The Ascot Stakes is often won by a horse specifically aimed at the race, and Reaching High fits that profile perfectly after an agonisingly unlucky passage in last year’s renewal. Willie Mullins has an excellent record in these staying handicaps and Ryan Moore is an eye-catching booking.
Joseph O’Brien appears to hold multiple cards. Puturhandstogether looks the strongest on established handicap form, while Galileo Dame, Westminster Moon, Kizlyar and Glenroyal all possess varying degrees of untapped potential.
The pace forecast is key. If they crawl early, tactical speed could matter more than stamina. If the tempo lifts from halfway, proven marathon performers such as Reaching High, Puturhandstogether and Galileo Dame should come firmly into the picture.
Final Conclusions
Most Likely Winner: Reaching High
Best Each-Way: Galileo Dame
Best Value: Westminster Moon
Best Irish Handicap Profile: Puturhandstogether
Dark Horse: Tim Toe
Provisional ranking:
Reaching High
Puturhandstogether
Galileo Dame
Westminster Moon
Tim Toe
Kizlyar
Comfort Zone
Beylerbeyi