- This must be one of the most competitive renewals of the Hardwicke Stakes in recent memory and it is very difficult to eliminate any of the ten runners on first inspection. As much as I will say is that it is quite obvious with Zindabad, Bandari and possibly Rawyaan in the lineup it is almost certain that this is going to be run strongly from starting stalls to winning post. This probably plays into the hands of the 'come from behind' horses which means it's probably to make cases for why it's easier to suggest Highest (2nd in the Coronation Cup behind Warrsan), Princely Adventure (relatively exposed colt who won on his reappearance at Ascot), Bollin Eric (3rd to Mamool in the Yorkshire Cup), Parasol (progressive 4-year-old who probably should still be unbeaten this season after an unlucky-in-running 2nd behind Sights On Gold at Sandown last time out) and Balakheri (ran by far his best race for months when chasing home Ange Gabriel at Chantilly last time out).

By far the most interesting of these runners is Princely Venture. Back in Group company after disappointing in last year's Irish Derby. Connections have always held him in high regard and it wouldn't surprise me if he didn't go close here. He's the sporting selection. If Highest runs to form, he should again make the frame. Parasol is preferred to Bollin Eric for each-way support.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Princely Venture
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Highest
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Parasol (e/w)

|¯¯¯"Third¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.45 Golden Jubilee Stakes [A] [Group 1] 6f Penalty £145000 3-Year-Olds plus 1st - £145,000, 2nd - £54,320, 3rd - £26,820, 4th - £11,820 23 Declared 
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- The Group 1 Golden Jubilee Stakes comes next and despite the short price of the market leader Airwave, it's interesting that 22 opponents are prepared to take her on. Although in some cases they only represent each-way value, I can understand why
Malhub, Choisir, Continent, Firebreak, Just James, Belle Du Jour, Nayyir, Polar Way, Twilight Blues, Danehurst, Three Points, Morluc, Captain Rio, Khulood, Zipping and Danger Over are worth a look at in your papers/PCs. 

I think before this week Airwave in many people's eyes was a cast-iron banker, particularly as she sliced her way through the field to beat Repertory hard-held by 3 lengths after giving away at least 5 lengths with a tardy start. Even allowing for the quality of field, you could not fail to be impressed . Now you have a little more reason for concern because. a) this race is far more competitive than that previous run at Sandown, but more significantly; b) Australia's 'pocket rocket' Choisir is going to blaze the trail again and it's quite possible that she could win her race on the stand side, yet struggle against him and anything running on the far side with him. For this reason alone, there may be some value in taking her on with either Choisir, fellow countrywoman Belle Du Jour (who is now with Dermot Weld's yard) who will probably improve on her first run on these shores and Continent and Zipping, who need a strong pace to show their best form - a combination of Airwave and one of these each way may well prove best here. I'll take a chance with Zipping. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Zipping (e/w)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Airwave
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Choisir (AUS)
¦ 4th Place? ¦.¬»-- Belle Du Jour (AUS)

|¯¯¯"Fourth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.20 Wokingham Stakes [H` cap] [B] 6f Penalty £58000 3-Year-Olds plus 1st - £58,000, 2nd - £21,815, 3rd - £10,815, 4th - £4,815 30 Declared 
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- The minefield that is the Wokingham comes next. So open is the race, 
Patavellian, Fire Up The Band, The Tatling, Border Subject, Capricho, Banjo Bay, Namroud, Ratio, Royal Millennium, Torosay Spring, Vanderlin, Curfew, Fayr Jag, Halmahera, Onlytime Will Tell, Loyal Tycoon, Atlantic Viking, Budelli, Pic Up Sticks, Kathology, Mitcham and Peruvian Chief are all worth a cursory look in the form book here.

Like the previous race, I'm staying where I believe the strongest pace is likeliest. So with Border Subject (drawn 10), Fire Up The Band (19) and Patavellian (23) on the far side, again I think it likeliest that the winner will come from this side. I was very keen on Patavellian' s chance yesterday and again I can see him running well here, especially as he has been laid out for this event. He can go a strong gallop from flag-fall, stays further than this trip and should go close. However, this race is being teed up for something to come from behind and steal it and that's what I think Curfew will do. She ran very sweetly until a lack of fitness told behind Presto Vento in a Listed event over 7 furlongs 42 days ago, and if she gets a run here don't be surprised if she steals away into the money. French raider Ratio and Sir Michael Stoute's Namroud are others I'd consider for the same reasons.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Curfew (e/w)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Patavellian
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Ratio
¦ 4th Place? ¦.¬»-- Namroud

|¯¯¯"Fifth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.55 Windsor Castle Stakes [Conditions Race] [B] 5f Penalty £23200 2-Year-Olds only 1st - £23,200, 2nd - £8,630, 3rd - £4,230, 4th - £1,830 18 Declared 
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- The penultimate race of the evening is the competitive-looking Windsor Castle Stakes. Howick Falls and Waterstone who met at Newcastle a month ago head the market, however Holborn, Kingdom Come, Skyharbor, Harry Up, Shank On Fourteen, Vienna's Boy, Bachelor Of Arts, Bo McGinty, Kensington and Trick Cyclist also have chances of sorts. Mark Johnston's two-year-olds have been flying at the meeting and there will be many punters who will be punting in the belief that his Waterstone will reverse form with Howick Falls. However, I wouldn't be surprised if both of these were overturned by Holborn who ran really well behind Newton (who never gave his running this week) at The Curragh at the end of last month. Mick Shannon's horses have run well at the meeting and I'd expect his runner here to make a bold bid for glory. Bachelor Of Arts and Kensington look the best each-way bets. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Holborn (UAE)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Waterstone
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Bachelor Of Arts (e/w)

|¯¯¯"Sixth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 5.30 Queen Alexandra Stakes [Conditions Race] [B] 2miles~6f 34yds Penalty £23200 4-Year-Olds plus 1st - £23,200, 2nd - £8,625, 3rd - £4,225, 4th - £1,825 14 Declared 
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¦ "a rØøk" ¦.¬»-- It is very difficult to get away from Cover Up who won this event last year. Only Taffrail who finished last behind Mr Dinos in the Henry II Stakes, Looks Like Trouble (the former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner who impressed when winning an amateurs flat race last week), Swing Wing ( a good 3rd behind Gamut at Newbury on his seasonal reappearance) and Double Honour (formerly a useful stayer with Mark Johnston who did well over hurdles last season) make any appeal. It would be lovely to see Looks Like Trouble in the winner's enclosure at Royal Ascot, however realistically the best he can hope for is an honourable placing. As I seem to have been particularly brave today, let's end the meeting with a potential bang - Swing Wing's form over a shorter trip makes most appeal to me and I'd have a little investment on him in the hope he stays this extreme distance.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦.¬»-- Swing Wing
¦ ²nd Place? ¦.¬»-- Cover Up
¦ ³rd Place? ¦.¬»-- Looks Like Trouble (e/w)

ROYAL ASCOT
Friday, June 20. 
Delayed due to family commitments... apologies for any inconvenience caused.
|¯¯"First¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 2.30 Albany Stakes {A} {Listed Race} 6f Penalty £23200 2-Year-Olds only fillies. 1st - £23,200, 2nd - £8,620, 3rd - £4,220, 4th - £1,820 12 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Tolzey, [2 ½lengths behind Attraction at Beverley last time out], Malaica, [unbeaten so far this season, her recent win being at Chantilly at the end of May, where she beat Bits Of Paradise by a short head], Letsimpress, [a fair third to Miss Childrey at Naas on her most recent start), Silca' s Gift, (who won cosily on her debut at Windsor) and Farewell to Arms, [totally unfancied when finishing second to Caldy Dancer at Chester at the end of May], make most appeal in the opener. Tolzey 's claims look obvious, however there was plenty to like about Malaica two performance and it isn't too hard to imagine her making the frame... she'll do for me. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Malaica, [e/w if you prefer]
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Tolzey,
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Silca' s Gift,

|¯¯"Second¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 3.05 King Edward Vii Stakes {A} {Group 2} 1mile~4f Penalty £95120 3-Year-Olds only colts and geldings. 1st - £95,120, 2nd - £2,765, 3rd - £1,225, 4th - £385 10 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Difficult to be enthusiastic about Alberto Giacometti, Summerland, and Strength 'n Honour, who finished down the field in the Derby. This looks to be between Big Bad Bob, [who chased home Kris Kin in the Dee Stakes (Group 3) at Chester], Delsarte, [unbeaten so far, who hails from a stable in top form at the meeting... (there was plenty to like about the manner in he strode away to win at Newmarket last timeout) and High Accolade, [who readily disposed of Unigold and Westmoreland Road in the Predominate Stakes]. I didn't think Big Bad Bob acted around Chester, and on this fairer he looks to have sound claims of winning this .. he'll do for me. Eachway punters could do a lot worse than Private Charter, who beat all bar Osorio in the Derby Italiano (Group 1) at Capannelle at the end of May.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Big Bad Bob
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Delsarte
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Private Charter, [e/w]

|¯¯"Third¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 3.45 Coronation Stakes {A} {Group 1} 1mile~ Penalty £156600 3-Year-Olds only fillies 1st - £156,600, 2nd - £54,335, 3rd - £26,835, 4th - £11,835 11 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Difficult to see past Russian Rhythm if she replicates her 1000 Guineas form here.. however she's no sort of betting proposition in my view. Soviet Song makes some appeal if you believe she can replicate the form shown when beating Casual Look last term in the Meon Valley Stud Fillies' Mile (Group 1) over course and distance last September, however Diacada, {eachway} is the selection. German form is underestimated, especially the Group form, however her win in the Henkel-Rennen (German 1,000 Guineas) (Group 2) at Düsseldorf at the beginning of May, was a good effort and it wouldn't surprise me if she made the frame. A strongly run event may give Cassis a chance of making the frame. She was flying in the Prix de Diane Hermes (Group 1) after suffering interference in running, however was only beaten 3lengths by Nebraska Tornado... that was a good effort and gives her a decent chance if she can replicate that form over this shorter trip.. she's "third best". 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»--Diacada (GER), [e/w]
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Russian Rhythm
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Cassis

|¯¯"Fourth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 4.20 Wolferton Rated Stakes {H`cap} {A} {Listed Race} 1mile~2f Penalty £29000 4-Year-Olds plus 1st - £29,000, 2nd - £10,957, 3rd - £5,457, 4th - £2,457 18 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Akshar, Magnifico, In Time's Eye, Albuhera, Foreign Affairs, Binary File, Persian Lightning, Goblet Of Fire, Nadour Al Bahr, Bourgainville, Samhari and Leo's Luckyman, make most appeal in this listed race over ten furlongs. Very hard to get away from Sir Michael Stoute's pair Akshar, [a winner three times this season, most recently when beating Danelor by 1 ½lengths at the Derby Meeting at Epsom] and Magnifico, [making his seasonal reappearance after two wins at the end of last term, the most recent being when he beat Krugerrand by 3/4l]. Akshar will have his supporters, however Magnifico looked to capable of significant improvement this term.. He makes most appeal to me. Nadour Al Bahr, [who usually runs well here] Bourgainville, [becoming frustrating but has the ability to go close] and Leo's Luckyman, [a good second to Ekraar at Doncaster last time out] appear to be the best eachway possibles.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Magnifico
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Nadour Al Bahr, [e/w]
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Akshar,
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- Leo's Luckyman, 

|¯¯"Fifth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 4.55 Queen's Vase {A} {Group 3} 2miles~45yds Penalty £37700 3-Year-Olds only. 1st - £37,700, 2nd - £13,950, 3rd - £6,800, 4th - £2,900 13 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Arundel, New South Wales, Shanty Star, Dalaram, Santando, Singleton, Icklingham, and Cruzspiel. make most appeal in the fifth. Aiden O'Brien steps Arundel up to two miles having won on his reappearance at the Curragh in April... You could imagine him being a solid favourite in recent renewals, however with the stable performing so poorly, you have to pass him over. New South Wales and Shanty Star look the ones to be on. Godolphin's runner New South Wales runs in more suitable surroundings after seeing a distant view of Dalakhani in the Prix Lupin (Group 1) at Longchamp in May. Despite his 3lbs penalty for winning the Killavullan Stakes (Group 3) last season at the Curragh in October, I can see him figuring here and just prefer him to Shanty Star, who did well to stay on behind Franklins Gardens in the Lingfield Derby Trial, after setting a suicidal early pace. Henry Cecil's runner Singleton impressed when winning last time out at Newmarket and represents the best eachway value. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- New South Wales,
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Shanty Star, 
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Singleton, [e/w]

|¯¯"Sixth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 5.30 Buckingham Palace Stakes {H`cap} {B} 7f Penalty £29000 3-Year-Olds plus 1st - £29,000, 2nd - £10,790, 3rd - £5,290, 4th - £2,290 30 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- Green Line, Patavellian, Highland Shot, Camberley, Grizedale, Bond Diamond, Digital, Hurricane Floyd, Mine, Master Robbie, Kareeb, Lunar Leo, Material Witness, Attaché, Najeebon, Santisima Trinidad, Takes Tutu, and Omaha City, all have claims in an open finalé. Patavellian has impressed in winning his last four races and still looks capable of winning here despite another hike up in the weights. He is interesting drawn on th unfavoured far side, however he has blazed a lone furrow before and that wouldnt put me off of him... however he may be able to react the Green Line's late run on the stands side. If he gets the breaks the Queen's runner has the ability to win this, as proven when winning cosily on his return at Chester... He's a poor price however he is the selection here. the eachway value of the race might be Takes Tutu, who has been running far better than recent form figures suggest.. His victory over the selection last August at Goodwood gives him a good chance here... He just might be worth a little interest especially if you can have a little of the 40/1 that currently is on offer for him. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Green Line, 
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Takes Tutu (USA), [e/w] 
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Patavellian,
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- Camberley,

ROYAL ASCOT 
Thursday, June 19.
Finally on the scoresheet , courtesy of Sindapour... 12/1 was better than expected.. stats about the draw works in our favour. Some good efforts by the eachway/highlighted horses.. hopefully we can continue the trend here.
|¯¯¯"First¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 2.30 Norfolk Stakes [gr.3] 17entries 5f Penalty £37700 2-Year-Olds only 1st - £37,700, 2nd - £14,005, 3rd - £6,855, 4th - £2,955 8 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-Some useful juveniles line up for the opener on Ladies Day at Ascot , and whilst Nevisian Lad, Soonest, Kafuwain, Prince Of Denmark, and Nights Cross may go onto win more races this term, this looks to be between Kheleyf, Old Deuteronomy and Russian Valour. Russian Valour stayed on strongly to win at Sandown last time, however the second, Incise, hasn't franked the form here earlier this week and looks to be at best a bit player. This leaves two possibilities...Old Deuteronomy was particularly impressive when winning comfortably on his debut at Newmarket and will probably go onto better things, however it's a brave man who backs Ballydoyle with confidence after their relatively poor start to this week. This leaves Kheleyf, reputedly one of the best juveniles in David Loder's yard who started the 'hype machine' merchants chanting his name after sluicing home at York just over a month ago. I'm not sure how high in the ranks he will surface, however he looked pretty good that day and it's difficult to imagine him being turned over here even if he simply replicated that effort. Funnily enough, the only possible drawback might be the trip as he may want further in time. However, if he is as good as they say, I'm quite confident he'll get away with it this time.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Kheleyf
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Old Deuteronomy
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Russian Valour

|¯¯¯"Second¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.05 Ribblesdale Stakes [gr. 2] 13entries 1mile~4f Penalty £81200 3-Year-Olds only fillies 1st - £81,200, 2nd - £30,485, 3rd - £15,085, 4th - £6,685 9 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-Oaks form gets tested for the first time since Casual Look obliged 13 days ago in this Group 2 twelve furlong event, as the third and fourth, Summitville and Inchberry seek to build on their good efforts at Epsom. In opposition, Ocean Silk, Mezzo Soprano, Spanish Sun, Sun On The Sea, Humouresque and Moonsprite all can be considered against them. 

This is quite an open-looking affair and as both Oaks runners have failed to win so far this season, you'd probably be keen to take them on here...but what with? Sun On The Sea stayed on strongly to beat Waldmark on her reappearance however Sir Michael Stoute's runner hardly franked the form at Epsom a few weeks later and further improvement appears to be required. The same comment applies to Moon Sprite who won at Chester two weeks ago. Ocean Silk and Mezzo Soprano make the greatest appeal and they renew rivalry after battling out the finish of the Lupe at the end of May. On that occasion, Ocean Silk came out on top by 1½ lengths, however this extended trip should bring about further improvement in Godolphin's runner and it will not surprise me if she managed to get a lot closer here.

I'm going to side with Mezzo Soprano, however not with bucket loads of confidence. What may be more interesting is the each-way value of the race. Spanish Sun is virtually unexposed after winning her sole start last term and could be anything (definitely one to consider if the market speaks favourably of her). However, I would suggest a wager in Humouresque who'll probably go into the race undervalued, however comes into the running after her excellent sixth behind Fidélité at Longchamp a month ago. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Mezzo Soprano
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Ocean Silk
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Humouresque, (e/w)

|¯¯¯"Third¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.45 GOLD CUP [gr. 1] 13entries 2miles~4f Penalty £145000 4-Year-Olds plus 1st - £145,000, 2nd - £54,390, 3rd - £26,890, 4th - £11,890 13 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- An intriguing renewal of the Gold Cup which has a fascinating mix of established stayers and top-class middle distance horses trying their hand at this extreme trip. This is far more open than the market currently suggests and I can genuinely say that there is not one horse that I cannot make a case for them running well. I say this because certain mainstream pundits will have you believe that you can easily whittle down the 13 candidates ( I don't agree) and a lot of them are homing in on the claims of Mr Dinos, admittedly an impressive winner of the Henry II Stakes at Sandown 24 days ago. He proved last term when making all to win the French St Leger that he has stamina in abundance and does appear to have a lot of the necessary attributes to win this race. 

However, would he win a Grade 1 event over middle distances? There is nothing in his form that suggests that he is capable of doing this. That comment, however, doesn't apply to Mamool. His win in the Yorkshire Cup over 1m6f was arguably one of the best middle-distance performances so far this season, bolstered by the 2nd, Warrsan' s win in the Group 1 Coronation Cup at the Derby Meeting. He looks like he could hold his own if dropped back in trip in the future, however he proved last year in the Queen's Vase that he stays at least 2 miles and to me if he stays, it is difficult to look past him for the winner. In my view he is the most likely horse to prevail. He is however very short in the market and I now am deliberating whether to make him first choice, or see if there is something else that we may consider ahead of him (in terms of value). Alcazar certainly would be considered if we had a bit of rain between now and race time, however this gallant eight-year-old's fragility would put me off on this surface. Similarly, I could see Black Sam Bellamy running a big race if he stayed, however he is not guaranteed to do so. I'm going to suggest you stick with Mamool as first choice, however I wouldn't be surprised if this trip didn't bring about further improvement in Kasthari, a staying on third behind Mr Dinos on his reappearance at Sandown. I can't see him winning, however it wouldn't be the greatest surprise to me if he made the frame and he may well be worth a 'dip in the pool' at double figure odds. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Mamool
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Kasthari, (e/w)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Mr Dinos

|¯¯¯"Fourth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.20 King George V Stakes (H` cap) 34entries 1mile~4f Penalty £34800 3-Year-Olds only 1st - £34,800, 2nd - £12,940, 3rd - £6,340, 4th - £2,740 20 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-The first handicap on the card is for three-year-olds over 12 furlongs. As you'd expect at the Royal Meeting, it has a very open look to it and I can certainly make cases for Highland Games, Chief Yeoman, Etesaal, Bowing, Fantastic Love, Blythe Knight, Zero Tolerance, Double Obsession, Salsalino, Telemachus, Famous Grouse, Lodger, Rahaf, Risk Taker, Fabulous Jet and Gondolin. 

Etesaal certainly appears to have solid-looking credentials having won both starts this season, most recently when landing a competitive looking Class B handicap at York a month ago, beating (amongst others) Blythe Knight (who reopposes and has since franked the form by winning a conditions event at Pontefract at the beginning of the month). Given luck in running, he should go close here however I won't burden him with the outright selection (although I suspect he is the most likely winner) and instead I'll suggest Chief Yeoman who was very unlucky in running last time out behind Jazz Messenger at the Derby meeting and would certainly have got a lot closer bar his poor luck in running. He was staying on strongly over 10 furlongs and (on paper anyway) looks as though a step up to 12f should suit. If offered around double-figure odds, he could give you a sporting run for your money for a place here. If you're looking for a complete shock, then Salsalino and Todlea have profiles similar to the selection a could give you a good run for your money. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Chief Yeoman, (e/w)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Etesaal
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Todlea
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- Salsalino

|¯¯¯"Fifth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.55 Hampton Court Stakes 30entries 1mile~2f Penalty £29000 3-Year-Olds only 1st - £29,000, 2nd - £10,785, 3rd - £5,285, 4th - £2,285 11 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- One of the less-competitive looking races appears to be between Sublimity, Great Pyramid and Tuning Fork. Although Tuning Fork (2nd in the Dante Stakes at York) and Great Pyramids (5th in the Irish 2000 Guineas at The Curragh) have bits of form that entitle them to go close here, it is difficult to support them with any confidence especially as their yards are so up and down at present. By process of default, Sublimity has an opportunity to win his first Listed event and even if Great Pyramid and Tuning Fork's stables had been firing on all cylinders, they would still have had difficulty coping with this improving colt who looked up to Group class when winning at York and most recently at Newmarket. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Sublimity
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Tuning Fork, (e/w if offered)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Great Pyramid.

|¯¯¯"Sixth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 5.30 Britannia Stakes (H` cap) 47entries 1mile~ Penalty £34800 3-Year-Olds only colts and geldings 1st - £34,800, 2nd - £12,950, 3rd - £6,350, 4th - £2,750 32 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-The second opportunity for punters (either laughing or crying after the Royal Hunt Cup) to have another go at winning a 32 runner affair over the straight mile. The race is it's usual open-looking self and cases can be made for Crafty Calling, Hard Nose, Jebal Suraaj, Self Evident, Tug Of Love, Court Masterpiece, Chinkara, Howle Hill, Mujarad, Emran, Brave Call, Contractor, New Seeker, Pretence, Jay Gee's Choice, Yeoman Lad, Zabaglione, Commission, El Coto and Helm Bank. Self Evident, Chinkara and Jebal Suraaj appear to have strong claims if running to their best, however all of them appear to be badly drawn and could be struggling if the horses split into two groups. 

The draw has messed up this race and I would probably only suggest a passing interest in it. I could see Howle Hill running well if he got the run of the race. His form with Arakan earlier in the season looks pretty useful now and he should run well at a nice price. John Gosden's form in the race in second to none and his recent winner Mujarad could run well from a good drawer. It's probably worth taking one of the leading fancies from highly-drawn horses just in case the draw is wrong. Jebal Suraaj' s proven stamina over further makes him the most likely candidate.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Howle Hill, (e/w)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Mujarad
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Jebal Suraaj
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- New Seeker

ROYAL ASCOT
Wednesday June 18.
Day One - A few close calls. The each-way horses are doing well. Hopefully that illusive winner is not too far away. 
|¯¯"First¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 2.30 Jersey Stakes {A} (Group 3} 7f Penalty £43500 3-Year-Olds only. 1st - £43,500, 2nd - £16,175, 3rd - £7,925, 4th - £3,425 14 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-Day Two of the meeting opens with the Group 3 Jersey Stakes over 7 furlongs. Like the last race yesterday, this race has thrown up several shock results. I suspect this is due to a lot of the form being over distances other than today's trip. Fourteen runners line up of whom, Arakan, Saturn, Blazing Thunder, Desert Destiny, Naahy, Rimrod, Somnus and Tante Rose make most appeal. Arakan will probably go off as favourite, arriving here having won two valuable 7 furlong handicaps in the manner of a group horse. This represents a big step-up in class, however as Kalaman demonstrated yesterday, there is no better trainer around than Sir Michael Stoute to groom a horse in handicaps for this level of competition. This should be run to suit as Naahy will no doubt attempt to stretch these from the start, though as Rimrod proved last time at Epsom, it is possible to peg him back. I would suspect that would be the likely outcome here. I will stick with Arakan , however I have a strong recommendation from The Flat Man for Blazing Thunder, a winner 12 days ago at Haydock, whilst Saturn and Desert Destiny's classic form surely entitles them to close scrutiny. Either one of these may be best each way value in the race. 
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»-Arakan (USA) 
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Blazing Thunder
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Desert Destiny (e/w)

|¯¯"Second¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 3.05 Queen Mary Stakes {A} (Group 3} 5f Penalty £37700 2-Year-Olds only fillies. 1st - £37,700, 2nd - £142,705, 3rd - £71,205, 4th - £32,205 15 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- A typically competitive renewal of the Queen Mary Stakes comes next. I'm fairly certain that Mark Johnston's filly Attraction will initially head the market. She has impressed in each of her three starts, most recently when running away with the Hillary Needler Stakes at Beverley two weeks ago and will take a lot of beating, however she faces stiff opposition from. Vermilliann, Catstar, Miss Childrey, Crafty Fancy, Show Me The Roses, Incise, Roses, Majestic Desert, Mirasol Princess, Promenade, Seguidilla as well as American raider, America America.

After much deliberation and scratching of my head, I have decided that as good as Attraction looks on paper, she might be vulnerable to something with a little more scope for improvement. The two most likely candidates being David Loder's Catstar (who should come on significantly for her first time out success at Leicester ) and Richard Hannon's Vermilliann who caught the eye when winning the Autecnique Saab Fillies' Conditions Stakes at Salisbury, last time out. Difficult to chose between these, however I will side with Vermilliann. Michael Bell's unbeaten filly Promenade, or Aidan O'Brien's charge, Show Me The Roses, (who should come on significantly from his first time out effort at Sandown) appear to be the best each-way contenders.
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»- Vermilliann
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Catstar
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Promenade, [e/w]

|¯¯"Third¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 3.45 Prince Of Wales's Stakes {A} (Group 1} 1mile~2f Penalty £203000 4-Year-Olds plus 1st - £203,000, 2nd - £75,900, 3rd - £37,400, 4th - £16,400 11 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- I'm trying to remember a better lineup (in terms of depth) for the Prince Of Wales Stakes. You can certainly make cases for Moon Ballad, Falbrav, Grandera, Nayef, Islington, Olden Times, Paolini, Ekraar and Rakti here. For many the obvious choice will be Moon Ballad, so majestic when running away with the Dubai World Cup in March. When this horse is in that sort of form, he will always be very hard to beat, however there must be a possible concern that he might just be imperious on sand. Certainly his turf form is far less impressive. I am not in a position to question those in Godolphin, however if I could I would question the wisdom of taking on 'a near certainty' with another decent 'tool' (as Grandera showed when running away with this last year)...unless of course they're not that sure that Moon Ballad will succeed. I'd want to take him on here especially as his style of racing is surely going to set this race up for stablemate Grandera, never mind Japan Cup Winner Falbrav, Nayef plus Rakti and Islington (top class three-year-olds from last season, both of whom are capable of holding their own in this company). I have to side with Falbrav who looks as good as ever since joining Luca Cumani this season. This ex-Italian was very impressive when beating Bright Sky in the Prix d'Ispahan (Group 1) at Longchamp three weeks ago. If he gets a clear run, his potent finish may prove decisive up the short run-in. Islington's lack of race fitness may prove costly at this level, thought I expect her to run well. If you're looking for surprises, you could do far worse than last season's Derby Italiano winner Rakti, who won the Premio Presidente della Repubblica (Group 1) on his reappearance at Milano; or Paolini, who is regularly placed in races of this calibre around the globe, (he was only beaten 2lengths by Eishin Preston in the Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth II Cup (Group 1) at Sha Tin at the end of April). Both of these would probably be shorter prices if they were trained in Britain and are worth a side interest.
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»- Falbrav
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Islington, 
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Paolini (GER), (e/w)

|¯¯"Fourth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 4.20 Royal Hunt Cup (H` cap} {B} 1mile~ Penalty £72500 3-Year-Olds plus 1st - £72,500, 2nd - £27,280, 3rd - £13,530, 4th - £6,030 32 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- The Royal Hunt Cup is one of those races that either you love... or loath... It can make you pull your hair out as if you study the form, only to find that yours was the winner on say, the far side... however 10 finished in front of it on the stands side!!!... or vice versa...or it can be the most sweetest of bets where you've studied the form, sussed out the pace of the race and then get that satisfying moment when all that investment bears fruit, as your wager battles to success in front of 31 rivals... Nothing tastes sweeter than success in a big a handicap like this.

This seasons race is very competitive and I shall do my best to avoid delving too deeply on the question of where's the best place to be drawn and where the talking horses might be. I went through the 32 declarations and singled out the following horses for consideration;

	Funfair,
	Macadamia,
	Selective,
	Hallion,
	Camp Commander,
	Colisay,
	Morahib,
	Nashaab,
	Zonergem,
	Norton,
	Duke Of Modena,
	Faithful Warrior,
	Surprise Encounter,
	Tough Love,
	Serieux,
	Shot To Fame,
	Atlantic Ace,
	Commanding,  and
	Courageous Duke

Funfair is a short-price favourite to land this prize and no doubt will continue attract support. There was plenty to like about his success at York on his seasonal reappearance a month ago and it's hard to imagine him not running well. Similar comments apply to Macadamia (who won a listed race last time out) and Hallion, for who I know plenty of shrewd judges are on at big prices. I don' t believe this is a race to go 'heavily in' on and I'll be hoping Morahib and Zonergem give me a run for my money. Zonergem is very quirky and is probably best known for races he's thrown away as much as for coming from last to first to win a competitive 27-runner handicap here last autumn. He needs a lot of luck in running ,but could run well at a nice price... however he just lost out in a photograph for my selection as I believe Morahib might be well-treated here. Marcus Tregoning's does not persevere with older horses unless they are showing him something at home, and as Morahib demonstrated at Goodwood, when beating nineteen rivals, he possess ability in abundance. His defeat of Namroud that day looks good on paper, especially as that horse has come out and won since, and at current odds of around 14/1. I'd be disappointed that if, at the very least, he didn't make it into the first four. 
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»- Morahib (e/w)
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Funfair
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Zonergem
¦ 4th place? ¦:¬»- Macadamia

|¯¯"Fifth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 4.55 Ascot Stakes (H` cap} {C} 2miles~4f Penalty £26680 4-Year-Olds plus. 1st - £26,680, 2nd - £9,920, 3rd - £4,860, 4th - £2,100 29 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»- A huge field of 29 line up for this stayers handicap over two and a half miles. Of those declared, Landing Light, Mana D'Argent, Sindapour, Contact Dancer, Establishment, Bid For Fame, Fortune Island, Bobsleigh, Don Fernando, Heir To Be, Knavesmire Omen, Thewhirlingdervish, Decisive, Mr Ed, Parachute, and Marble Arch make most appeal. Top-class hurdler Landing Light is a deserved favourite here particularly after his cheeky win at York last time out. I can imagine him running well here (especially as the higher weighted horses have a particularly good record in the race). However, the way the race is going to be run looks sure to suit Heir To Be and Sindapour who have an abundance of stamina and also a change of pace. I was taken by the way Heir To Be won last time at Newcastle and he is another horse that attracts the confidence of The Flat Man today. However, Sindapour is very interesting now that connections are allowing him to run over extreme distances - which he is probably crying out for. Martin Pipe's success rate in this race (he has trained four of the last ten winners) is reason enough to have a salver on this potentially well-treated individual. He gets my vote. Thewhirlingdervish, (who has conditions to suit) and Mana D'Argent (third in this last year) appear to be the best each-way possibilities.
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»- Sindapour
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Heir To Be
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Landing Light
¦ 4th place? ¦:¬»- Thewhirlingdervish (e/w)

|¯¯"Sixth¯Race."¯¯|¯¯»-- 5.30 Chesham Stakes {A} (Listed Race} 7f Penalty £26100 2-Year-Olds only 1st - £26,100, 2nd - £9,690, 3rd - £4,740, 4th - £2,040 13 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-The last race on Day Two is a particularly difficult race to call, especially as there haven't been too many juvenile races at this trip this season. Of the thirteen runners declared, Pearl Of Love, Unrivalled, Tycoon, Milk It Mick, Sky Galaxy, Divine Gift and New Mexican would appear to have the strongest credentials. Pearl Of Love impressed when winning a decent Doncaster maiden last time out and is sure to give a good account of himself, however in Unrivalled and Tycoon, he meets two juveniles who posted highly promising debut efforts and should both have come on for the experience. There isn't much to choose between these three, however I marginally prefer Tycoon. This half-brother to very smart two-year-old Half Glance, ran well to finish only a length behind stablemate King Hesperus, on his debut at Gowran Park 17 days ago. That form looks particularly strong now, as King Hesperus won a listed race last week at Leopardstown, and I'll take him to score from Unrivalled, (an encouraging second behind King Carnival at Haydock 12 days ago despite racing green. He kept on determinedly for second, and show progress with racing and should appreciate the step up to seven furlongs here).
¦ ¹st place ¬ THE WINNER? ¦:¬»- Tycoon
¦ ²nd place? ¦:¬»- Unrivalled
¦ ³rd place? ¦:¬»- Pearl Of Love

ROYAL ASCOT
Tuesday. June 17.
Current Going: Good to Firm (possibility of a shower)
|¯¯¯"First¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 2.30 COVENTRY STAKES [gr. 3] 27entries 6f Penalty £37700 2-Year-Olds only. 1st - £37,700, 2nd - £14,010, 3rd - £6,860, 4th - £2,960 15 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The meeting opens with this competitive looking two year old event. Of the fifteen horses due to line up; Newton, Botanical, Sabbeeh, Three Valleys, Barbajuan, Fancy Foxtrot, Spanish Ace, Red Power, Privy Seal, and Parisienne look to be the horses to concentrate on. Punters will probably make Aiden O'Brien's Newton favourite, having won his last two starts, most recently the Listed Isabel Morris Memorial Marble Hill Stakes at the Curragh at the end of May. He stayed on well to beat Moon Unit ½lengtyh, and as he has improve with each of his three starts, you can imagine him making a bold bid here.

This does look by far his hardest task, however as Botanical, [a brother to Middle Park Stakes winner Lujain, who will improve of his debut effort at York] Sabbeeh, [hugely impressive when winning a minor event at Ripon], Three Valleys, [related on the dam's side to Hasili (dam of Banks Hill, Dansili, Heat Haze, Intercontinental), who won on his debut at Nottingham] and Barbajuan, [a winner of both his starts, most recently when making all at Kempton Park]. will all give him plenty to think about here. I was taken by Sabbeeh' s effort at Ripon, where he spread-eagled a field on his debut, eventually winning by 13lengths on soft ground... Its quite possibly that run flattered him, however he would need to have been useful to put in such an effort, and granted some progression for that effort, [and probably some luck in running].. it isn't too hard to imagine him going close... He'll do for me here. Three Valleys, could well be good eachway value, whilst Spanish Ace, and American raider Parisienne might go well for those looking for a longshot to oblige
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Sabbeeh (USA),
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Three Valleys (USA), [e/w]
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Spanish Ace,

|¯¯¯"Second¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.05 KING'S STAND STAKES [gr. 2] 28entries 5f Penalty £81200 3-Year-Olds plus. 1st - £81,200, 2nd - £30,455, 3rd - £15,055, 4th - £6,655 21 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The second race on the card is the King's Stand Stakes over five furlongs. Last year's winner Domenica attempts to replicate her all the way effort last term. This looks to be a more competitive heat, as I can certainly make cases for Continent, Captain Rio, Romantic Liason, Firebolt, [representing Hong Kong], Danehurst , Oasis Dream, Saddad , Elusive City, Bahamian Pirate, Acclamation, Olivia Grace , Wunders Dream, as well as Aussie raider Choisir. Domenica won this first time out and should be able to give a good account of herself here, however Continent, [clear chance if he gets the breaks], or the three year olds Romantic Liason, Oasis Dream, and Elusive City, make plenty of appeal.

Last season's leading two year old Oasis Dream, hasn't raced since winning the Middle Park Stakes [gr.1] at Newmarket last October, however he still looked to be a live danger here. He may need this though and whilst he may run well i'd be tempted to take a chance with Elusive City, who has always looked like developing into a top class sprinter, who palpably failed to stay in both the Greenham Stakes [gr. 3] at Newbury and Poule d'Essai des Poulains [gr. 1]. He showed plenty of pace in both those events and make plenty of appeal at double figure odds for a place... He'll do for me.
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Elusive City (USA), [e/w] 
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Continent,
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Oasis Dream (USA),

|¯¯¯"Third¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 3.45 ST JAMES'S PALACE STAKES [gr. 1] 16entries 1mile~ Penalty £156600 3-Year-Olds only colts. 1st - £156,600, 2nd - £54,300, 3rd - £26,800, 4th - £11,800 11 Declared
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The first Group 1 race of the meeting is a cracking renewal of the St James's Palace Stakes. Eleven runners have been declared to line up, of whom Kalaman (impressive in both starts this season, most recently the Heron Stakes at Kempton, though steps up in grade here), Clodovil (unbeaten this season, most recently when landing the  Poule d'Essai des Poulains - the French 2000 Guineas at Longchamp last month), Indian Haven (twice a winner this term who made up for an unlucky run in our Guineas when staying on to beat France in the Irish equivalent three weeks ago), Zafeen (second to Refuse To Bend in our Guineas who has 11 lengths to find on Indian Haven on Irish Guineas form), France (consistent this season who has decent claims on his 2nd in the Irish 2000 Guineas), Hold That Tiger (very disappointing in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket but a top-class juvenile who shouldn't be written off), Martillo (German 2000 Guineas winner who routed his field. Difficult to evaluate in this company), Tout Seul (Has run creditably in the English and Irish 2000 Guineas. Should be capable of running well here), Monsieur Bond (has chances if running up to his 3rd in the 2000 Guineas, though disappointing last time out) and Statue Of Liberty( last season's Coventry Stakes winner. Could make a sensational reappearance in this Group 1 event, though fitness will have to be taken on trust) all can be given chances of sorts.

I'm fairly certain that Kalaman will develop into a Group performer, however it shouldn't be overestimated how huge a jump in grade this is, although he may well go onto better thing this season. I would pass him over here with Clodovil who is a proven Group 1 performer who will be difficult to beat if Christophe Soumillon gets the run on the race. He is marginally preferred to Martillo who probably is overpriced since connections are unfamiliar to British punters and could give each-way supporters a good run for their money. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Clodovil (FR)
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Martillo (GER) (e/w)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Kalaman

|¯¯¯"Fourth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.20 QUEEN ANNE STAKES [gr. 1] 16entries 1mile~ Penalty £145000 4-Year-Olds plus. 1st - £145,000, 2nd - £54,235, 3rd - £26,735, 4th - £11,735 11 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The second Group 1 race of Royal Ascot is the Queen Anne Stakes where all eyes will be centered on Hawk Wing and whether his scintillating wide-margin victory in the Lockinge Stakes was a true reflection of his ability or simply a 'blip' on an otherwise dubious record. It seems strange a position that some pundits are encouraging you to take as they are asking you to believe that six Group 1 performers all failed to give their running that day and it seems even more odd that they want you to believe that any horse that reopposes (Where Or When and Tillerman) can improve enough to threaten him. Let's blow this theory out of the water. Where Or When did beat Hawk Wing in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot last autumn, however it's worth remembering that he had previously been soundly beaten by the horse in the 2000 Guineas plus The Derby. Even if Where Or When has come on for the Newbury run, you can similarly argue that Hawk Wing equally can have improved for the experience...Its a brave punter that takes on Hawk Wing with Terry Mills' runner. There is another train of thought that suggests Hawk Wing's ability to dominate the Lockinge Stakes helped steal the prize and as a result Gateman, Blatant and Desert Dare all have been put in the lineup to try 'spoiling' tactics. Personally, if the horse wasn't resolute under pressure, surely being asked to make all the running would have tested this temperament to the limit and for what it's worth, I can't believe that connections will be 'stupid' enough to take these three on, should they blaze the trail tomorrow. In fact, by setting an electric pace, they are probably playing into his hands by allowing him to settle at a higher cruising speed than probably would have been the case. Whilst I'm not expecting as scintillating a performance, I will be surprised if Hawk Wing doesn't prevail although the way the race is being 'teed up', Dubai Destination (former top-class juvenile who impressed when putting 6 lengths between himself and his rivals on his reappearance at Nottingham 13 days ago), Right Approach, Tillerman or South African raider Victory Moon might get him off the bridle. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Hawk Wing
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Dubai Destination
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Right Approach (e/w)

|¯¯¯"Fifth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 4.55 Duke Of Edinburgh Stakes (H` cap) 35entries 1mile~4f Penalty £34800 3-Year-Olds plus. 1st - £34,800, 2nd - £12,930, 3rd - £6,330, 4th - £2,730 20 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The first handicap of the Royal meeting is this competitive-looking mile-and-a-half handicap. Of the 20 declared runners, Researched, Hazim, Counsel's Opinion, Dileer, King's Consul, Shabernak, Hambleden, Muhareb, Waverley, Arabie, Gallery God, Pagan Dance, Solo Flight, Silence Is Golden, Red Wine, and Iberus all appear to have chances. Sir Michael Stoute has a very strong looking hand here as both Hazim and Researched come here having each landed a valuable mile and a quarter handicap this term (Researched at York, whilst Hazim obliged at Redcar). Both appear to be open to a fair amount of improvement at this trip and it is hard to imagine one of them not winning this. Researched probably is best treated as he did no more than necessary at York and is probably value for a few extra pounds. If he manages to get the run of the race, I wouldn't be at all surprised if he managed to prevail here. Any each-way punters looking for a good run for their money could do a lot worse than Waverley, Pagan Dance or Iberus. The last-named in particular appeals as he appears to have been campaigned with getting a decent handicap mark in mind. Sindapour' s win at Sandown on Saturday should alert punters that Martin Pipe is well capable of getting a horse a fair mark on the flat where necessary,
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Researched
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Iberus (GER) (e/w)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Hazim
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- Waverley

|¯¯¯"Sixth¨Race"¯¯¯|¯¯¯»-- 5.30 Balmoral H` cap 37entries 5f Penalty £29000 3-Year-Olds only. 1st - £29,000, 2nd - £10,785, 3rd - £5,285, 4th - £2,285 26 Declared 
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¦ "a røøk" ¦:¬»-- The final race of Day One is a 26 runner handicap over the minimum distance. Will overindulgence and tropical weather encourage punters to dabble in a handicap which in recent years has proved a graveyard for favourites?...quite probably. I've had a look at the runners and would entertain (as possible winners) Move It, Baltic King, Not So Dusty, Cape Royal, Masaader, Rectangle, Willhewiz, Coconut Penang, Deportivo, Judhoor, Gaelic Princess, Shouting The Odds, Awarding, Fancy Lady, Secret Pride and Bandit Queen. I've taken a keen interest in Judhoor's progression as she was one of our horses to follow last season and she was particularly impressive when winning on her reappearance at Ripon at the end of April. She makes plenty of appeal at each-way odds as does cosy Nottingham winner Cape Royal, who could be potentially 'thrown in' here. However, I have to side with Move It despite a high draw. He has looked potential Group class in each of his starts this season and lost nothing in defeat behind Bonus over 6f in a valuable Lingfield handicap last time out. Back over the minimum distance, he makes most appeal here. 
¦ ¹st PLACE ¬ WINNER? ¦:¬»-- Move It
¦ ²nd Place? ¦:¬»-- Judhoor (e/w)
¦ ³rd Place? ¦:¬»-- Cape Royal
¦ 4th Place? ¦:¬»-- Not So Dusty

This page was updated on Saturday June 21, 2003 at  09:48:22 AM

THE FEATURE MEETING
Selections for Monday - Friday should be available after 9:30pm the previous evening, however on Saturday and Sunday due to other commitments won't be posted until after 8:30am those respective mornings unless otherwise stated. Hopefully this helps

DEDICATION

FURLONG TO GO would like to convey our condolences to the rook, whose father, George Edward Robertson passed away on 16th April 2003. 

Mr Robertson nurtured the rook's enthusiasm for this sport, and it was this inspiration, which is probably behind the creation of this website. As a permanent tribute to his memory, all the meetings covered under the "feature Meeting" banner will be dedicated to him... "Big George".

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