Puturhandstogether, trained by Joseph O'Brien, is set to challenge the Royal favourite in the Ascot Stakes. The market leader, Reaching High, is a favourite to win, but Puturhandstogether looks like a solid each-way contender, given its respectable performance in the Chester Cup.
The Chester Cup was a difficult contest for Puturhandstogether, as it was handed a challenging draw in stall 17 and stumbled at the start. Despite these circumstances, the runner finished a highly respectable seventh, a performance that can be upgraded considerably.
With a smoother passage and drying ground likely to play to its strengths, Puturhandstogether looks capable of getting much closer to the Royal favourite. The runner's recent performances can be forgiven, given that it came over trips that were short of its optimum and without the hood applied.
The 2025 Cesarewitch winner Beylerbeyi is also worth noting, with the hood and tongue tie both back in place. Beylerbeyi produced a highly impressive performance to land the prestigious prize at Newmarket, despite carrying top-weight.
The Ascot Stakes takes place at 5.00pm, with Puturhandstogether and Beylerbeyi looking like solid contenders.