Royal Ascot Racing News: Timeform Experts Reveal Day 5 Fancies and Top-Rated Horses
As the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting enters its fifth day, the expert analysts at Timeform have shared their top selections and insights on the day’s races.
Bedtime Story: A Frankel Filly with Nunthorpe Pedigree
David Johnson of Timeform has highlighted BEDTIME STORY as his best bet in the 14:30 race at Royal Ascot. The Aidan O’Brien-trained filly made an impressive winning debut at Leopardstown, and her closing sectional time suggests she may have plenty more to offer. Being by the legendary sire Frankel and out of dual Nunthorpe winner Mecca’s Angel, Bedtime Story’s pedigree is simply elite, and Timeform believes she has a strong chance of enhancing her stable’s excellent recent record in this race.
Middle Earth Poised for Improvement
Rory King has tipped MIDDLE EARTH as the one to watch in the 15:05 contest. Last year’s St Leger form puts him at a disadvantage against the likes of Continuous and Desert Hero, but King believes the extra emphasis on speed could play to Middle Earth’s strengths. Having won his last four races, including an impressive display at Newbury last month, Middle Earth could be a much-improved horse this season and may just have the gears to upset some of his more fancied rivals.
Haatem to Outshine River Tiber in Jersey Stakes
Graeme North is siding with HAATEM in the 16:25 Jersey Stakes. Though he may play second fiddle to stablemate Rosallion, Haatem has proven himself to be a high-class performer, finishing ahead of the reopposing River Tiber in the Irish 2000 Guineas. With the drop back to seven furlongs potentially suiting him, North believes Haatem can get the better of his rival and provide another winner for the in-form Richard Hannon stable.
Dawn Rising Looks to Repeat Last Year’s Success
Kieran Clark has saved his nap of the week for the final race of the day, the 18:15 contest, where he is backing DAWN RISING to repeat his triumph from 12 months ago. Though the horse hasn’t quite hit the heights of last season in his two outings so far, Clark expects him to thrive over the marathon distance and is encouraged by the booking of William Buick, which he sees as an eye-catching jockey engagement.
Tashkhan Tops the Timeform Ratings
In terms of Timeform Ratings, TASHKHAN stands out as the top-rated horse in the 18:15 race. Despite questions surrounding his fitness and preference for softer ground, Tashkhan’s impressive form last season, including a narrow defeat in the Cesarewitch, suggests he could be a force to be reckoned with on his reappearance. Timeform’s weight-adjusted ratings have him 7 lb clear of his rivals, making him a leading contender in this competitive contest.
With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, the Timeform team has provided valuable insights for Royal Ascot punters to consider on the fifth day of this prestigious racing festival.
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