The rapidly improving Al Khawaneej looks to be ahead of the handicapper and makes plenty of appeal at 8/1 in the 5.00 at Royal Ascot.
The form of David Simcock’s strapping colt has taken off since being sent handicapping, scoring at Kempton and Wolverhampton off marks of 65 and 79 before completing the hat-trick at Goodwood off 85.
He seems to be improving as he is stepped up in trip, and today’s marathon 2m 4f could be right up his street judged on his latest effort.
The son of Arch stayed on powerfully to beat Pascha Bere over 2m at Goodwood by 1 1/4 lengths and scored with more in hand than the winning margin suggests.
He was certainly not stopping at the line, and looks capable of defying a 5lb rise now upped in grade.
To me he definitely looks on to keep on the right side, and he certainly has the most progressive profile in the line-up with the vast majority of his rivals holding no secrets from the handicapper and weighted up to their best.
With Jamie Spencer, who partnered him to his first two victories, back in the saddle everything looks in place for a huge run and he looks sure to take the world of beating.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts each-way Al Khawaneej (8/1 generally available – use BOG firms)