Top-class racing, royal patronage, elegance, and the best of fashion are some things that come to mind when many hear of the Royal Ascot. One of the most prestigious events in Europe, the race is held in Ascot, Berkshire, England. The racecourse is renowned for its rich history and elegant setting, attracting horse racing enthusiasts and high-profile individuals from around the world. It usually takes place in June and spans over five days, and for 2023, the event is scheduled to run from June 20th to June 24th.
The Royal Ascot features various races. However, the event’s highlight is the Gold Cup, a gruelling two-and-a-half-mile race that tests the stamina and speed of the finest stayers in the sport. Royal Ascot has become a favourite among fans and punters with its long-standing tradition and high-class atmosphere. Bookmakers, including those where you can wager on horse racing betting sites not on gamstop, extensively cover the race, offering multiple betting options for each day. Here, we discuss everything about the event, including the top contestants and where you can place stakes.
What You Need To Know About The Event
Since its inception by Queen Anne in 1711, the annual race meeting has remained an exciting mix of tradition, fashion, class distinction, and sport and a prominent event on the British social calendar. It runs for five days, with the Opening day, also known as “Queen Anne Stakes Day,” being the most notable. The highlight race is the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes, a one-mile flat race for thoroughbreds aged four and older. This day sets the tone for the event with the royal procession, where carriages of royal family members enter the racecourse amidst great fanfare.
Wednesday features the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, a prestigious race over one mile and two furlongs. Day 3, famously called “Ladies’ Day,” is known for its emphasis on fashion and style. Spectators don their finest outfits and extravagant hats, competing in the fashion stakes. On this same day, the Group 1 Gold Cup, a challenging two-and-a-half-mile race, takes centre stage.
Day 4, known as “Commonwealth Cup Day,” is dedicated to showcasing the finest three-year-old sprinters, while the last day, “Diamond Jubilee Stakes Day,” concludes the Royal Ascot with a bang. The highlight race is the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, a prestigious sprint race over six furlongs.
The Racecourse
You can only discuss some things about the Royal Ascot races without mentioning the racecourse. Located in Ascot, Berkshire, England, the racecourse dates back to 1711, when the first Royal race was held. It features a right-handed galloping track measuring 14 furlongs with a run-in of two and a half furlongs. Its grandstands and enclosures provide a picturesque setting for spectators to witness thrilling races and soak in the electric atmosphere. Beyond the races, Royal Ascot offers various side attractions, including fine dining options, champagne bars, and exclusive hospitality packages.
Which Are The Top Contestants To Look Out For In The Ascot Gold Cup?
The Ascot Gold Cup is the leading showcase of the Royal Ascot event. Widely regarded as the ultimate test of stamina for stayers, this Group 1 race is run over 2 miles, 3 furlongs, and 210 yards. It’s open to horses that are at least four years old. The 2023 participants look impressive, with Eldar Eldarov and Coltrane battling for the top favourite position. Below is an overview of the Royal Ascot event’s top contestants.
Eldar Eldarov
Last year’s St. Leger winner, Eldar, is a strong contender for the Ascot Gold Cup. He came into the race in good form with a close second-place finish in the Yorkshire Cup. The main uncertainty is whether he can handle the distance, as his longest race was over 2 miles. However, 4-year-olds have recently succeeded, winning 8 out of the last 11 Gold Cups. Jockeyed by David Egan, Eldar Eldarov’s odds of winning are 4.50.
Coltrane
Coltrane has displayed remarkable progress since his career started. In his return this season, he effortlessly clinched a win in the Sagaro Stakes at Ascot in early May. This outstanding performance has elevated his status in the betting markets, positioning him as a strong contender for the upcoming race with odds of 4.50. Coltrane has proven his staying power, exhibits a fondness for the track, and, at the age of 6, is expected to be reaching the pinnacle of his abilities. His jockey is Oisin Murphy.
Emily Dickinson
Trained by the formidable Aidan O’Brien, known for his success in the Ascot Gold Cup with eight victories, Emily Dickinson emerges as the third on this list. This 4-year-old filly’s recent performances have indicated that she can run longer distances. The esteemed jockey Ryan Moore is expected to ride Emily Dickinson, further enhancing her chances and bringing her odds to 6.00. Moore has triumphed in the Ascot Gold Cup three times before, including last year’s victory with Kyprios.
Point Lonsdale
From the stables of A. P. O’Brien, Point Lonsdale, sits in fourth place with odds of 13.00. The 4-year-old has won six of his nine races, the last being the Class 1 Chester race in May 2023. Point Lonsdale’s impressive pedigree, combined with its ability to handle the demands of long-distance races, positions it as a strong competitor for the Gold Cup.
Bolshoi Ballet
Here is another contender trained by O’Brien. Though Bolshoi Ballet hasn’t bagged as many wins as Point Lonsdale and Emily Dickinson, the 5-year-old has performed impressively since the start of its career. It’s our last strong contender, with odds of 21.00. Despite being the latest on the list, there’s a good chance that the tides might turn during the race. If you know all about the 2022 Royal Ascot, you must have learned that Kyprios, the event’s champion, was not the top favourite but eventually won the Gold Cup.
Where To Place Your Bets For The Royal Ascot
When it comes to placing stakes on Royal Ascot, numerous betting sites are available to cater to the diverse preferences of punters. From well-established platforms to newer entrants, the options seem endless. However, non-GamStop betting sites are gaining traction. These platforms provide an alternative for those seeking fewer restrictions and more flexibility.
They operate independently of the UK’s Gamstop programme, allowing individuals to access their services even if they have previously self-excluded from UK gambling sites. Moreover, these sites accept cryptocurrencies, providing users with additional convenience and privacy. They provide enticing bonuses that are often better than those of traditional platforms.
Note that your bets’ outcome on these bookmakers depends entirely on luck and what happens in the race, but with a few Royal Ascot betting tips, you can make better-informed decisions. Most importantly, develop responsible gambling practices by setting and sticking to a budget.
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