Royal Ascot's second day is set to deliver high drama, with all eyes on the Group One Prince of Wales's Stakes at 4:20 pm, where French racing sensation Daryz, winner of last season's Arc, will attempt to secure victory. The prestigious race pits Daryz against a strong field, including Ombudsman, who is aiming to clinch the title for a second consecutive year. Also in contention are MinnieHauk, the Arc runner-up, and Almaqam, a recent Group One winner in Ireland, both offering strong each-way prospects.
The conditions at Ascot are reported as Good to Firm, following 5mm of overnight watering and some morning drizzle that has had little effect on the racing surface. GoingStick readings at 8:30 am indicated 8.9 on the Stands' side, 8.7 in the Centre, and 8.5 on the Far side for the straight track, while the round course measured 7.6. These conditions are expected to provide a fair and fast surface for all races.
While Arc winners are no strangers to Ascot, they typically compete in the King George in July rather than the Royal meeting. Daryz marks a significant appearance as the first reigning Arc winner to participate in this meeting since Treve, who finished third in the Prince of Wales's Stakes in 2014. This adds an extra layer of anticipation to today's feature event.
Beyond the Prince of Wales's Stakes, the day's card is diverse, offering a range of challenges across different distances. The action kicks off with the five-furlong Queen Mary Stakes (Group 2) for juvenile fillies at 2:30 pm. This is followed by the Queen's Vase, a mile-and-three-quarters race where Point Of Law, the second royal runner of the week, is expected to start at approximately 8-1. The main handicap race of the day, the Royal Hunt Cup, promises a thrilling spectacle with a 30-runner field competing over the straight mile.
Two non-runners have been confirmed for Wednesday's racing. In the 2:30 pm Queen Mary Stakes, 'Your Song' will not participate, having been sold at the Goffs London Sale on Monday and subsequently transferred to America. Additionally, 'Song N Dance' has been withdrawn from the 5:35 pm Kensington Palace Stakes (Fillies' Handicap) due to an infection, confirmed by a vet's certificate. Despite these changes, the stage is set for a captivating day of equestrian sport at Royal Ascot.
Source: The Guardian