RACING AHEAD: Royal Ascot review

Tuesday: Kings Stand (Group 1) (3yo+) 5f 18 run

It must be noted that G FORCE completely missed the break and the run, where he eventually finished last of the 18 runners, can be dismissed.

The favourite Sole Power was always trying to make up ground as GOLDREAM, MEDICIAN MAN and MUTHMIR struck for home. It looked for a while that there might be a shock on the cards, as Medician Man hit the front at 50/1. He was brave in defeat though, holding the lead until the shadows of the post, beaten by the Robert Cowell-trained Goldream.

Again, JACK DEXTER ran a gallant race in defeat, finishing seventh of the 18 runners beaten three-and-a-half lengths. He should be noted if running again at Doncaster or Ayr on a softer surface, over his preferred six furlongs.

Wednesday: Royal Hunt Cup (Class 2) (3yo+) 1m 30 Ran

It was a win for runners who found their way across to the far side of the track.

As the field reached the two furlong marker, it was clear the far side runners were well ahead of the opposition running under the shadows of the stand. GM Hopkins led well inside the final furlong seeing off the late surge of Roger Charlton’s Temptress.

Third place CHIL THE KITE, fifth place SPECULATIVE BID and AMERICAN HOPE should all be followed soon as they will possibly be running from dangerous marks. Balty Boys, finished first of 15 under the stands rail, but the handicapper may well have him in his sights now.

Thursday: Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) (2yo) 5f 10 Ran

Upfront, race-watchers were aghast as market leaders and Richard Hannon pair KING OF ROOKS and LOG OUT ISLAND took each other on for the lead. It was only a matter of time that something would pick up the pair.

Enter, who else, but Ryan Moore on the Aiden O’Brien-trained WATERLOO BRIDGE who lead inside the final furlong to win by a good half-length at 12/1.

Friday: Albany Stakes (Group 3) (2yo) 6f 18 Ran

Inside the final furlong Kevin Ryan’s ASHADIHAN found himself challenging for the lead as Richard Hughes and Jamie Spencer went head to head. But it was Hughes who prevailed on the 3/1 favourite, ILLUMINATE.

The first three in the race can be followed along with the fourth, Fireglow, fifth, GLENROWAN ROSE and sixth, SPANISH ROMANCE who were three lengths clear of the remaining 12 runners.

My full Diary Notes with more horses to watch can be found at beforetheoff.com

Finally, can I thank Alan and his team at Tiger Computers on Quay Road for their assistance last week, especially during Royal Ascot.