International Rivalry For The Diamond Jubilee

It’s all about the speedsters today with the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes, Leg 6 of the Global Sprint Challenge, today’s feature race.

Last year’s renewal was won in dramatic fashion by Black Caviar, and while the wonder mare is not here today (she has been retired and has gone to have babies), our international challenge comes from Havelock, trained by Darrin Miller in the US, and the John O’Shea-trained Sea Siren, who has travelled to European from Australia. 

Sea Siren looked in fabulous order at the Ascot press conference at Newmarket last week and connections reported that she had travelled well and is at home in her new surroundings. Her recent form in Australia is looking very strong and she has a great chance of emulating her country mates’ achievements. The prevailing fast ground will suit.

Of the home team, Society Rock also loves fast ground and comes into this off the back of a win at York in May and a Group 1 victory at Haydock last September. He is aiming to become the first horse to reclaim a Diamond Jubilee crown, but, beware, he is never the fastest out of the stalls.  

At a longer price, Krypton Factor is one to bear in mind. He has not run since a good third in the Group 1 Golden Shaheen at Meydan, and he must have quick ground to show his best – his sixth in this last year (just a head behind Society Rock) came on ground too slow.

Suspicions are that it will be too quick for Gordon Lord Byron, and while this race is a big ask for a three-year-old filly, Restiadargent did manage a third last year. Word has it that Roshdu Queen, a talented two-year-old, has been working very well in the run up to this.


Bunker down in the Chesham
The Listed Chesham Stakes over 7f sees a big field of 21 juveniles challenging for Royal Ascot glory.

Bunker, who was bought by Sheikh Joaan after his first time out success over 6f, is current favourite, this race always being the plan en route to Group 1 entries later in the year.

Somewhat has already won over 7f when successful at Musselburgh on June 14 by 7l and is another with an eye on Group 1 entries in the summer.

Ihtimal was second first time out to yesterday’s Albany Stakes winner Kiyoshi, and then to Wedding Ring, fifth in the Albany, and should appreciate this extra furlong here.

Mount Athos can take the Hardwicke Stakes
Ektihaam ran well when winning here in May (beat Thomas Chippendale) and looks as though he will go well over the 1m4f trip in the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes (3.05), but he is one who would have wanted the rain to arrive.  

This is a big step-up in class for Sir John Hawkwood, though he is proven over the distance, so preference is for the consistent Mount Athos, owned by the enthusiastic Dr Marwan Koukash. The son of Montjeu has Group-winning form over this distance on a variety of ground and put in a great performance last autumn when fifth in the Melbourne Cup. 


Dinkum has fair chance in the Wokingham
Sir Michael Stoute fields two fancied runners – Duke Of Firenze and Ladyship, both owed by Cheveley Park Stud – in the 29-strong 6f Wokingham Stakes and both have strong chances .

One at a longer price is Dinkum Diamond. He relishes fast ground and a quick pace, which is almost guaranteed here. He has done most of his running over 5f, but as a five-year-old, and trained by Henry Candy who has previous with good sprinters, looks ready to get the extra furlong now. He is worth an each-way bet.

Castle can be King for the Duke 
The middle-distance 1m4f Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap (5.00) is another race with a big field of 22. 

Highland Castle has always been held in high regard by his trainer David Elsworth, who sees him as a prospect for the Ebor. He loves the quick ground, has to be held up so will need luck in running, but will be seen doing his best work at the finish. He looks well handicapped on his 2012 form.

Go Mad in the finale
The lucky last, the Queen Alexandra Stakes (5.30) over 2m5f, is the longest race on the Royal Ascot card. 

Courtesy Call, a son of Manduro who wants fast ground, represents yesterday’s winning trainer Nicky Henderson, but preference is for Mad Moose, trained by fellow NH trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies. 

The horse has refused to start in three runs over hurdles, but he won over 1m4f at Doncaster in May before finishing second to Mount Athos at Chester. Despite his lack of enthusiasm at the start, he does put his best hoof forward when racing and should go close with William Twiston-Davies on board. 

A Day Fit For The Queen

No reigning monarch has ever won the Ascot Gold Cup; can history be made today?

Sir Michael Stoute and his team will be certainly be hoping that The Queen’s Estimate will be the one to change the course of history. The filly will be searching for back-to-back Royal Ascot wins having won the 2m Queen’s Vase last year, and back-to-back Ascot wins having won the 2m Sagaro Stakes at the May meeting.

This 2m4f trip will be the furthest the filly has eve run, but she acts well here and has every chance. 

One who is guaranteed to stay is Rite Of Passage, winner of this in 2010. The son of Giant’s Causeway does not run much and has not been seen on a racecourse since winning here at the last Champions’ meeting, but that was his only run in 2012 and his talented trainer will have him primed for a big run.

Last year’s winner Colour Vision and third Saddler’s Rock take their chances again, but both would probably prefer a slower surface. One would will enjoy the ground, is stepping up to 2m4f for the first time, but has placed Group 1 form and was second in a Group 2 over 2m at Longchamp last time is Last Train from the Andre Fabre yard.  He has a big chance at a good price.

When Aidan O’Brien openly tells the press which horse is his best two-year-old of the year, it is wise to pay attention – particularly when the trainer has already had already had one impressive two-year-old winner this week.

Coach House is favourite for the Group 1 6f Norfolk Stakes (2.30) and it is probably sensible just to trust the Irishman’s judgement.

However, is worth taking on the current favourite Alive Alive Oh in the Group 2 1m4f Ribblesdale Stakes (3.05) as all her winning form has coming on yielding or soft ground in Ireland. 

Just Pretending is stepping back in class but up in trip after a third in the Irish 1,000 Guineas and has obvious chances on that form, but Winsili could put Prince Khalid Abdullah on the winner’s podium for the first time this week. A beautifully bred filly, she won the Listed 1m2f Swettenham Stud Stakes at Newbury last time when looking a decent filly in the making. 


The Queen has great chances of a quick fire double on the card with Sea Shanty, who is searching a four-timer in the mile Britannia Handicap (4.05). The gelding is on the upgrade and has more improvement to come.

Secret Talent has only run three times, including when second here in May behind the Professor, a subsequent dual Listed winner.  He has already acted well on a fast surface and has always been held in high regard by trainer Hughie Morrison.

The 1m2f Tercentenary Stakes (5.00) could go to the French invader and Aga Khan-owned Shikarpour, who was a good fifth in the Prix du Jockey-Club at the beginning of the month, while our finale, the King George V takes looks an very open race – no horse on the early prices was shorter than 5-1. 

The early favourite is Bold Sniper, another for The Queen (can we believe Her Highness could get a three-timer on the card?), but preference is for the Mark Johnston-trained and Joe Fanning-ridden Royal Skies, who has won his last two with ease despite being hiked up in the weights by the handicapper after the first of those two victories. The son of Dubawi is sure to get the trip in a race won by Johnston and Fanning last year – in fact, Johnston has won this race an incredible four times in the last ten years.

WIN TICKETS TO SEE ENGLAND WOMEN V JAPAN and ROYAL ASCOT PAVILION CLUB UPGRADE!

The England Senior Female Football Team are looking forward to a well-deserved day out at Royal Ascot on Saturday 22nd June.  The comfortable surrounds of the new Pavilion Club will be their base for the day and the players will be making the most of some time off from training, ahead of their next match against Japan, the current World Cup holders, at the Pirelli Burton Stadium on Wednesday 26th June. It’s a friendly international match and the second of two testing home internationals as Hope Powell prepares her side for Euro 2013. 

Be in with a chance of winning two tickets to see the ladies play in this international friendly by booking your Grandstand Admission Ticket for Royal Ascot between Monday 10th and Friday 14th June.  What’s more, the lucky winner and their guest, will receive an upgrade to the new and exclusive Pavilion Club when they attend Royal Ascot!  Just a short walk from the track and Parade Ring, it’s the perfect base for the day, with complimentary Afternoon Tea included with your badge.

The winner will be selected at random and announced on Monday 17th June.

#AscotAsks Sasha Wilkins, Fashion Tips And Trends For #RoyalAscot

Sasha Wilkins in New York by Jackie Dixon

1. What fashion advice would you give to men going to Royal Ascot?
I’ve never met any man who doesn’t look extremely good in a well cut suit. Although the Silver Ring doesn’t have a precise dress code, those who look best are always those who make an effort. For those in the Royal Enclosure who are hiring a morning suit, do make sure you try it on beforehand: badly fitting coats ruin the look!

2. How did you get into fashion and blogging?
I started out at British Conde Nast, the home of Vogue, as second assistant to the editorial director (I make a very good cup of tea). When I moved to Manhattan in 2007 I started a daily online diary, which evolved into my now full time job of running LibertyLondonGirl

3. How do I make my outfit stand out from the crowd this year?
Colour! Black is definitely to be avoided. I covered Ascot fashion for the BBC for four years and the people who always looked and photographed best wore colours like bright pink, yellow and orange. If you don’t like brights on your body, go for neon coloured shoes or bags. And, of course, a great hat!

4. Which style of hat do you prefer?
I’ll be lucky enough to be in the Royal Enclosure this year, which means my hat base has to be bigger than 6cm, so I've ordered a quite a large navy blue circle with flowers underneath, that perches on the front of my head, from milliner Edwina Ibbotson. Think satellite dish!

I do like a spotted net veil too, given half a chance. New online hat rental service The Hat Club has some really good Ascot options this year.

5. What should I take as outerwear if the weather is unpredictable?
A brolly is your best bet. It’s rarely that cold at Ascot even if it is pelting down. I take a fine cashmere shawl that can fold up into nothing, and a stylish cream pagoda umbrella. Why ruin your look with a folding black umbrella!

6. What are the key colours for this season?
I always say choose what suits you: yellow is key this season, but it’s a tricky colour if you are milk bottle pale like me. Better to be stylish than fashionable.

7. Are flats or heels best for a day at the races?
I’m a fashion editor: I’m always going to say heels! But, please, NEVER platform stripper heels. Nothing looks worse than girls who can’t walk in their shoes. If you can’t face a 4” stiletto like me, then there are lots of mid height heels around this season, and I've been known to take a pair of those clever tiny folding ballet flats in my bag for the walk to and from the station – which is a good ten minutes, and impossible in anything higher than 3”.

8. If you’re on a tight budget, how do you ensure you still look great?
Immaculate grooming: lovely clean shiny hair, painted nails and toes, and a bright lipstick – red for brunettes, orange for blondes, either if you have darker skin. And do wear a hat: they aren't all expensive, try renting or check out Stephen Jones’ wonderful new collection of hats for Designers at  Debenhams

9. Finally, what are you most looking forward to at Royal Ascot 2013?
The designer Suzannah has made me the most beautiful navy silk prom dress to wear on Ladies Day, and I cannot wait to wear it. I would also like to not lose any money with the bookies!

To find out more about Sasha Wilkins, visit her interesting blog LibertyLondonGirl.

#AscotAsks Martha Ward, Key Fashions And Trends For #RoyalAscot

1. Have you got any advice for what colours and patterns are in season this year?
We go through multiple shades each season, but right now it’s all about pinks & reds. And there’s always a place for neutral shades. Print wise - florals of all varieties are big this season, as is snake print.

2. What do you advise this year, flats or heels? And if you can’t wear one of these?
Rather brilliantly it’s all about the flat this season. And kitten heels are all the rage too. Hooray for the ladies!

3. If you’re on a tight budget, can you suggest how to look fabulous?
The high street in the UK is so completely brilliant that dressing on a budget is really no difficulty. Some of my favourite dresses are from H&M and Zara and people still exclaim surprise. My advice is to steer clear of fabrics that look synthetic (i.e. shiny), and too tight or too short never helps, so try and go more classic in style; and to accessorize well - necklaces etc - as that often makes something appear more high end.

4. What size of bag do you suggest for a day at the races?
Although a clutch might be the natural suggestion, the reality is that you need your hands for drinks, bets, and cheering at the finishing line, so I always encourage a ‘hands free’ bag -  i.e. one that has a long-ish strap so that it can sit on your shoulder, or across your body. And not too large or it overtakes the outfit.

5. Is it better to stick with seasonal trends or stand out from the crowd?
Sometimes seasonal trends will MAKE you stand out from the crowd! So don’t be too steered by what’s hot and what’s not. Be comfortable, and if it happens that you are partial to a floral or to red, and that’s the hottest thing right now, then so be it.

6. Can you suggest what to wear to look sophisticated when you are expecting?  
I think empire cut for a bump is a very elegant look. And if it’s a normal dress then you can create the empire line effect by belting loosely just above the bump.


7. How did you get into the Fashion world?

Kind of accidentally actually. I was working at Conde Nast, as magazines was always where my interest lay, and a job came up at Tatler, so I applied for it (with the lovely Natalie Massanet and Kate Reardon) and was offered it, and it was like a duck to water!

8. We all know what the British summer is like, what’s the best way to cover up from the elements in style?
I love a longer sleeve on a dress, so I’d go for that option as there are never any guarantees on weather.  Then you don’t have to worry about outerwear. Or a long line coat over a dress is a very elegant look.  I personally prefer that to a short jacket.  Unless it’s a skirt and top, then a jacket is preferable. Rules rules! Actually, there are no real rules in my book.

9. What are your thoughts on his and hers matching outfits? 
It reminds me of Posh&Becks circa 2000, so I’m veto-ing that look I’m afraid.

10. Finally, what are you most looking forward to at Royal Ascot 2013?
Seeing the lovely Royal Ascot team first & foremost! And pulling out my prettiest outfits to wear, as it’s one of the few occasions when you actually can (and must) do so. I love being a Lady on Ladies Day! Make the most of the dress code I say.

To find out more about Vogue TV's Martha Ward visit her website or to book Royal Ascot tickets visit ascot.co.uk.

A Restaurant Full Of Racing Knowledge

    

For five exciting days in June, Ascot Racecourse is not only filled with hats and fashion but also the most talented thoroughbreds, with the finest horses in the world competing at the very highest level to be in with a chance of making it into the Royal Ascot winners enclosure - every racehorse owners dream.

A new theme is being introduced to the Bessborough Restaurant this year, as it is transformed into the ideal venue for racing enthusiasts and novices alike.  This unique restaurant will feature an iconic racing panel with special guests, who will give racegoers the inside track to the runners and riders, betting and all things Royal Ascot.

The panel includes the colourful John Francome -  once a champion jockey, now author and TV presenter, William Buick, top jockey and winner of 5 races at Royal Ascot in 2012, premier league footballer and racing enthusiast Michael Owen and finally top trainers, Ed Dunlop, Richard Hannon Jnr. and Andrew Balding.

The Bessborough Racing Panel: 
Tuesday:  John Francome, William Buick and Michael Owen
Wednesday:  John Francome, William Buick and Ed Dunlop
Thursday:  John Francome, William Buick and Michael Owen 
Friday:  John Francome, William Buick and Richard Hannon Jnr 
Saturday:  John Francome, William Buick and Andrew Balding 

John Francome, says “This is the best flat race meeting in the world at the best venue in the country and I’m looking forward to hosting the Bessborough Racing Panel with such a strong line-up of racing enthusiasts.” 

Michael Owen, commented, “Horse racing is a huge passion of mine and to be asked to be on the Bessborough Restaurant Racing Panel during Royal Ascot alongside the racing legend John Francome and top jockey William Buick will be a really fun day out for me, I just hope some of my tips will come in!” 



Guests will start the day with some delicious canapés and a glass of Piper Heidsieck Champagne or a cocktail before sitting down to mark their card with the words of wisdom from the panel. 

They can then enjoy a delicious four course luncheon of Loin of Cold Smoked and Cured Salmon on a bed of Cucumber Linguine, Pickled Samphire and Ocean Pearls with a Lobster Vinaigrette, followed by  Roasted Fillet of Angus Beef with a Beaufort and Lemon Thyme Crust and a delicious dessert of Dark Chocolate Fleur de Sel with Salt Caramel and Wild Strawberry Dressing. Luncheon will be completed with some great British Cheeses including the award winning Sussex Charmer Mature Cheddar, before watching the Royal Procession from the private balcony which heralds the start of some world class racing action. 

Between the third and fourth race guests will also enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea.

Fine dining experiences in the Bessborough Restaurant start at £570 (inclusive of VAT) per person and are now on sale.  To find out more information or to make a booking please visit www.royalascothospitality.co.uk, call the Hospitality Team on 0844 346 0346 or email: hospitality@ascot.co.uk.

Caviar To Savour

It’s here – perhaps the most widely anticipated Saturday of Royal Ascot ever. Black Caviar, the highest-rated filly in the world, behind only Frankel on ratings, runs in the Group 1 6f Diamond Jubilee Stakes, the third race on today’s card.

It is going to be such a treat to see the great filly run as she aims to make it an amazing 22 wins from 22 starts and there is no reason at all to think that the speed she has produced to such devastating effect in Australia cannot be reproduced here.

With 1,000s of Australian supporters expected to be here to cheer her home, the atmosphere will be electric in the run-up to the race.

Opposition? Well, they are hard to find, but Krypton Factor produced a Group 1 win in Dubai in the spring, proving that he has true international-class ability. He had valid excuses for defeat last time in Singapore and looks a nice price, albeit that his recent form has been on a tapeta surface.

The French-trained Moonlight Cloud would have finished second to Deacon Blues in the Champions Sprint Stakes here at the Champions meeting last October but for trouble in running. Owned by yesterday’s winning owner George Strawbridge, she put in an impressive performance at the beginning of the month on her seasonal debut when winning the Prix du Palais-Royal (G3) over 7f.

Last year’s winner Society Rock is back again after a fitting outing at York over 6f. He always goes well at Ascot, but looks outclassed here today

So what’s the bet? A one-two for the fillies to lead home the boys.

Destiny Fulfilled with Royal Winner

The hopes of every single racegoer at Royal Ascot came true today with Estimate’s success in the Queen’s Vase for Her Majesty the Queen, giving her victory at the meeting in her Diamond Jubilee year.

The likelihood of a Royal winner had looked to be dwindling as Carlton House was second on Wednesday in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, and then Momentary was well beaten in the Ribblesdale Stakes yesterday, but Estimate and jockey Ryan Moore were not to be denied and ensured that destiny was fulfilled. Moore kicked the filly off the bend and she galloped to a 5l success.

Every available space in the stands was taken as racegoers rushed from racecourse side to paddock side to see the Queen greet her returning heroine. The cheers rang out as she patted her filly, and then again when the Duke Of Edinburgh gave the winning owner her prize. Today was the first time he has handed over a trophy to his wife at her meeting.

“We always thought the filly would get the trip,” said winning trainer Sir Michael Stoute. “It’s a nice position to have horses for Her Majesty running in races such as this with a chance, particularly in a Jubilee year.

“The Queen deserves the success, she contributes so much to racing, and I’m sure the whole country will have appreciated the victory. And for me it’s a great honour.”


The Queen’s beaming smile on the winner’s podium said it all as she enjoyed her 21st success at Royal Ascot as an owner and her first since 2008.

Three-timer for Gosden and Buick

It has also been a day of days for trainer John Gosden and jockey William Buick, who enjoyed the small matter of winning three races: the opening Albany Stakes with Newfangled, the Group 1 Coronation Stakes with Fallen For You and the Listed Wolferton Stakes, courtesy of Gatewood.

All three were for owner-breeder concerns: Fallen For You is owned by Philipa Cooper’s Normandie Stud, while George Strawbridge is the US-based owner of Gatewood. Newfangled, although in Princess Haya’s ownership, was bred by her husband Shiekh Mohammed’s Darley Stud.

The non-Gosden trained winner of the second race, the King Edward VII Stakes (G2), was Thomas Chippendale, trained by Sir Henry Cecil, who also got the one-two in the race. Sir Robert Ogden, who has put so much into horseracing ownership, owns the colt.

Buick said after his third success: “I knew I had some good rides, but then so do a lot of jockey here. To have one winner is amazing, but to have three, well it’s the stuff of dreams. The horses are here in top order, and it is down to the hard work everyone puts in at home.”


Strawbridge, who was enjoying his first Royal Ascot success, laughed: “Breeding racehorse is a little like chicken and feathers – most of the time you end up with feathers.”


Newfangled, a daughter of first-season sire New Approach, took herself to the top of the ante-post betting for next season’s 1,000 Guineas after her impressive victory in the Albany Stakes.

It was Dettori’s Day

After the recent press speculation that Frankie Dettori was losing his position as number one jockey for Godolphin, and was also considering retirement from race riding, the jockey put those rumours to bed in no uncertain fashion by winning the Ascot Gold Cup aboard Colour Vision.

To make matters even more satisfying he beat his Godolphin riding rival Mickael Barzalona, who was aboard the Godolphin-trained Opinion Poll, though a stewards’ enquiry was required to confirm the result. Frankie's winning leap in the Parade Ring was sky high.

“Sheikh Mohammed gave Frankie the choice of rides and he picked Colour Vision feeling he would stay better,” said Simon Crisford, racing manager to Godolphin. “He was proved right today.”

It was the second year in a row that Opinion Poll has finished second in the Ascot Gold Cup – his conqueror last year was Fame And Glory, who was sent off the 4/5 favourite for a repeat success.

“He has come back fine and seems fine after the race. It was an interesting race,” said trainer Aidan O’Brien.

“It was just not to be,” said jockey Jamie Spencer.

Frankel Hits an Official Mark Of 140

Following his breathtaking, 11 length Queen Anne Stakes victory at Royal Ascot on Tuesday, Frankel's official rating has risen by two pounds to 140.

It makes him officially the best since another Prince Khalid Abdulla-owned horse, Dancing Brave, in 1986 who ended his career with a rating of 141.

Apart from his own 138 in the JLT Lockinge Stakes at Newbury last month, Frankel's 140 puts him a massive 16 pounds clear of the next best performances in the 2012 QIPCO British Champions Series - the Epsom victories of Camelot in the Investec Derby and St Nicholas Abbey in the Diamond Jubilee Coronation Cup (sponsored by Investec) and So You Think's Prince of Wales's Stakes triumph at Royal Ascot yesterday.

All three Aidan O'Brien-trained horses earned a British Horseracing Authority (BHA) performance rating of 124 to share top ranking in the Middle Distance division.

Excelebration's 125 when beaten five lengths in the JLT Lockinge Stakes keeps him in second place to Frankel in both the Mile division and the overall Series rankings, though he ran well below his best when finishing more than twice as far behind Frankel on Tuesday, for which he was rated just 115. The Queen Anne third, Side Glance, was rated 114.

Most Improved was awarded a rating of 116 following his St James's Palace Stakes triumph. In the light of that race, the ratings for the QIPCO 2000 Guineas have been dropped by two pounds with Hermival, third at Newmarket and second at Ascot, receiving the same 114 rating for both performances. Gregorian, who was a head back in third in the St James's Palace, was also rated 114.

Camelot's Guineas win drops to 119 and runner-up French Fifteen goes down to 118, but still well above Most Improved.

Hong Kong raider, Little Bridge now tops the Sprint division on a rating of 120 following his fine King's Stand Stakes victory at Royal Ascot on Tuesday.

The King's Stand runner-up, Bated Breath, took a step forward for the season to 118 after recording 116 in the first sprint of the Series, the betfred.com Temple Stakes at Haydock Park. Sole Power ran second to Bated Breath that day and was third in the King's Stand, with both performances rated 115.

So You Think's 124 in yesterday's Prince of Wales's Stakes was a pound below his current official mark of 125.

The runner-up Carlton House, posted 119 - the same mark as he ended last season - while the unlucky third, Farhh, posted a career best 118 and must have the potential to go higher as the season progresses.

Dominic Gardiner-Hill, the BHA's mile handicapper, said: "Frankel's win in the Queen Anne was one of the most visually stunning I have seen in my time as a handicapper and I'm sure was a superior performance to his win in the Lockinge and therefore his rating will rise to 140.

"In the modern era, Dancing Brave is the highest rated horse we have had on 141 and I wouldn't want to put Frankel above him on what he achieved on Tuesday.

"If you look at the quality of the field that Dancing Brave beat in the 1986 Arc, it was chock-full of Group One winners and although Frankel finished a long way clear, beating Side Glance, Indomito and Windsor Palace (Group Two and Three horses at best) does not entitle him to be considered the superior horse at this stage in my opinion."

Rod Street, Chief Executive of the British Champions Series, said: "Frankel has led the way in the QIPCO British Champions Series at every stage, ever since the very first race last year when he blitzed his rivals in the QIPCO 2000 Guineas.

"It looks like he has three Series races left in his career to try to achieve the highest official rating ever, the Coral-Eclipse or the QIPCO Sussex Stakes, followed by the Juddmonte International and then either the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes or the QIPCO Champion Stakes on QIPCO British Champions Day.

"We have to enjoy him while we can as we will surely never see another like him, but now our attention turns to the world's second best horse, Aussie superstar Black Caviar.

"Can she put up as visually stunning a performance as Frankel in Saturday's Diamond Jubilee? A sensational end to the week may await!"

An Irish One-Two in the Gold Cup?

There doesn’t appear to be anything good enough to beat Fame And Glory in the Gold Cup, with the rest of the field looking to be running for second spot. Opinion Poll, last year’s runner-up, should go close again, however Saddler’s Rock could give the Irish a big race one-two. The son of Sadler’s Wells should enjoy today’s ground and is trained by John Oxx, who won the race with Enzeli in 1999.

Last Year's Gold Cup Winner, Fame & Glory

At an each-way price, Mississippi could go well in the Britannia Handicap. A lightly raced type, there were reasons for his down the field run last time. Born To Surprise is the early morning favourite – he is dropping down in class after an eighth in the Craven Stakes (G3) when he missed the break, while it is expected that the stiff mile will suit Ralph Beckett’s Frog Hollow.

Tercentenary Stakes runner Tales Of Grimm is a lovely horse who has been given time after winning his sole start as a juvenile and finishing third to today’s rival Stipulate at the end of May. He could give some recompense to trainer Sir Michael Stoute for Carlton House’s defeat yesterday, while Mukhadam is similarly unexposed and this race has been the plan since the colt’s last time out success.

So no Royal Celebrations Today…

So You Think ended dreams of a Royal winner on day two of the Royal Ascot meeting when the Australian-bred horse denied Carlton House success in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes today.

Although most of the watching crowd were disappointed not to see the Queen in the winner’s enclosure today, trainer Aidan O’Brien was obviously delighted with the outcome.

“So You Think was in danger of retiring a ‘nearly’ horse,” he said. “It has taken me a year and a half to learn how to train this horse – I just have to apologise to everyone in Australia for taking so long to get it right!

“But we listened to what we were told, and we changed the way we trained – we had been galloping him too much and too hard. He is all about speed and we were training that out of him.

“His work at home in the last month has been totally different. I am just delighted to have got him back to where Bart [Cummings] had him.”

It was a first Royal Ascot success for jockey Joseph O’Brien. Plans have not yet been made as to whether the horse will reappear at Sandown for the Eclipse before shipping to stud in Australia.
The Queen does have further chance this week: Momentary runs in the Ribblesdale Stakes tomorrow, while Estimate is entered later in the week.

So You Think’s win gave O’Brien a quick fire double on the card, having taken the opening Jersey Stakes (G3) with Ishvana for his wife Ann-Marie O’Brien, also breeder of the filly.

“Aidan doesn’t feel any more pressure when he is training one for me – he doesn’t listen to what I say anyway!” she laughed, adding that the filly will be kept to 7f for the time being but will probably step back up to a mile later in the year.

Joviality won the second on the card, the Windsor Forest Stakes (G2) for owner Princess Haya and trainer John Gosden, while trainer Tom Tate and jockey John Fahy achieved debut Royal Ascot successes in the Royal Hunt Cup with Prince of Johanne.

“He is a tough little horse and we are still finding out about him. The horse loves doing his own thing and his rider John Fahy is very intuitive and goes with him – he is a very good rider.”

The horse won the Cambridgeshire in the autumn and the double has not been done since 1949!

Competition Winners Enjoy Ascot Success

It was a day of days for The Master Bettors, owners in partnership with breeder Andrew Black, of Ceiling Kitty, winner of the Queen Mary Stakes (G2). The group are all employees at Black’s company betfair and won their shares in a company competition staged through the Cheltenham Festival.

It was an unexpected success though – trainer Tom Dascombe said: “We thought we would win, but not with this filly! But she has experience and is very tough and game.”

Dascombe won last year’s King George V Stakes for business partner Michael Owen with his homebred Brown Panther, and was delighted to have won a race this year for Black, again with a homebred. It’s even stephens over the board room table now!

The last on the card, the Sandringham Handicap Stakes (Listed), went the way of the Niarchos family’s Duntle. Trained by David Wachman in Ireland, unlike Dascombe’s experience with Ceiling Kitty, the trainer has always thought a lot of this daughter of Danehill Dancer.

“She has always shown us a lot at home, but we just got one run into her as a two-year-old,” he said.

“She then won her maiden very easily this spring and Alan Cooper on behalf of the Niarchos family came to see her then.

“She then had a difficult run in a Guineas trial and did well to finish fourth.

“We decided to wait for here. She will be going to the US eventually – she is tailor made for racing there. I am not sure when she will go; I hope I will have for a while longer! She holds plenty of entries

“It is a pleasure to have a winner at Royal Ascot for the Niarchos Family, they have done so much for international racing,” he added.

So What Do You Think?

After the wonderful racing on the opening day of Royal Ascot, today’s Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes sees the Dubai World Cup (G1) third and fourth resume battle.

It would be fine swansong for the Aidan O’Brien-trained So You Think (fourth in Dubai) to round off his racing career before he heads back to his native Australia to take up stallion duties, but the Marco Botti-trained Planteur ran with credit in Dubai when third, and again when filling the same spot in the Prix d’Ispahan behind Golden Lilac (last year’s French 1,000 Guineas and Oaks winner) and Cirrus Des Aigles, the globetrotting star and winner of last season’s Champion Stakes.

But this race could see a resurgence to Group 1 form for the Queen’s runner and last year’s Derby third, Carlton House. A strongly run 1m2f should suit really well – the son of Street Cry has only run twice over the trip, winning both times - and success by the Sir Michael Stoute-trained runner would be a fitting victory in the Diamond Jubilee year.

It is also worth taking a look at an each-way price at the US-trained Big Blue Kitten – he is by the best turf stallion standing in the US and is trained by Chad Brown, a highly capable trainer of middle-distance horses.


The opening 7f Jersey Stakes (G3) could see young trainer Roger Varian get off the mark at Royal Ascot with his improving Aljamaaheer, who finished fourth last time out to yesterday’s St James’s Palace Stakes third, Gregorian.


It could end up being a very good day for Varian, who has his Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) runner-up Nahrain in the Windsor Forest Stakes (G2). She has most to fear from the Group 1 winner Emulous. Both fillies, though, have to shoulder a winners’ penalty, and the record in the race is not good for those carrying such a burden.


Looking elsewhere, Chachamaidee, who finished second in last year’s Sun Chariot Stakes (G1), as well as the Epsom winner and improver Clinical for Sir Mark Prescott, have strong claims.


The Royal Hunt Cup is as ever a competitive handicap, and without the track looking to be carrying a draw bias, it will pay to go with form. Captain Bertie put in an “extraordinary run” (Racing Post) when successful in the Spring Mile earlier this season before winning the Spring Cup, gets in here on a good mark and should like the ground, while Dimension for James Fanswawe is a progressive type. Paul D’Arcy’s Edinburgh Knight is a 7f handicap winner at Ascot and finished fourth in the Lincoln behind Brae Hill


Richard Hannon’s two runners in the race warrant close inspection with King Torus having a first run in a handicap, while Cai Shen finished second in the Britannia Handicap last year, second in the Winter Derby in March and third in a conditions race last time.


Hannon and Mick Channon between them field five for the Queen Mary Stakes (G2). Stable jockey Richard Hughes has plumped for Jubilee Dream for Hannon so she is presumably the first string, while Channon’s Graphic Guest has posted some good form – she beat Hannon’s Hairy Rocket last time - and this race should be run to suit.


Others to consider include Ed Dunlop’s Sheikh Hamdan-owned Sharaarah as this not a usual race for connections to target and so they must be hopeful of chances, as well as the David Wachman-trained Mironica. Wachman’s string has been in good form this spring and this filly is one from one when beating stable mate True Verdict at Naas. That one has since finished second in a Listed event.

New Dress Code Takes Effect Next Week

Special Team of Dress Code Assistants on Hand to Help Racegoers

 

Ascot, UK, Friday June 15, 2012: Approximately 300,000 horse racing and fashion fans will

attend the five-day Royal Meeting which starts on Tuesday (June 19th). The event – one of

the most prestigious race meetings in the world – sees the introduction of a new dress code for racegoers visiting the Royal Enclosure and the Grandstand Admission area.

 

In order to ensure that this is implemented as smoothly as possible, a specially trained team of dress code assistants will be on hand outside the course to assist racegoers who may have any issues with their attire. A selection of waistcoats, ties, pashminas and other items will be available at the turnstiles for those who need them.

 

Attire by Hobbs and Hats by Ilda Di Vico

 

The new dress code was first announced in January and reminders were sent out with

badges and tickets.

 

Style Guides have also been distributed and can be seen online at:

• http://www.ascot.co.uk/go/rencstyle for the Royal Enclosure; and
• http://www.ascot.co.uk/go/gastyle for Grandstand Admission.

Highlights

• For ladies in the Royal Enclosure, dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.
• In the Royal Enclosure, hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.
• For gentlemen in the Royal Enclosure, it is a requirement to wear either black or grey morning dress, which must include a waistcoat and tie (no cravats), a black or grey top hat and black shoes.
• In Grandstand Admission, a hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn by ladies at all times. Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted. Gentlemen are required to wear a suit and tie.

Charles Barnett, Ascot Chief Executive said:

“Ascot is Europe’s flagship race meeting and one of the world’s greatest sporting and social events. We have tried to provide an appropriate dress code that is clear, workable and in line with the wishes of racegoers. Over the last few months, a huge amount of planning has gone in to making sure that the implementation of the new code goes as smoothly as possible. During the meeting itself, our team of special dress code assistants will help people with any queries that they may have.”

#AscotStyle with Lisa Armstrong

In the run up to Royal Ascot, some weeks ago, we invited Lisa Armstrong, Fashion Editor at the Daily Telegraph to take over the @AscotInsider twitter feed and share her styling advice as well as answering any questions put to her.


Both on twitter and in her weekly column in the Saturday Magazine, Lisa spoke of millinery, how to avoid looking too ‘matchy-matchy’ and this season’s bold use of colour and print. Here is a round up of her style advice, ahead of Royal Ascot.




Hats, headpieces and fascinators:

Of headwear trends, Lisa believes that “where people may not previously have worn hats, many will sport headpieces (not to be confused with fascinators).”

In line with the new Royal Ascot dress code, fascinators are no longer allowed in the Royal Enclosure but headpieces with a diameter of 4 inches/10cm or more, as well as hats, are still welcome.

Lisa recommended milliner Bundle MacClaren for stunning head pieces and hats that are relatively inexpensive, but also commented on how brilliant the offering from Marks and Spencer’s is this year. Royal Ascot also has a longstanding affiliation with milliner Stephen Jones whose designs this season are, as always, exceptional.

Jackets, Coats and Coverups:

To avoid looking too ‘matchy-matchy’ and with a typical, unpredictable summer in mind, Lisa suggests a Chanel style jacket as a great cover up that will add a little texture to an outfit. She advised being wary of the length, as too long can look frumpy and too short may appear boxy. She suggests Zara, River Island and Malene Birger as having great high street options.

As well as jackets and pashmina’s Lisa sighted the summer coat with bracelet sleeves as an elegant way of keeping out the chill and again, introducing a little texture and perhaps some print.

Tailoring and Fit:

Believing that “fitted is better than loose” Lisa recommends having clothes bought from the high street tailored to fit if the shape is not quite right and belting more voluminous pieces at the waist.

Colour and Print:

A big trend this season are colour clashes, Lisa suggests being bold with colour and clashing in blocks – a fuchsia dress with an orange shoe. In terms of print, floral is always a quintessentially British but Lisa suggests tribal to be a modern and eye catching alternative.

Maxi Dresses:

Avoid maxi dresses is Lisa’s advise, they can be tricky - looking either too beachy or too much like evening wear.

Lisa’s Favorite Ascot Look:

A smart suit for a modern take on formal daywear dressing or a ‘50s midi prom dress with a cropped cashmere cardigan…“a playful alternative to the traditional suit.”

The Moody Stable Confident About Black Caviar

Black Caviar, the unbeaten Australian sprinting sensation, exercised in Newmarket this morning, Thursday, June 14, during a Royal Ascot media morning ahead of racing in the Group One Diamond Jubilee Stakes over six furlongs on Saturday, June 23.
Even at 5am, she attracted a big turnout of camera crews, journalists and photographers eager to see the six-year-old mare, who is unbeaten in 21 starts.

Black Caviar cantered up the Al Bahathri Polytrack gallop and looked relaxed when led back to her temporary English home, Abington Place Stables, in Bury Road, Newmarket.




Jeff O'Connor, racing manager for her trainer Peter Moody, said: "Everything has gone to plan so far with her, the boys have been happy and she has been eating and sleeping normally.

"We've covered a lot at home and achieved everything we wanted to achieve there. Coming here is not about the prize money, there's a prestige in winning at Ascot that is a pretty big thing.

"We've been here before with two horses - one was placed (Magnus) and the other (Hinchinbrook) didn't get to run. So it's something for Peter to tick off personally as a horse trainer.

"Peter has said he doesn't want to train forever, going on into his 70s or 80s, so it would be a great thing to have an Ascot winner.

"The two boys here, Tony and Pat, have done a great job with Black Caviar and are enjoying it.

"I don't think we ever expected to deal with this sort of level of interest we've seen this morning - it's massive. We are seeing a lot of media crews that aren't normally racing followers today and that's growing and growing.

"We didn't know what to expect on that front but, seeing the turnout this morning, the interest next week is probably going to be a lot bigger than we thought.

"She's come here extremely fit. What we could gather from the record of Australian horses that came over and did well at Ascot was that they were horses that had been racing in the lead-up.

"She has a big engine. Her big stride is probably the most significant thing she has got. Her stride has been measured and is longer than most horses.

"It was her first time travelling on a plane. We were hoping to go to Perth (in Australia) to run in the Ascot race that Paul (Messara) won (with Ortensia) because that would have involved a flight.

"Knowing how the horse had coped with everything , we thought we had the right animal to take to England. The flight was good.

"Pete will be here in the next 24 hours and have a look at her and see if she needs a gallop. Perhaps she could have one little breeze-up and that would be it.

"We're eight runs in (this Australian season) so it has been a long drawn-out plan getting here. The three gallops she did before coming over were as good as I've seen, the tracks were just a bit softer so she wasn't running her normal freakish times, but they were enough to say she was 100 per cent.

"We wanted to make sure we had everything in the tank for Ascot so she had the two races at Morphettville and it's all gone to plan. The signs we're getting are that there are no concerns.

"She took the flight all in her stride. She lost 9-10 kilos coming over which is normal and is eating and drinking well. She has not quite put the weight back on yet which is why she will do very little for the next couple of days.

"It's odd that's she's never been on a plane before and suddenly has to handle 30 hours in transit. She has a very laidback style at home. She puts up with a lot of media, so this is nothing new to her, and she doesn't mind the cameras.

"The owners will be as nervous as I've ever seen them and won't sleep much before the race. But we're fortunate that we have a lot of runners from the stable every week so it's another day at the races for us, just with more attention.

"We've never said this horse only runs to maintain her unbeaten record. We've picked her races and announced them and if rival trainers want to take their horses there they can or they can look for other races. That's probably the most respect she's got that other trainers will abort her races as soon as they know she's there. That's the best accolade you can get, the unbeaten run has just come with that.

"I pretty much believe there isn't a horse that can beat her but anything can happen on any given day in racing, horses get beat and jockeys fall off. Something going wrong out of our control is our biggest scare, and I don't really want to deal with that but if it happens we will have to.

"Newmarket is the home of racing, the gallops are amazing and it's a fantastic place to bring a horse. Any trainer in Australia would be proud to be based here.

"She's not a princess, she's a bit like a colt. She's not demanding but knows she's a bit special but doesn't push it too far.

"She's never raced on a slow or heavy track at home but we've seen her have a lot of gallops at Caulfield on those winter mornings and she's coped with that every time. She had a race trial at Cranbourne before she started racing and did a super time in the heavy going that day. Because of that, we have been confident she would cope with soft ground. Every time she has run, she has brought good weather with her and hopefully that will be the same next week.

"The race is there in July (Darley July Cup) but this comes down to a horseman's call. It is a perfect time frame - three weeks after Ascot - but Pete and his boys, Tony and Pat, need to sit down and make a decision. We are mindful that we do want to go home and race Black Caviar in the spring. With the trip here, there is the question mark about whether we will be able to get her back to race at Melbourne in October.

"We are focused normally on training the horses, which is a massive operation to deal with. I am on leave - my holidays - here and I am starting to see what it is all about. When you step back and see all the focus on her, it is definitely getting bigger and bigger - it is a bit of a cult.

"At home it is business as usual. Me and Pete will thrash out a lot of issues with a lot of horses and Black Caviar probably gets the least amount of time. We spent a lot of time on the plan detailing how we would get her here but during the week I might just get a grunt off Pete and I have to decipher that. I will send an email to the owners and turn a grunt into a paragraph.

"We don't put her above any other horse in the stable as regards assessing them and the owners appreciate that.

"A lot of Australians want to be here to see her run. They will have a lifetime memory, hopefully of her winning, and being here to cheer her home.

"There is the sort of passion you get from football fans - we hear a lot of advice from her fans - what to do and where to run her. They are very passionate fans.

"I would never mention something from a fan to Peter - I would probably get slapped around the ear. Things like should we try a different shoe on her - a lot of it is amusing and many put a lot of thought into their emails and their advice.

"If people get to know she is having a barrier trial at Caulfield, it is pretty much standing room only. We generally don't tell anyone which trial she is in - I feel a little bit sorry for the other horses. Sometimes they are un-raced maidens. It can work both ways as an-unraced maiden who gets within 10 or 12 lengths of her might be alright. We use these barrier trials as a training tool before a race - to get that last fitness. We don't like to run our horses and use a race as an improvement as regards fitness.

"We know we are closer to the end rather than the beginning of Black Caviar's racing career and she is rising six in southern hemisphere time. There is nothing left for her to achieve as a racehorse and she might tell us one day that she wants a bit of peace and quiet. At the moment she loves the camera and enjoys being a racehorse, but one day she might just turn up and say I have had enough - that will be a tough time.

"If you gave me a 100 dollars I would not put it on Black Caviar or Frankel next week as I would not make a lot of money. I would rather put the 100 dollars on odds that someone could offer about Frankel covering Black Caviar one day. From what I have seen of him, he is an outstanding racehorse and she deserves the best.

"Pete will be a bit nervous when you see him tomorrow. I would advise taking a packet of chocolate biscuits if you want to get a chat out of him. I think he will be a bit on edge because of the whole challenge. Nothing is ever done easily in this industry and we have been here before and it hasn't always worked out.

"Magnus was trying to establish a stallion career and it was positive to be placed. We could not have been any more confident with Hinchinbrook last year before he injured himself. We know Black Caviar is a better sprinter than him so we are quite confident on ability but everything needs to fall into place and it will be a nervous time for the next week.

"We don't need any setbacks or issues coming here for this race. If you are an English horse aiming for Ascot and you have a setback, there will be something else later on in the season, We don't want that - we want to go to Ascot and win so we need everything to go right.

"Peter is pretty adamant that if he is 110 per cent happy with her and she lines up she won't be beaten. It is not so much a question of being beaten on ability, it could be bad luck or injuring herself. We probably shouldn't be discussing this. A horse would have to run well above its highest rating to get near her on her current form.

"It would mean a lot for our stable, for Peter personally and for the owners to win the Diamond Jubilee but as far as she is concerned there is probably not a lot to be achieved over and above what she has already done. We know she is a champion. She can only come out of the race negatively if something goes wrong. If she was 17 from 21, there would be less pressure for sure.

"If she is beaten, I don't think Luke would even come back to the mounting yard - I think he would just keep going and find a little barn outside Ascot or Windsor and put her in a stable there and just hide.

"Ascot has been outstanding for racing for a couple of hundred years. Whether Australians enjoy the Queen's association with Australia or not, it is still great to be associated with her this year in her race for what she has done, not only for racing but during her life.

"The owners will be so nervous next week. I have spent a lot of racedays with them and they are OK then. It is the lead-up to a race where they don't sleep and this will be even bigger after a 24-hour flight here. All they will be thinking about is can we be beaten, will we be beaten and that kind of thing.

"The pressure will only ease once Black Caviar retires. The day Pete says that's enough, I think we will all take a month off and look back. The plan is not to retire her immediately unless she tells us to and I can envisage her racing for another year or longer.

"Black Caviar's track work is almost better than any of her races. A lot of time she does not run up to her track work because she has an easy time as she is a 100 per fit from the track work.

"When horses come into the stable for the first time as youngsters, they are given a random nickname and she just happened to get Nelly which was perfect for her. I dare say she will be the last Nelly we ever have. She will be the only horse to wear her colours too.

"If she had been a colt, she probably would have been retired by now. She puts on weight easily and as she gets older it may become harder and harder to get that off. Her racing weight is around 570 kilos - it can get down to 560 and she can get up to 620 in the paddock. We worry a bit when she gets up to that level because it is too much pressure on her legs.

"Eventually she will have some niggles and tell us she has had enough or that she will not be at her best. If she cannot be at her best, she won't race any more. She has always been very strong ever since Pete was in love with her at the yearling sales.

"We went into her first start very confident and we knew on her second start that Black Caviar would go on and be special.

"I am really happy at the welcome Black Caviar has got in England. For me it is not about Black
Caviar beating the poms, an angle which has been put forward. I am thrilled that Black Caviar and Frankel are racing at Royal Ascot in the same week and we can adore them both. We just want to turn up and compete."

JOY AND FUN

Derek Cruz is hopeful that nine-year-old Joy And Fun can fly the flag for Hong Kong in Tuesday's King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot although the trainer admits the recent rain could prove a concern.

"My horse likes a firm track or good to firm but I think he will handle ground that is yielding or just a bit on the soft side," said Cruz. "He seems to be striding out well in his work and has acclimatised well to Europe.

"He was very unlucky on his last start in Dubai when he half missed the start, hopefully it will be a closer race on Tuesday, when Brett Doyle will ride him.

"I think Ortensia is again the one to beat, but if mine runs up to his normal races then he should be in the firing line.

"We are staying away from Black Caviar by going for the King's Stand and I like to take it one race at a time with him but the Darley July Cup at Newmarket could be on his agenda."

LITTLE BRIDGE

Also representing Hong Kong is Little Bridge, who heads to Ascot on the back of two victories for trainer Danny Shum.

"I wanted to come here because England is a fantastic country for horseracing and it is a local Hong Kong trainer's dream to be here," said Shum. "He will run (in the King's Stand Stakes) over 1,000 metres because he is very good at that trip. His best distance is a straight 1,000 metres although he can handle a turn over six furlongs.

"I hope he can handle the track and run a good race for me at Ascot. It's very hard to compare the ground here with Hong Kong, where the track is usually good to firm. I would like to walk the track on Monday with my jockey and my owner. I'd like good ground.

"This is his first trip away since he came from New Zealand (where he was bred) to Hong Kong. It is a long trip but he has acclimatised well - the vets and Clive Brittain helped look after him when he arrived. It's quite hard to get used to the weather here and the new training facilities in Newmarket but he is working better each day in the run-up to the race.

"When he came sixth to Joy And Fun, I made a mistake because I put blinkers on him and he didn't like them. But after that he has run well without blinkers.

"He will not run on Saturday because we plan to run him in Japan in September so he will go into quarantine on Friday in Newmarket then go home to Hong Kong."

KRYPTON FACTOR

Bahrain-based owner-trainer Fawzi Nass is another keeping an anxious eye on the weather as he targets Krypton Factor at the Diamond Jubilee Stakes on Saturday week. The four-year-old was an excellent winner of the Dubai Golden Shaheen in March before finishing fifth in the Krisflyer International Sprint in Singapore in May.

"We were confident of a good run in Dubai but to win in such a fashion was a bit of a surprise," admitted Nass. "We didn't see the best of Krypton Factor in Singapore and I put that down to two things. Firstly he didn't travel over there so well and secondly the ground turned very soft on the raceday, which he didn't enjoy.

"Unfortunately, we've come to a wet country here and we hope for a nice summer week next week. We still have to see him perform on turf at this level. He did well on grass as a two-year-old when trained here by Sir Mark Prescott and also scored on it in Dubai but not at this level.

"Unfortunately, we have Black Caviar in our race, I keep being reminded we are running for second spot and it will certainly take a hell of a horse to beat her. Kieren Fallon will ride."

ORTENSIA

Australian trainer Paul Messara admits there is a chance that the mare Ortensia could line up in both the King's Stand Stakes on Tuesday and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes four days later at Royal Ascot.

"We had trouble travelling Alverta when we came over a couple of years ago so we decided to bring Ortensia here as early as we could this time. That way if there were any problems we could get her settled. She travelled brilliantly from Dubai and is in top order. Even with this weather, she has managed to keep a pretty good coat.

"She was the best she had been before Dubai and I feel she is coming into this race in the same sort of form.

"The ground is a concern, she has mixed form on rain-affected tracks and is better on top of the ground. She has a devastating turn of foot on a quick surface.

"If we were running on a drier track I'd be confident but four or five of the horses in the betting also prefer it firm so it could be an open race. I'd prefer this weather to blow away. I've had a really good look at the form and I think we have most of them covered. If we got good ground, I'd assess her chance very well.

"She is likely to run in blinkers on Tuesday and we look at how she is going into a race before deciding if she will wear them. She's very relaxed going into this so a little focus will help her.

"I will always put the horse's welfare first but if she came through the race fine and the weather was fine then I'd consider running her on Saturday as well. But Black Caviar is the best we have ever seen in the sprinting division.

"I think a stiff five at Ascot would be perfect, although six furlongs in the Darley July Cup would be her limit

"This is a special week and we're thrilled to be here to compete, it's the championship of racing around the world."