Berkshire Sundance for Ascot finale
The final race of Royal Ascot 2026 is the Queen Alexandra Stakes (6.10pm), a marathon run over two miles and five and a half furlongs. It’s the longest race of the week, and it demands a horse with serious stamina.
In recent years, jumps trainers have dominated this race.
Willie Mullins has won three of the last five renewals. His horse, Le Destrier, is the favorite after finishing a close third to none other than Gold Cup hero Scandinavia at Leopardstown. That form is hard to argue with.
Related: Hult Introduces AI Lab for Graduate Students
But not everyone is convinced the market leader is the best bet. Some punters are looking for a bigger price, and one name keeps coming up: Berkshire Sundance.
Berkshire Sundance’s stamina could be the key
Andrew Balding’s six-year-old has already won four times over two miles.
In the Chester Cup last time out, over two miles and two furlongs, he finished sixth but didn’t look like he was stopping. He’s a stout stayer, and the extra distance could unlock more improvement.
It has won seven of its 17 career starts. That’s a solid record for a horse stepping up to this extreme trip. Balding has won the Queen Alexandra Stakes twice before, so he knows what it takes. Some observers note that the horse has yet to prove himself at this distance, but his running style suggests he’ll appreciate every yard.
Related: July inspired moissanite engagement rings
Earlier races offer value too
Before the finale, the Golden Gates Stakes (5.35pm) features two interesting contenders. Spyce is being offered at odds more than three times that of the market leaders, despite finishing not far behind Lost Boys and Sahara King in the London Gold Cup at Newbury last month.
Last season, Spyce was good enough to run in Group company after winning his maiden at the second attempt. He finished fourth and fifth in two Group Three races — not a disgrace. Alan King’s horses are in fine form, including a winner at Ascot on Tuesday, so that bodes well.
Princling is another horse to watch in the same race.
He ran a decent race in the competitive Silver Bowl handicap over a mile at Carlisle, getting outpaced before sticking on for fourth. The step up to 10 furlongs looks sure to suit him.
Related: Growth Prospects in The Tech Industry
One thing to keep in mind: betting tips are never guarantees.
Racing is unpredictable, and even the most likely winners can fall short on the day. A small tangent: Royal Ascot has seen its share of longshot winners in the Queen Alexandra. In 2019, a 33-1 shot took the prize, reminding everyone that stamina tests can produce surprises.
For those placing bets on Saturday, the World Pool Win and Place markets are available for all three selections mentioned. But as always, bet responsibly.
