Royal Ascot - Day 1

 A look at a few horses which have registered no the radar on the Scottish circuit and now take on the best at Ascot.

3.05 5f King's Stand Stakes

Consistent HAMISH MCGONAGALL, awarded a race at Musselburgh in early season, looks held by a few in this Group 1 event. His Group 2 third at Chantilly however does suggest he could pitch for prize money.
TANGERINE TREES, seen mopping up minor handicaps at Hamilton three years ago, has left that territory far behind, reaching a pinnacle when winning last season's Prix De l'Abbaye. His race at Haydock will have brought him on and it would be no surprise to see this one placed at a decent price.

3.40 1m St. James's Palace Stakes(3yo)

GABRIAL was seventh in what is turning out to be a very strong 0-100 handicap at Musselburgh in early April. This company is a huge ask for Richard Fahey's colt, but a prominent run may help confirm Musselburgh form
FOXTROT ROMEO has only won what appeared a weak maiden at Hamilton last August, victory coming on debut last year. however, he's left that form way behind and was second in the Irish 2,000 Guineas last time. He was length behind Power on that occasion, and my gut instinct is that form will be repeated. However, that form looks as good as any brought into this race and a place is a strong possibility if running to the same level.

5.35 5f Windsor Castle Stakes 2yo

Two colts who emerged from early season Musselburgh maidens appear in what looks an open contest.

HOTOTO has progressed nicely after showing promise when a fast finishing third in East Lothian. He ran into a decent performer in Cay Verde when he last ran at Ascot then just held Jillnextdoor in a tight finish at Ayr. He has ability but this contest may stretch him.
POLSKI MAX was third to Storm Moon at Musselburgh opening meeting, and has progressed steadily since, making all on Fibresand at Southwell. He's well built for a two-year-old and looked well forward for a youngster in early season, so I expect a few might improve past him here.