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Thursday, June 21: Hayley Turner's Royal Ascot Picks

by Hayley Turner, GBI Racing

June 20, 2018

GBI Racing Ambassador and former leading jockey, Hayley Turner, gives her best bet on Thursday's Royal Ascot card.

Race 1 (9:30AM ET) – Norfolk Stakes (Group 2)
#1 Charming Kid (12/1)
This horse was green first time out but received a good education when winning at York. He was doing his best work at the end when the penny dropped. I don’t think this is a very strong race and he should be up to this level.

Race 2 (10:05AM ET) – Hampton Court Stakes (Group 3)
#15 Wadilsafa (10/1) 
He took a little while to settle over a mile at Newmarket last time out, but he's still learning and will improve from that. He picked up well that day and the extra trip will help.
 
Race 3 (10:40AM ET) – Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2)
#1 Wild Illusion (2/1)
There were no excuses when she was second in the Oaks but that was still a big run, and she was well clear of the third horse. She will take another step forward from that.

Race 4 (11:20AM ET) – Gold Cup (Group 1)
#9 Stradivarius (2/1) - best bet
He's an improving four-year-old and made a good start to the season. I would fancy Order Of St George if the ground was softer but it won’t be.