June 16 / 17.00 Ascot

17.00

Good To Firm

Ascot Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

  • Prize money: £61848
  • 2m 3f 210y
  • Class 2
  • 20 runners
ITV
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Ascot Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (GBBPlus Race)

Runners: 20 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Cloudy

18/1

  • Place: £10.10

Form: 147-04

Last run: 35 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Unraced on firmer than good and his form claims are pretty flimsy; however, he's one of the dark horses of the race after just six starts and he's shaped at 1m6f as if he may well be an out-and-out stayer; has tried cheekpieces and a visor once each, and now blinkers are given a go; close relation Middle Earth was third over 2m in last year's Melbourne Cup.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

10

(7)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Defiantly

9st 5lb

J: James Doyle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Unraced on firmer than good and his form claims are pretty flimsy; however, he's one of the dark horses of the race after just six starts and he's shaped at 1m6f as if he may well be an out-and-out stayer; has tried cheekpieces and a visor once each, and now blinkers are given a go; close relation Middle Earth was third over 2m in last year's Melbourne Cup.

18/1

4th

1

(1)

12th May 2026

Good

1m 6f 44y

20:10 Killarney

Defiantly

9st 12lb

J: J M Sheridan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Highly tried at Listed level last season after winning his maiden here; the concern is a very laboured comeback run on handicap debut at Cork.

4/1

20/1

  • Place: £3.40

Form: 131

Last run: 16 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Last year he was a bumper winner (sole attempt) and ran twice over hurdles; now he's a useful prospect, at the least, under Flat rules having won a maiden at Bellewstown (11.4f, soft) and conditions event at Listowel (1m, good) and he kept on well behind Kizlyar over 1m6f in between, all from off the pace; this race is radically different but he is promising and seriously unexposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

19

(19)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Tim Toe

9st 3lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: Henry De Bromhead

Last year he was a bumper winner (sole attempt) and ran twice over hurdles; now he's a useful prospect, at the least, under Flat rules having won a maiden at Bellewstown (11.4f, soft) and conditions event at Listowel (1m, good) and he kept on well behind Kizlyar over 1m6f in between, all from off the pace; this race is radically different but he is promising and seriously unexposed.

20/1

1st

1

(2)

31st May 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

15:50 Listowel

Tim Toe

10st 7lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: Henry De Bromhead

Bumper winner and fair maiden hurdler; won Bellewstown maiden over 1m3f; third in slowly-run 1m6f heat at Killarney and opening mark likely flatters him; surely beatable over this trip.

6/1

3rd

4

(7)

12th May 2026

Good

1m 6f 44y

20:10 Killarney

Tim Toe

9st 12lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: Henry De Bromhead

Bumper winner (on good) who added a 1m3f maiden at Bellewstown last month (soft); he'll need to better that form if he's to be winning this.

6/1

4th
3 (3)
Barnso

25/1

Form: 44460-

Last run: 248 days

W: 9st 8lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Markedly progressive overall when trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off with an always-prominent fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot 2025 (1m6f, good to firm; 2lb lower today); respectable show at Goodwood last summer, ten weeks before running poorly in the Cesarewitch when going beyond 1m6f for first time was not to blame; bit to prove on first run since.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

(3)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Barnso

9st 8lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall when trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off with an always-prominent fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot 2025 (1m6f, good to firm; 2lb lower today); respectable show at Goodwood last summer, ten weeks before running poorly in the Cesarewitch when going beyond 1m6f for first time was not to blame; bit to prove on first run since.

25/1

3

(14)

11th Oct 2025

Good

2m 2f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

Barnso

9st 4lb

J: Rossa Ryan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall when trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off with an always-prominent fourth of 16 at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm); changed hands before a respectable show at Goodwood ten weeks ago; while going beyond 1m6f for the first time looks worth a go, it's hard to know whether it will help sufficiently to win this top handicap.

28/1

6th

6

(11)

2nd Aug 2025

Soft

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

13:55 Goodwood

Barnso

9st 3lb

J: David Egan

T: Alan King

Markedly progressive overall trained by Natalia Lupini in Northern Ireland, rounding it off on last two outings with fourth of six in slowly run Listed race at Navan (1m6f, soft) in April and always-prominent fourth of 16 in handicap at Royal Ascot (1m6f, good to firm); changed hands since; respected.

16/1

Form: 31199- BF

Last run: 228 days

W: 9st 4lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
1m4f festival wins off much lower marks at Chester and Epsom preceded his 100,000gns purchase last July; two Flat runs (including 2m Irish Cesarewitch) last autumn didn't work out but there was encouragement to be drawn from his two hurdle races last month (second on latest) and he scored over an extended 1m6f in 2024; not entirely dismissed, from stable which runs seven.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

12

(17)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Small Fry

9st 4lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

1m4f festival wins off much lower marks at Chester and Epsom preceded his 100,000gns purchase last July; two Flat runs (including 2m Irish Cesarewitch) last autumn didn't work out but there was encouragement to be drawn from his two hurdle races last month (second on latest) and he scored over an extended 1m6f in 2024; not entirely dismissed, from stable which runs seven.

18/1

2nd

11

30th May 2026

Good

2m 0f 100y

14:41 Listowel

Small Fry

11st 12lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Five Flat wins in UK and ran respectably in two autumn Flat starts for this yard after 100,000gns purchase; previous efforts over hurdles were modest but there was promise in his run at Down Royal (2m2f, good) earlier this month when staying on for fourth; entitled to improve over that return; contender.

9/4

4th

6

4th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 88y

13:35 Down Royal

Small Fry

11st 12lb

J: Hugh Horgan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Five Flat wins in UK and ran respectably both starts for this yard last autumn after 100,000gns purchase; just modest form both hurdle runs in UK, but could do better now that he is more mature; check for market strength.

4/1

Form: 000-24

Last run: 39 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Unraced on firmer than good; second at Navan (1m6f, heavy) in March on Flat handicap debut; backed that up with her excellent, close fourth of 15 when third favourite for the Chester Cup (2m2f, good; 1lb higher today) in May, coming from towards rear after a slow start; has to be considered but such a wide draw may mean she again has to come from well back.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

3

(5)

27th Jul 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Galileo Dame

11st 11lb

J: Mr B O’Neill

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual-purpose mare; only Flat win came in Leopardstown 3yo maiden (1m2f); good form this term in very competitive handicaps, second at Navan, close fourth of 15 in 2m2f Chester Cup, seventh of 20 behind a stablemate in 2m4f Ascot Stakes; most recent run was in a Group race; one of five for the stable.

12/1

7th

2

(7)

8th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 5f 200y

18:50 Fairyhouse

Galileo Dame

9st 9lb

J: Scott McCullagh

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual-purpose mare, whose only Flat win came in Leopardstown 3yo maiden (1m2f); in good form however this term in very competitive handicaps, second at Navan, close fourth of 15 in 2m2f Chester Cup and 4.5l off stablemate Kizlyar when seventh of 20 in 2m4f Ascot Stakes last month; bit to find with some of these now entering Group company but don't rule out.

8/1

12/1

Form: 322360

Last run: 11 days

W: 9st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm; 9lb higher today) last October and had some very solid AW form over 1m2f-2m this year; not nearly so good in his two races back on turf but his recent run at Epsom (1m2f) should have teed him up nicely for this; current mark and tactical issues coming from the rear are the chief worries.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

2

(7)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Newmarket (July)

Beylerbeyi

9st 9lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Ian Williams

Tricky to settle and is held up in rear; won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm; 9lb higher today) last October and had some very solid AW form over 1m2f-2m this year; back to near his best when eighth of 20 at Royal Ascot (2m4f) but he needs to hit a new high if he's to win this.

16/1

8th

1

(16)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Beylerbeyi

9st 12lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Ian Williams

Won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm; 9lb higher today) last October and had some very solid AW form over 1m2f-2m this year; not nearly so good in his two races back on turf but his recent run at Epsom (1m2f) should have teed him up nicely for this; current mark and tactical issues coming from the rear are the chief worries.

12/1

10th

5

(17)

5th Jun 2026

Good To Soft

1m 2f 17y

Class 2

15:15 Epsom

Beylerbeyi

9st 3lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Ian Williams

Acts on good to soft, much more to prove on soft; won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm; 10lb higher today) last October and had some very solid AW form over 1m2f-2m this year, prior to tailing off at 50-1 in the Group 3 Ormonde at Chester four weeks ago; he's not on a bad mark but plenty needs to go right if one of his late rushes is to prevail in this.

33/1

Form: 1/17/ BF

Last run: 756 days

W: 9st 3lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
Ran three times on the Flat in France, winning over 1m7f on testing ground on first two occasions; that was back in 2023 and spring 2024, but he was a progressive and fairly useful hurdler in the hood for this yard last season (last seen in April) and is unexposed for this Flat handicap debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

17

(9)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

All In You

9st 3lb

J: Edward Greatrex

T: Warren Greatrex

Ran three times on the Flat in France, winning over 1m7f on testing ground on first two occasions; that was back in 2023 and spring 2024, but he was a progressive and fairly useful hurdler in the hood for this yard last season (last seen in April) and is unexposed for this Flat handicap debut.

25/1

4th

8

18th Apr 2026

Soft

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Ayr

All In You

10st 6lb

J: James Bowen

T: Warren Greatrex

Went close on stable debut in big field at Ascot (1m7f, soft) in December then won at Sandown (2m, good) in January, turning the tables on Dance And Glance who won a nice prize at Haydock this month; 5lb out of the handicap today and pulled up in the William Hill Hurdle at Newbury in February, but very few ran to form in that attritional contest; retains potential; chance.

15/2

10

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 0f 69y

Class 1

15:20 Newbury

All In You

11st 3lb

J: James Bowen

T: Warren Greatrex

Overall record (Flat/hurdles) is 5-11; couple of very sound performances this term for new stable, nearly collaring Dance And Glance at Ascot (1m7f, soft) then reversing placings with that rival in comfortable fashion at Sandown (2m, good); open to further progress and has strong claims.

13/2

10th
11 (13)
Bahadur

22/1

Form: 11-651

Last run: 25 days

W: 9st 5lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Progressive on AW last autumn and another improved effort when he went on over 3f out to win a five-runner race at Goodwood (upped to 2m, good) on latest outing; up 4lb but could have more to give as a stayer.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

(1)

18th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

2m 0f 110y

Class 2

14:25 Newbury

Bahadur

9st 10lb

J: William Buick

T: S Woods

Progressive on AW last autumn and he's been a bit better this season too; won five-runner race at Goodwood (upped to 2m, good) in May and, having been mid-division at Royal Ascot (2m4f), made most when fifth of 20 in the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle (2m, AW); in the mix.

11/2

5th

6

(17)

27th Jun 2026

Standard To Slow

2m 0f 56y

Class 2

15:15 Newcastle (AW)

Bahadur

9st 3lb

J: William Buick

T: S Woods

Progressive on AW last autumn, including here, and another improved effort when he won a five-runner race at Goodwood (upped to 2m, good) this May; mid-division at 14-1 in the 2m4f Ascot Stakes 11 days ago, not discredited but he probably needs to resume improvement in another major handicap today.

16/1

10th

11

(13)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Bahadur

9st 5lb

J: Robert Havlin

T: S Woods

Progressive on AW last autumn and another improved effort when he went on over 3f out to win a five-runner race at Goodwood (upped to 2m, good) on latest outing; up 4lb but could have more to give as a stayer.

22/1

Form: 003-0P

Last run: 44 days

W: 9st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Always behind in his two races this spring (1m2f/1m4f; ended pulled up last time) and last season was a mixed bag; however, his strong-finishing thirds last year in this race (off 1lb lower than today) and another big-field contest at Naas (2m) show that he needs a close look, particularly as some headgear (absent this season) is reinstated.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

8

(20)

27th Jul 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Comfort Zone

11st 9lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Most recent of his five wins was in a valuable 2m handicap at Naas in October 2024; ran poorly when well fancied for this race last year, others seem more dependable; one of three in the field for his owner, Derek O'Connor rides.

14/1

11th

8

(14)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Comfort Zone

9st 6lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Always behind in his two races this spring (1m2f/1m4f; ended pulled up last time) and last season was a mixed bag; however, his strong-finishing thirds last year in this race (off 1lb lower than today) and another big-field contest at Naas (2m) show that he needs a close look, particularly as some headgear (absent this season) is reinstated.

18/1

4

(5)

3rd May 2026

Yielding

1m 4f 30y

15:43 Cork

Comfort Zone

9st 7lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Three-time hurdle winner went close in 2m4f Ascot Stakes last June; finished well when close third in 2m Naas handicap in October; this trip is on the short side.

12/1

OUR TIP
12th
2 (10)
Bunting

11/1

Form: 3/453-

Last run: 248 days

W: 9st 10lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Poor strike-rate (two maiden wins) in Flat and hurdling spheres and he went the wrong way in his latest hurdles campaign; however, he ran well in two major Flat handicaps last season, including when third to Beylerbeyi in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm); 3lb higher today but 7lb claimer Harry Vigors is booked; like so many, he has each-way hopes.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

2

(10)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Bunting

9st 10lb

J: Harry Vigors

T: W P Mullins

Poor strike-rate (two maiden wins) in Flat and hurdling spheres and he went the wrong way in his latest hurdles campaign; however, he ran well in two major Flat handicaps last season, including when third to Beylerbeyi in the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good to firm); 3lb higher today but 7lb claimer Harry Vigors is booked; like so many, he has each-way hopes.

11/1

6th

1

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 3f 58y

15:40 Punchestown

Bunting

11st 12lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Modest strike-rate over hurdles for one of his ability, hasn't added to Limerick maiden win as a 3yo, albeit some good runs in top company; didn't land a blow in BetMGM Cup at Cheltenham on latest but previous Leopardstown fourth was a solid effort; major claims down in grade here.

100/30

9th

21

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Bunting

10st 12lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: W P Mullins

Raced freely when 12-1 in this last year and was pulled up; a maiden hurdle in December 2023 remains his last win and he's not been consistent, but such performances as his Flat third in the Cesarewitch (second favourite; plenty went wrong) in October and fourth of 16 in a hot 2m4f handicap hurdle at Leopardstown in December show that he can still be competitive on his day.

12/1

Form: 00-071

Last run: 23 days

W: 9st 4lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Officially unraced on firmer than good; ex-Polish and German, placed in 1m2f Group races in 2024 before a 260,000euros sale; failed to fire last year (including one 2m1f race) but shaped nicely on second start this term and landed a gamble in clearcut fashion in 24-runner handicap at the Curragh (1m6f, good) on latest, challenging 2f out; he was ridden that day as if stamina is a strength and, despite his revised mark, is one to note.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

7

(11)

27th Jul 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Westminster Moon

11st 10lb

J: Mr Finian Maguire

T: A J Martin

Ex-Polish and German, placed in 1m2f Group races in 2024; took a while to find his level in Irish handicaps; decisively landed a gamble in a 24-runner handicap at the Curragh (1m6f, good) in May; never threatened in the Ascot Stakes; this trip should be within his range; live each-way chance.

12/1

13th

13

(11)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Westminster Moon

9st 4lb

J: Seamie Heffernan

T: A J Martin

Officially unraced on firmer than good; ex-Polish and German, placed in 1m2f Group races in 2024 before a 260,000euros sale; failed to fire last year (including one 2m1f race) but shaped nicely on second start this term and landed a gamble in clearcut fashion in 24-runner handicap at the Curragh (1m6f, good) on latest, challenging 2f out; he was ridden that day as if stamina is a strength and, despite his revised mark, is one to note.

12/1

1st

9

(1)

24th May 2026

Good To Yielding

1m 6f 0y

17:40 Curragh

Westminster Moon

9st 8lb

J: Seamie Heffernan

T: A J Martin

Four-time winner in Poland at up to 1m4f and placed in German Group 1 and Italian Group 2 in 2024; not fired since joining current yard, but his run at Cork last time when running on for seventh (1m3f, good to yielding) was eye-catching; check market.

33/1

Form: 003-86

Last run: 60 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
1m4f winner from the front off this mark at Newmarket last May who also scored with a prominent ride over hurdles at Cheltenham (2m5f) in November; has a bit to prove over 2m on Flat, including having been always behind on both starts this year; now tries a visor (often wears cheekpieces) and maybe there will be a change of tactics.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

5

(2)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Lavender Hill Mob

9st 6lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: James Owen

1m4f winner from the front off this mark at Newmarket last May who also scored with a prominent ride over hurdles at Cheltenham (2m5f) in November; has a bit to prove over 2m on Flat, including having been always behind on both starts this year; now tries a visor (often wears cheekpieces) and maybe there will be a change of tactics.

40/1

6th

1

(7)

17th Apr 2026

Good

2m 0f 110y

Class 3

16:20 Newbury

Lavender Hill Mob

9st 10lb

J: Mason Paetel

T: James Owen

1m4f winner from the front (under Mason Paetel) at Newmarket last May who also scored with a prominent ride over hurdles at Cheltenham (2m5f) in November; had a bit to prove on AW (and over 2m on Flat) when always behind at Kempton three weeks ago but should be benefited from that run.

14/1

8th

1

(5)

28th Mar 2026

Standard To Slow

1m 7f 218y

Class 2

14:08 Kempton (AW)

Lavender Hill Mob

10st 0lb

J: Mason Paetel

T: James Owen

1m4f winner from the front (under Mason Paetel) at Newmarket last May who also scored with a prominent ride over hurdles at Cheltenham (2m5f, soft) in November; not seen since tailed off trying nearly 3m in December; returns to Flat with a bit to prove on AW and over 2m on Flat.

10/1

20/1

Form: 1020-1

Last run: 78 days

W: 9st 6lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Brought from Ireland last year for Glorious Goodwood (2m4f, soft; second off 6lb lower than today) and the Cesarewitch (2m2f, good to firm; 14th); reappeared this spring with a career best on Flat to win at Navan (1m6f, heavy) and a creditable third in 3m hurdle race, but another career high is needed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

6

(12)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Mordor

9st 6lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Gordon Elliott

Brought from Ireland last year for Glorious Goodwood (2m4f, soft; second off 6lb lower than today) and the Cesarewitch (2m2f, good to firm; 14th); reappeared this spring with a career best on Flat to win at Navan (1m6f, heavy) and a creditable third in 3m hurdle race, but another career high is needed.

20/1

3rd

1

15th May 2026

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 50y

18:30 Kilbeggan

Mordor

11st 12lb

J: Josh Williamson

T: Gordon Elliott

Dual hurdles winner was last seen over timber finishing eighth of 24 in the 2025 Martin Pipe (2m5f, good to soft); kept on Flat since then and added a third win in that sphere when successful at Navan last time (1m6f, heavy); most of his wins came on good ground, so leading contender back over obstacles fit and in form.

9/4

3rd

3

2nd May 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

18:35 Punchestown

Mordor

12st 6lb

J: Maxime De Chambord

T: Gordon Elliott

Rated 126 over fences and 94 on the Flat, 1m6f win off 87 at Navan latest, leading chance.

9/4

Form: 7/31-7 BF

Last run: 39 days

W: 9st 4lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
Won 4yo handicap hurdle at 2025 Cheltenham Festival and took a huge prize for Irish Cesarewitch on Flat at the Curragh (2m1f, yielding) last September, in the latter bursting clear 1f out and scoring with considerably more authority than the margin suggests; underwhelming over hurdles before last month's Chester Cup, in which he also had the widest draw, but he started favourite nevertheless and made some headway from the back to finish seventh of 15; he didn't have the rub of the green that day and is shortlisted even though connections also now resort to headgear.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16th

16

(5)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Puturhandstogether

9st 4lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Won 4yo handicap hurdle at 2025 Cheltenham Festival and took a huge prize for Irish Cesarewitch on Flat at the Curragh (2m1f, yielding) last September, in the latter bursting clear 1f out and scoring with considerably more authority than the margin suggests; underwhelming over hurdles before last month's Chester Cup, in which he also had the widest draw, but he started favourite nevertheless and made some headway from the back to finish seventh of 15; he didn't have the rub of the green that day and is shortlisted even though connections also now resort to headgear.

6/1

7th

10

(17)

8th May 2026

Good

2m 2f 140y

Class 2

15:05 Chester

Puturhandstogether

8st 11lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

One of three for Joseph O'Brien; won 4yo handicap hurdle at 2025 Cheltenham Festival and also took a huge prize for last September's Irish Cesarewitch on Flat at the Curragh (2m1f, yielding); underwhelming in his three handicap hurdles in November-April, which is a concern, as is today's widest stall, but his Curragh win (bursting clear 1f out) was delivered with considerably more authority than the winning margin suggests; respected.

9/1

Form: 1637-5

Last run: 38 days

W: 9st 6lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Wore cheekpieces last six starts, winning in late summer last year on first two occasions; a late effort took him from last to fifth of 14 when he made a good reappearance here (1m4f, good to firm) last month but venturing beyond an extended 1m4f for first time provides a huge question mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

17th

9

(18)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Siempre Arturo

9st 6lb

J: Jason Watson

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Wore cheekpieces last six starts, winning in late summer last year on first two occasions; a late effort took him from last to fifth of 14 when he made a good reappearance here (1m4f, good to firm) last month but venturing beyond an extended 1m4f for first time provides a huge question mark.

33/1

5th

1

(9)

9th May 2026

Good

1m 3f 211y

Class 3

14:55 Ascot

Siempre Arturo

9st 9lb

J: Jason Watson

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

The winner of eight of his 22 starts, the latest success coming at Kempton (1m4f) off a 2lb lower mark; ended 2025 with a couple of lesser runs and might be best watched on return.

33/1

6th

1

(3)

28th Sep 2025

Standard

1m 4f 98y

Class 3

16:30 Newcastle (AW)

Siempre Arturo

10st 4lb

J: Nicola Currie

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Has gone 2-2 in the cheekpieces, nicely on top late on at Windsor and Kempton (1m4f); two 5lb rises asks a question of him but something seems to have clicked.

5/1

Form: 31011-

Last run: 246 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
A heavy defeat over hurdles five weeks ago was his only race since October; however, he won three of his four starts once equipped with this headgear on Flat last July-October; the furthest of those wins was 1m5f and he was well beaten trying 1m6f, but it may be rash to dismiss him as a stayer, given he's brother to Magellan Strait who won the 2023 Irish Cesarewitch (2m1f) and half-brother to Lagostovegas who won this race in 2018.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

5

(16)

27th Jul 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Glenroyal

11st 10lb

J: Mr H C Swan

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

In rear in the Ascot Stakes after a moderate run over hurdles; breakthrough win was over 1m4f at last year's festival; showed good form on soft ground in the autumn, winning twice, including over 1m5f.

16/1

19th

15

(1)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Glenroyal

9st 4lb

J: Declan McDonogh

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

A heavy defeat over hurdles five weeks ago was his only race since October; however, he won three of his four starts once equipped with this headgear on Flat last July-October; the furthest of those wins was 1m5f and he was well beaten trying 1m6f, but it may be rash to dismiss him as a stayer, given he's brother to Magellan Strait who won the 2023 Irish Cesarewitch (2m1f) and half-brother to Lagostovegas who won this race in 2018.

14/1

7th

8

11th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 50y

17:05 Killarney

Glenroyal

11st 4lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Progressive Flat handicapper last year at up to 1m5f, winning three races and now rated 93; half-sister Lagostovegas was useful 2m-2m2f hurdle winner and two other siblings successful in this discipline; seven months off.

2/1

9/4

Form: 10/29- BF

Last run: 364 days

W: 9st 6lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Dam is Ascot Gold Cup winner Estimate; inconsistent for Sir Michael Stoute in 2024; beaten on the nod at Leopardstown (1m4f) last May on debut for new yard, after which he was all the rage for this race but it was a nightmare for favourite backers, as he was shuffled back (from stall 1) and towards the rear entering straight before running on nicely until denied any room again in the last half furlong; absent since but same mark today and he is surely capable of significantly better; granted better luck, he should have a big shout.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20th

4

(8)

16th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Reaching High

9st 6lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: W P Mullins

Dam is Ascot Gold Cup winner Estimate; inconsistent for Sir Michael Stoute in 2024; beaten on the nod at Leopardstown (1m4f) last May on debut for new yard, after which he was all the rage for this race but it was a nightmare for favourite backers, as he was shuffled back (from stall 1) and towards the rear entering straight before running on nicely until denied any room again in the last half furlong; absent since but same mark today and he is surely capable of significantly better; granted better luck, he should have a big shout.

9/4

9th

15

(1)

17th Jun 2025

Good

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

17:00 Ascot

Reaching High

9st 5lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: W P Mullins

Dam is Ascot Gold Cup winner Estimate; inconsistent for Sir Michael Stoute last term, best efforts when second on good to firm in June and drubbing his opponents over 1m6f on AW in August; tailed off in the Melrose at York (6-1) final 3yo outing but made a bright start for new yard when beaten on the nod at Leopardstown (1m4f) last month; needs improvement but there is a great deal to suggest he arrives here with major potential as a stayer.

7/2

1

(1)

16th May 2025

Good

1m 4f 0y

20:30 Leopardstown

Reaching High

10st 12lb

J: Miss J Townend

T: W P Mullins

Wide margin AW winner at Wolverhampton (1m6f) off 81 for Michael Stoute last August and 11lb higher now; best turf effort a 0.5l second of 6 at Windsor (11.5f, gd-fm); lacks a run but respected on debut for Willie Mullins.

11/2

14 (4)
Ismahane

25/1

Form: 42322-

Last run: 206 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 93

Form & Verdict
Officially unraced on firmer than good; trained last year in Germany, including when runner-up in Group 3 Italian St Leger (1m7f, heavy) before changing hands for 72,000euros; well held when taking minor honours over hurdles (January and May) in her two runs for new yard, but cheekpieces (tried once last year) return and getting back to the Flat may suit.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 0-1370

Last run: 54 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 91

Form & Verdict
4-22 in France, including two 2m wins and latest came with a very late bid in January (AW); peak efforts (not his last two) give him a form chance on this first start since changing hands and leaving Andre Fabre.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 321-01

Last run: 35 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 92

Form & Verdict
French 1m6f winner who tried hurdling for new yard last winter; tailed off in the heavy-ground handicap won by Mordor on return to Flat but dictated the pace and kept his challengers at bay in a six-runner conditions event at Killarney (1m6f, good; Tim Toe third and Defiantly fourth) five weeks ago; improvement is needed but he's still something of an unknown quantity.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £813.70
Straight Forecast £555.06
Tricast £5405.97
Trifecta £11209.80

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Reaching High

POSTDATA:

Mordor

RP RATINGS:

Bahadur

Telegraph:

Tim Toe

Daily Mail:

Puturhandstogether

The Guardian:

Galileo Dame

TOPSPEED:

Barnso

Daily Mirror:

Westminster Moon

The Times:

Reaching High

D Express:

Reaching High

The Sun:

Reaching High

The Star:

Reaching High

Daily Record:

Mordor