Hugo Palmer Ascot Day One runners blog: 'He's won at Ascot before and is in great shape'

Hugo Palmer has one runner on the first day of Royal Ascot on Tuesday, 16 June, 2026. The Coral ambassador previews his horse, Adaay of Scarlett, in his latest exclusive blog.

• Adaay Of Scarlett - Ascot - 3.05 race odds

Ascot 3.05 – Adaay Of Scarlett

We’re stepping Adaay Of Scarlett up in trip to six furlongs, having done his racing solely over five until this point, his stride would suggest he needs this extra furlong, although we’re fully aware he will need to improve quite a lot for that step up in trip to have a winning chance here, his odds reflect that also.

That said, I feel he’s probably drawn on the right side, in stall 15, certainly for the start of the meeting I hope the stands side is where he wants to be, and he’s a tough, game horse who tries hard.  He’s also won at Ascot before, and will love the quick ground.  He’s in really good shape, he’s got more experience than plenty of his rivals, and I feel he goes there with a sensible chance.  If he enjoys the step up in trip you never know.