Highfield Princess. And not using a shadow of a doubt the story of the 2022 flat season.
Nevertheless, earlier than a return to successful methods within the Qatar Stakes at Goodwood earlier this month, the story of the turf for this time period had not been as glowing.
That isn’t to say the performances haven’t been there, in a season, with extra unpredictable floor than that of the typical Christopher Nolan screenplay.
Returning to the Knavesmire this week to defend her Coolmore Wooton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes crown, the French mare can change into solely the third horse to retain for the reason that flip of the millennium.
Not solely that, however as a runner-up to 33/1 shot Bradsell within the Kings Stand, this week, the Princess has the prospect for revenge.
A Royal turn-up
Throughout a Royal Ascot that threw up many a huge-price winner in June, Bradsell’s gorgeous win on the Royal Assembly was solely second in sensation to Khaadem’s 80/1 Jubilee Stakes heroics.
All three are current right here; Highfield Princess was bridesmaid in each.
🌟 @HollieDoyle1 is on the board at #RoyalAscot 2023! Bradsell wins the King’s Stand! #RoyalAscot pic.twitter.com/DaveGbhEEr
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) June 20, 2023
A 3rd Ebor Pageant for the favored 6yo, the Nunthorpe represents the prospect for a measure of retribution.
Bradsell will likely be considerably shorter right here and the early antepost has a literal two-horse race on the playing cards.
Or not less than, it did.
Evs higher than Evens
A late entry after being supplemented, Large Evs may throw a serious spanner within the works.
The plucky 2yo colt of Mick Appleby has burst onto the scene up to now few months.
After successful a Listed contest, he then received a primary Group race final day out, claiming the Molecomb at Wonderful Goodwood earlier this month.
Nevertheless, that is the large step-up.
His Windsor Fort Stakes 20/1 glory at Royal Ascot was an emotional event for connections.
A horse named in reminiscence of shut good friend Paul Evans who handed away final yr, ‘Large Evs’ was an everyday with Appleby and co. at racecourses across the nation.
Over a 5f sprint and in stronger firm, Large Evs’ 6/1 value appears fascinating, however can he problem?
Khaadem lurks; classic Fantastic Wine?
As documented, Khaadem provides a bit of little bit of spice to proceedings within the Nunthorpe.
Apparently, Charlie Hills’ relative 7yo veteran was fourth to Highfield Princess on this very contest 12 months again.
Of additional intrigue, Jamie Spencer jumps again within the saddle; the jockey is one among solely seven to have notched a win with Khaadem since final yr’s Ebor Pageant – the Jubilee Stakes.
Earlier than the journey to the Knavesmire final yr, Khaadem received the King George Qatar Stakes and the Palace Home at Newmarket.
Each had been on both good or good to mushy floor. All factors are price consideration.
On the very backside of the betting, Scott Dixon’s Fantastic Wine has been dismissed out of hand having gone over a yr and not using a win on turf.
His final win nevertheless, was at York over each course and distance. Is 33/1 price an e/w punt?
