Royal Ascot 2024: Archie Watson Sends Strong Team to Berkshire
As the racing world eagerly awaits the return of Royal Ascot, Upper Lambourn trainer Archie Watson is preparing to send his strongest-ever team to compete at flat racing’s premier event. After a sensational performance in 2023, where Watson secured three victories, including a prestigious Group 1 win with Bradsell, the 35-year-old is confident his stable has the depth and talent to make another magical week in Berkshire.
“It was unreal to have three winners at the meeting last year,” Watson reflected. “To have the Group 1 win with Bradsell, then to pick up two incredibly competitive handicaps with Rhythm N Hooves and Saint Lawrence was great. I think we will have around 17 runners this year, and I do believe this is the strongest team we have taken to Royal Ascot in terms of strength and depth.”
Among the stable’s leading contenders is Bradsell, who will be aiming to defend his crown in the newly-renamed King Charles III Stakes (previously the King’s Stand Stakes) on opening day. Watson is also bullish about the chances of several up-and-coming talents, including the likes of Electrolyte in the Coventry Stakes, Evade targeting the Commonwealth Cup or Jersey Stakes, and the promising filly Twafeeg, who could make a big impact in the Albany Stakes.
Other notable entries from the Watson yard include the consistent Brave Emperor in the Queen Anne Stakes, the progressive Albasheer and Saint Lawrence targeting the Wokingham Stakes, and the versatile Shartash, who will line up in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes.
“I’ve not had one like Brave Emperor that turns up every time and runs their race,” said Watson. “He is a fantastic horse to have around and he deserves to run in these Group 1s.”
With a well-balanced squad of sprinters, milers, and stayers, Watson is confident his team can deliver another memorable performance at the royal meeting.
“You go there hoping you have a few chances, so to walk away with three winners last year was unreal,” he added. “I know it sounds a strange thing to say, but you would be delighted walking away with one winner at Royal Ascot.”
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