One of the biggest races in the British flat racing calendar takes place on Saturday with the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes taking centre stage at Ascot on a brilliant card at the Berkshire venue. There is also Group action elsewhere throughout the week with York on Saturday, plus Naas, Sandown and Leopardstown hosting pattern races in the days prior.
Trainers
- William Haggas – Truly had a day to remember on Saturday with 5 winners from his 7 runners, including the Irish Oaks with the extremely talented Sea Of Class. 9 winners overall last week, he is bang in-form.
- David O’Meara – Runs a large operation but fired in 12 winners last week with 4 on Saturday and a 1-2 in a Group 2 at the Curragh. Will have a lot of runners over the next 7 days, but they’re going well.
- Archie Watson – Up and coming young trainer who has already tasted plenty of success in his short career to date, had his first Royal Ascot winner with Soldiers Call in the Windsor Castle last month. Had an impressive 6 winners from 13 runners last week.
- Michael Bell – Operated at a 55% strike rate last week and is a yard evidently in top form. Interestingly sends just 1 runner to Beverley on Monday where he has a 25% strike rate in the past 5 years.
Jockeys
- Jamie Spencer – High class, experienced jockey who rode 7 winners from 18 mounts last week. Often produces his horses from the back so extra confidence goes a long way with his style.
- Rachel Richardson – Talented young jockey who rode a treble at Beverley last Tuesday. Has now lost her claim and is one to watch.
- James Doyle – Rode a memorable treble in Ireland on Saturday with multiple Group successes, including the Irish Oaks. Having a brilliant season and is already booked for plenty of rides this week.
Horses
- Crystal Ocean – Going through the gears for Sir Michael Stoute and is clearly top class, huge chance for a first Group 1 success in the King George on Saturday.
- Fennaan – Progressive 3 year old who has been gelded since disappointing at Goodwood last time out, is better than that and still has room for improvement off a mark of 92. Entered in the 7.25pm at Sandown on Wednesday.
- Ceratonia – Oasis Dream half-sister to Group 1 winner and Oaks second Wild Illusion, could make her debut in the 6.40pm at Newbury on Thursday.
- Atty Persse – Made encouraging reappearance at Haydock after his form tailed off last season, can improve for that and likely we haven’t seen the best of him yet.
- Baritone – Related to some useful sorts and looks on a very workable handicap mark. Bumped into a couple of good horses on handicap debut and is entered in the 8.10pm at Newmarket on Friday, the step up in trip should be ideal.
