BIG ROCK had excuses when only sixth in the Lockinge Stakes and is better judged on his six-length win in the QEII over C&D in October. He is rated clear of these, and the drying ground will be of no concern, so he’s a definite for the shortlist.
Tips: Big Rock
15.05 Coventry Stakes
COWARDOFTHECOUNTY beat a subsequent Listed winner with a lot to spare on his debut at the Curragh, and Joseph O’Brien has continued to speak very highly of this son of Kodi Bear. He is the stable’s main hopeful and could be set to run a huge race now stepped up in grade.
Tips: Cowardofthecounty
15.45 King Charles III Stakes
ROGUE LIGHTNING progressed nicely as a sprinter last year and was desperately unfortunate to not collect the Prix de l’Abbaye on his final start of the campaign. He will be fitter from his comeback run at Haydock and is fancied to gain redemption for Tom Clover and James Doyle.
Tips: Rogue Lightning
16.25 St James’s Palace Stakes
ROSALLION found Notable Speech too strong when he finished second in the 2000 Guineas, but the winner had a fitness advantage, and I can see him getting a lot closer this time. The Irish 2000 Guineas winner is fancied to find revenge and land a third Group 1 win of his career.
Tips: Rosallion
17.05 Ascot Stakes
ZANNDABAD was very unlucky in the Chester Cup but still performed very well to take third and nearly win the race. The handicapper has only put him up a couple of pounds, and William Buick is booked to ride. He makes plenty of appeal.
Tips: Zanndabad
17.40 Wolferton Stakes
ISRAR is clear of these ratings, and he boasts the best piece of form, courtesy of his defeat of Adayar last year. His two efforts this season have been very good, including his recent second to Passenger, and he should be hard to beat in this easier grade.
Tips: Israr
