Tips and previews for a fine mid-summer card at Ascot on Saturday The UK’s mid-summer showpiece, the Group 1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes, staged at Ascot has attracted an all-star cast in what promises to be a fine spectacle at the historic Berkshire track. Dual-Derby winner Auguste Rodin heads the market and takes on a host of talent including; Irish Derby winner Westover; old rival King Of Steel; Coronation Cup winner Emily Upjohn, last year’s victor of this race Pyledriver and Hukum, who shrugged off 2022 English Derby winner Desert Crown last time at Sandown. As a result there is good value to be found and bet365 are offering €30 in free bets for Irish and UK customers: King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes (Group 1) 3:40 Ascot This highly-anticipated showdown, in which younger horses take on their older rivals, is shaping up to be one of the races of the season. Auguste Rodin, who completed the English/Irish Derby double stands out as the one to side with. The son of Deep Impact showcased his tenacity when he triumphed over the courageous King Of Steel in a thrilling contest at Epsom. Aidan O’Brien has been outwardly complimentary of his star horse who demonstrated even greater talent, when he claimed victory in the Irish equivalent on his latest outing. Among the older horses, Hukum poses a significant threat following his impressive Brigadier Gerard victory upon his return after a long layoff. The reigning champion from last year, Pyledriver, and Coronation Cup heroine, Emily Upjohn are also ones to consider. Bateaux London Princess Margaret Stakes (Fillies' Group 3) 1:50 Ascot Symbology showed great potential with an impressive debut victory at York last week. Trained by Clive Cox, this filly appears to have room for further improvement, making her a strong contender and the selection in this Group 3. Another filly worth considering is Pretty Crystal, who put up a respectable performance at Royal Ascot in June, finishing fifth in the Albany over the same course and distance. If she manages to position herself closer to the pace, she could be a serious threat. Lunar Shine is also a noteworthy competitor, having secured victory at Thirsk on debut in June. Although this race represents a significant step up in class for the daughter of Kodiac, she shouldn't be underestimated given her promising start. Longines Valiant Stakes (Fillies' & Mares' Group 3) 2:25 Ascot Random Harvest has shown excellent form this season, producing two impressive performances, most notably when she narrowly missed out by a neck in the Duke Of Cambridge at Royal Ascot. Although stepping up to Group 1 company in the Falmouth at Newmarket proved challenging for the five-year-old last time, she now benefits from a drop in class, which could work in her favour and she is the pick. Cadeau Belle arrives at this event with an unbeaten record, having progressed from her maiden victory to triumph in a Listed contest at Navan. Her form demands utmost respect and she is a big danger. Thornbrook won a Listed contest at Chatilly last time and is open to further improvement, the daughter of Saxon Warrior adds plenty of flavour to a competitive affair. Please gamble responsibly. 18+ Be Gamble Aware. Dunlewey.org
