Four for Royal Ascot: Leonna Mayor's Expert Picks
Leonna Mayor, a renowned Sky Sports Racing presenter, offers her insightful predictions for the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting. Her selections showcase a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of the sport.
SEET: Sandringham Stakes
Leonna's top pick is SEET, a half-sister to the renowned Kalpana, who has a proven affinity for Ascot. With a recent victory over a mile at Doncaster, SEET's trainer, John Gosden, believes a stiff mile at Royal Ascot will further enhance her development. The presence of Ryan Moore MBE in the saddle adds to the confidence, although Jim Crowley's recovery from his injury is still ongoing.
ROYAL HERITAGE: Coventry Stakes
In the Coventry Stakes, ROYAL HERITAGE stands out as a formidable contender. Bred by the renowned Blue Point, this horse has impressed with its performance in various stats engines. With a likely future distance of 7f, the current 6f race suits it perfectly. James Doyle's decision to ride ROYAL HERITAGE is a strategic move, given the horse's decisive win at Hamilton last week. The involvement of Wathnan Racing, a consistent force at Ascot, further strengthens the horse's prospects.
OPERA BALLO: Queen Anne Stakes
OPERA BALLO, an improving four-year-old, has been a work in progress, much like its sire, Ghaiyyath. However, a recent drop in trip at Sandown allowed it to relax and showcase its true potential. With connections expressing satisfaction with its growth, OPERA BALLO is poised for a strong showing in the Queen Anne Stakes. The horse's ability to settle and improve makes it a compelling choice for the race.
BLUE BROTHER: Royal Hunt Cup
BLUE BROTHER, another Wathnan Racing entry, is a strong contender in the Royal Hunt Cup. James Doyle's decision to ride the five-year-old is intriguing, especially considering the presence of stablemate Archivist, who is set to be ridden by James McDonald. BLUE BROTHER's previous performance, despite a trip at the gates, suggests a fresh and focused approach post-gelding. The horse's target-oriented training regimen has kept it in top shape, making it a favorite for the race.
Leonna's selections for Royal Ascot demonstrate a meticulous approach, considering factors like breeding, recent form, and jockey choices. Her insights provide a valuable guide for enthusiasts and bettors alike, offering a unique perspective on the meeting's potential stars.