Ascot preview: 16:05 Merriebelle Stable Pavillion Stakes

One of the more positive changes to the calendar is the revamp of the three year old sprinting programme with more races being added including the Group One Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot. This race has attracted a quality field headed by the unbeaten Limato (11/8), who has looked a sprinter who could potentially be a superstar with the ease in which he goes about his business.

His backers have had no worries in any of his four starts, especially his final one in the Two Year Trophy at Redcar where he never came off the bridle. The one worry tomorrow is that trainer Henry Candy has been low key on the horse saying that he has yet to come to hand but is hoping he comes alive when returning to the racecourse. That, and the threat of rain is enough to make him opposable but he could easily confirm the promise shown last year.

Rain is also a concern for Tendu (5/1) with her fast ground pedigree but she looks an exciting filly going forward whilst Strath Burn will appreciate any rain that falls. One horse that looks interesting tomorrow is Hawkesbury, who can only be described as a character but was gelded at the end of last season which looked to help his wayward temperament at Kempton when winning a conditions event in January. Ground shouldn’t be an issue for the son of Shamardal and he can progress into a smart prospect.

Of the rest, Beacon should appreciate six furlongs having been lucky to win the Flying Childers at Doncaster after Cotai Glory ducked out and unseated George Baker in the shadows of the winning post whilst Adaay looked smart before the Coventry last season before running below par twice. He is another that won’t appreciate rain.