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| Staff Writer |
The Queen Mary Stakes attracts a bumper field of 25 runners in the Group Two sprint for 2YO fillies over five furlongs, with American-trained fillies having claimed five of the last dozen renewals in this increasingly global contest.
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Zelaina emerges as the headline act for Karl Burke, who is seeking a third victory in this race within four years following previous successes. The Wathnan Racing-owned daughter of Mehmas has been generating significant buzz throughout the build-up, having impressed in winning the same Nottingham maiden that produced last year's winner. Burke's exceptional record with juveniles this season, combined with James
Doyle's retained ride, makes her the standout selection.
Lennilu represents a formidable American challenge for veteran trainer Patrick Biancone, whose illustrious CV includes Arc success with Sagace in 1984. The filly's impressive victory in the win-and-you're-in Royal Palm Juvenile Fillies Stakes at Gulfstream Park demonstrates the class that has made US raiders so successful in this contest.
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True Love adds further intrigue to the international contingent, while Society Kiss brings solid domestic form under Hector Crouch. Shine On Me provides additional Wathnan Racing representation with James McDonald aboard, the Australian champion jockey making his Royal Ascot debut.
Cardiff By The Sea represents Oisin Murphy's hopes in this competitive affair, while Justice Twice gives Hollie Doyle an excellent opportunity aboard what appears a progressive type. The depth of quality extends throughout the field, with Eternal Solace, Social Exclusion, and Flowerhead all carrying legitimate claims in what promises to be a thrilling opener to the meeting.