Staff Writer |
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Running Lion is positioning herself for a memorable defence of the Duke of Cambridge Stakes crown, with John and Thady Gosden's mare facing up to nine rivals in the Group Two contest at Royal Ascot.
The daughter of Roaring Lion delivered an emphatic performance in last year's renewal before capping her campaign with a runner-up finish behind stablemate Friendly Soul in the Prix de l'Opera. While not quite scaling those heights this term, her recent Listed runner-up effort at Haydock suggests she is finding her stride at the right moment.
The Gosden stable could field a strong hand with Crimson Advocate and Rainbows Edge also among the entries. Rainbows Edge particularly catches the eye after winning a handicap at the venue in the royal colours, with Ryan Moore seemingly earmarked for the ride.
Charlie Appleby's Cinderella's Dream brings compelling form after her dominant Dahlia Stakes victory at Newmarket, while George Boughey relies on the high-class Soprano. The latter captured the Sandringham at Royal Ascot and returns following Listed success.
Zelaina heads 29 juvenile fillies targeting the opening Queen Mary Stakes. The US$812,500 breeze-up purchase made an immediate impact on her Nottingham debut and represents Wathnan Racing's ambitions in the Group Two sprint.
Patrick Biancone's American raider Lennilu features among the once-raced winners, alongside Ralph Beckett's course specialist Society Kiss and George Scott's impressive Staya.
Beckett's Amiloc Seeks Vase Glory
Beckett's unbeaten Amiloc spearheads 20 Queen's Vase entries, having maintained his perfect record through four starts including the Listed Cocked Hat Stakes at Goodwood.
Roger Varian's My Cloud emerges among 72 remaining Royal Hunt Cup contenders for the competitive handicap, while 31 and 50 entries respectively stand for the Kensington Palace and Windsor Castle Stakes.