Queen Mary likely to offer the clues, but pace will be key in Hunt Cup

Since the Windsor Castle was moved from the last race on Tuesday last year, the chances of seeing a full-blooded cavalry charge on day one of Royal Ascot have been significantly reduced.

The result is something like what was seen on Tuesday, when races on the straight course played out largely down the centre of the track. It is likely to be different when 30 or so break from the stalls in the Royal Hunt Cup on Wednesday.

It is duly difficult to see where any bias may arise and if we are to get any clues in advance, they will likely come from the Queen Mary. Historical analysis is no real help, if anything it tends to give weight to the view that any bias on Ascot's straight track is primarily a function of pace.

It is that which is as great a concern for backers of New Graduate than the fact he is drawn right on the wing in stall one. The nearest potential pace setter is arguably Zhui Feng, the 2017 winner who is all the way across in stall 14.

There is much more in the way of pace in the middle and high-numbered stalls and they could hold the key, especially those adept on softer ground given the forecast rain.

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