Paul Ferguson three selections from Royal Ascot for us on Thursday; Wild Illusion at 3:40 and Stradivarius at 4:20 and Crack On Crack On at 5.00.
A winner at the meeting 12 months ago and a hugely impressive winner on his return at York, Stradivarius (4:20) is fancied to step forward and land this afternoon’s Ascot Gold Cup.
He has ground to make up with both Order Of St George and Torcedor from Champions Day, but he appears to be improving at a rate of knots and, crucially, has the quick ground in his favour today.
The trip is obviously an unknown, but he looks as though he will stay to me and his turn of foot could prove a big asset on this ground.
Earlier on the card, I’d side with form over potential in the Ribblesdale Stakes, favouring Wild Illusion (3:40) over Sun Maiden. The Godolphin filly finished fourth in the 1,000 Guineas – form advertised at the weekend by Laurens – and runner-up in the Oaks, whereas her main market rival won a novice event at Salisbury, albeit by 12 lengths. With that in mind, I’m slightly surprised that there isn’t much between them in the betting.
The Britannia Stakes looks as competitive as ever, but Crack On Crack On (5:00) is progressing nicely and is a three-year-old I am quite fond of. Clive Cox’s chestnut came from last-to-first to win a Lingfield handicap on his return, before taking the Silver Bowl at Haydock. He needs to prove his ability to do it on a straight mile track, but he remains a colt to keep onside and is worthy of each-way support.
Thursday’s selections:
3:40 Royal Ascot – Wild Illusion; 3/1 Coral
4:20 Royal Ascot – Stradivarius; 2/1 Ladbrokes
5:00 Royal Ascot – Crack On Crack On; 8/1 bet365
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