Royal Ascot’s Golden Gates often rewards progressive three-year-olds rather than established handicappers, and this year’s renewal looks no different.
The market revolves around Lost Boys and Sahara King, who pulled clear in the London Gold Cup. While Lost Boys got the verdict that day, today’s stronger pace may swing things toward Sahara King, whose finishing effort was arguably the most eye-catching.
The biggest danger to the Newbury form may be Harmonics, who arrives with the profile of a horse whose mark could underestimate him. Meanwhile Princling appeals as the type likely to improve significantly for Ascot’s stiff 10 furlongs.
With pace expected to be fierce and low draws reportedly disadvantaged, the race may be set up for closers rather than front-runners.
Final Ranking
Sahara King
Lost Boys
Harmonics
Princling
Bayaann
Betting View
Win: Sahara King
Each-way: Princling
Saver: Lost Boys
Notebook horse: Harmonics