Ascot Stakes Preview & Predictions, Royal Ascot 2024

The Ascot Stakes, a competitive 2m4f handicap race at Royal Ascot, is scheduled for today at 5:05 PM. Here’s a detailed analysis of some of the top contenders and their prospects:

Key Contenders:

  1. Postileo:
    • Trainer: Roger Varian
    • Jockey: Ryan Moore
    • Form: 33-112
    • Analysis: Postileo has shown solid form in staying races, including a recent victory. With the experienced Ryan Moore on board, he is a strong contender.
  2. Coltrane:
    • Trainer: Andrew Balding
    • Jockey: Oisin Murphy
    • Form: 431-21
    • Analysis: Coltrane has been consistent in marathon races and recently secured a victory. His experience in big handicaps makes him a formidable opponent.
  3. Calling The Wind:
    • Trainer: Richard Hughes
    • Jockey: Pat Dobbs
    • Form: 3212-34
    • Analysis: Known for his stamina, Calling The Wind has a history of strong performances in long-distance events. He will be aiming to leverage his staying power in this race.
  4. Reshoun:
    • Trainer: Ian Williams
    • Jockey: Jim Crowley
    • Form: 1P-005
    • Analysis: Reshoun is the defending champion of this race, having won it previously. Although his recent form is less impressive, he cannot be discounted based on past performance at Ascot.
  5. Falcon Eight:
    • Trainer: Dermot Weld
    • Jockey: Frankie Dettori
    • Form: 160-35
    • Analysis: With the legendary Frankie Dettori riding and a good history in staying races, Falcon Eight has the potential to perform well despite mixed recent results.

Track Conditions:

  • Going: Good to Firm, with good patches in places. This should favour horses with proven stamina and ability to handle faster ground conditions​.

Betting Trends:

  • Recent trends indicate that horses with proven form over long distances and those who have raced within the past month tend to perform well. Favourites also have a strong record in this race, with several winning in recent years​.

Analysis:

Given the conditions and the competitive nature of the field, Postileo, Coltrane, and Calling The Wind appear to be the leading contenders. Postileo’s recent form and Ryan Moore’s riding skills could give him a slight edge. Coltrane’s consistency and experience in similar races make him a strong challenger, while Calling The Wind’s stamina will be crucial over the long distance.