Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Royal Ascot - Day 2 - Bay Bridge looks exposed

 All selections hit the board on Day 1 and hoping that Day 2 brings the same amount of success.

The Prince of Wales Stakes looks disappointingly thin in my opinion but it looks to be a hotly contested race. I am somewhat surprised that the favourite is Bay Bridge and a short one to say the least. This New Bay colt is only a Grade 3 winner (albeit an impressive one) although he has a superior rating to the rest, which are mainly solid Group 1 winners. Bay Bridge is certainly progressive and could eventually be a Group 1 performer but until he proves himself at this level, I am tempted to lay him in this race. 

Shahryar is a serious Japanese invader and impressive winner of the Sheema Class in Dubai. The Japanese have conquered all in their late forays in international festivals starting with last year's Breeders Cup, then in Saudi Arabia, and eventually in Dubai. They are starting to conquer the world and the quality of their stock is as good as anywhere now. And they'll get better as they have shrewdly enhanced their broodmare quality. This son of Deep Impact must have a top chance.

State of Rest has proven a serious international traveller winning top-level races in the USA, Australia and France. He was third in the Tattersalls Gold Cup behind Alenquer but wasn't disgraced at all. He should be at the finish.

Lord North might be a step slower this year at the age of 6 but he's still proven to be a contender in his races. He finished behind State of Rest in the Tattersalls Gold Cup which leads me to think that the latter has more upside that this old warrior.

Grand Glory is a Group 1 winner in France but I think she's a few pounds short at this level.

I believe this will turn out to be a battle between Shahryar and State of Rest. Punting on both to win might be a good way to cover both and still win. 

Win: Shahryar/State of Rest


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