2015 Royal Ascot news round-up: Moore to partner top Aussie sprinter

Australian trainer Robert Smerdon has secured the services of Ryan Moore to partner Shamal Wind in the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot, and Coral make the mare an 8/1 chance to land the 5f contest on Tuesday, June 16th.

Shamal is a Group 1 winner in her homeland, having claimed the Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield in February, and after arriving in England last week has been based in Newmarket.

Smeerdon said: “It looks like Ryan is going to be riding her, so we are delighted with that news and I’m sure he’ll do a great job.

“She’s in very good form and all the reports since she arrived in England have been very positive.”

Shamal Wind will attempt to follow in the footsteps of compatriots Takeover Target, Miss Andretti, Scenic Blast and Choisir by winning the Group 1 contest on the opening day of the big meeting.

Simenon on course for Gold Cup
Simenon is on course for a third tilt at the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot on delighting top Irish trainer Willie Mullins on his recent return to action at Sandown.

The seven-year-old was beaten just a neck by Estimate in the 2m 4f contest two years ago and ran another creditable race when passing the post fifth, later promoted to fourth, 12 months ago.

Simenon was sidelined by injury after winning over hurdles at Tipperary last July, but shaped with plenty of promise under tender handling when a close fifth in the Henry II Stakes at the end of last month.

Mullins said: “I’m very happy with him and we’re just concentrating on getting him ready for the Gold Cup now. Dry ground would be suitable for him.”

Simenon, who won twice in a week at Royal Ascot three years ago, is 20/1 with Coral for the Group 1 feature contest on Thursday, June 18th.