The Kings Stand Stakes is a race that never lacks for international raiders, as proved last year when Hong Kongs Little Bridge emerged victorious, and this year is no different with leading South African sprinter
Shea Shea (2/1) favourite for the race. Im a big fan of Clive Coxs
Reckless Abandon (6/1) though and he ran a stormer last time out when arguably drawn on the wrong side in the Temple Stakes at Haydock. Reckless Abandon is a former Royal Ascot winner he landed the Norfolk Stakes last year and a multiple Group winner as a juvenile, hes got bags of speed and I think hell go close yet again. Reckless Abandon could have his work cut out for him though trying to live with Shea Shea. Mike de Kocks charge blitzed a high class international field in Dubai on World Cup night in the Al Quoz Sprint and afterwards Royal Ascot was immediately talked up as his next target. Hes plenty short enough in the betting now for such an ultra-competitive sprint where a bad break can literally end your chances in a matter of seconds but he looks a worthy favourite all things considered. Australians sprinters have a great record at Royal Ascot, thus this years major Aussie raider
Shamexpress (9/1) warrants a lot of respect, while Irelands
Sole Power (10/1) hardly ever runs a bad race and will surely be on the premises again having far from disgraced himself when fourth in the Temple Stakes last time out. Temple Stakes winner
Kingsgate Native (12/1) looked as good as ever in victory that day and itd be no surprise to see him defy his advancing years once again and the runner-up that day
Swiss Spirit (9/1) could be a major threat this time having made up a ton of ground at Haydock after breaking slowly. Shea Shea looks the one to be on though but at a short price and having never run in the UK before, Im tempted to go with the three-year-old Reckless Abandon at a price that still gives you a modest return on your stake were he to run a place if you back him each-way.
Selection: Reckless Abandon each-way @ 6/1 (Paddy Power, Bet365)
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