The latest renewal of the famous Ascot Gold Cup takes place at 4:15pm on Thursday.
Below, we look at the some of the top contenders for glory in one of the biggest races on the calendar. Of course, all the best horse racing odds are available to view on our online betting site, so do not miss out!
Written by Jake Wilkes
*All odds are subject to change
Scandinavia (13/8)
The ‘new kid on the block’ in the staying division and he is all the range for Ryan Moore and Aidan O’Brien, who have combined to win this race three times in the last 10 years. He won the Group 1 Goodwood Cup and St Leger in workmanlike fashion, giving the impression he is always leaving some ability in reserve. Has returned this season with short-odds victories at Navan and Leopardstown, and this step up in trip promises to unlock further improvement for a horse who has incredible potential.
Rahiebb (4/1)
Second in the St Leger behind Scandinavia last season, Rahiebb took a bit of time to develop into a top-class racehorse, but now comes into the Ascot Gold Cup with a strong chance. Another who tackles this marathon trip for the first time but was doing all his best work late on at Doncaster, which indicates he should get the trip. Looked better than ever on seasonal debut when winning at York, but is in deeper water here – and may find one or two too good.
Trawlerman (7/2)
Has not been seen for 243 days, but the legacy Trawlerman has cemented is undeniable. He won this contest last year, setting a ferocious pace from the front and running the finish out of his rivals. He was second a year before to the mighty Kyprios and brings the best form to the race. However, lack of race fitness – and him now being eight years old – present obvious question marks. My gut feeling tells me that without a recent run, this will be a task too great for Trawlerman but if any horse could defy the absence, it is him!
Al Riffa (17/2)
A specialist at the Curragh, with all four of his wins coming at the Irish track, including winning the Group 1 Irish St Leger back in September. That level of form gives him a chance, but he is yet to win away from Ireland, despite putting in good, placed efforts elsewhere. He was second in the Hardwicke Stakes last year behind Rebel’s Romance, but that was over an intermediate distance – and I don’t think he is crying out for an extra mile. He is one who could travel well for a while, but ultimately weaken out of it.
Sweet William (14/1)
A likeable stayer and one who could fill the places, but I feel this extreme test of stamina stretches Sweet William and sacrifices his win possibilities. All his best form has been over two miles, winning the Doncaster Cup twice and the Sagaro Stakes on seasonal re-appearance. He was third and fourth in this contest in previous years and would be a surprise winner, albeit he could present value in a market to finish in the top three or four.
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