No excuses could be offered for the dismal performance of Animal Kingdom in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot, he was simply outclassed and only managed to beat two tired horses over the line.

The even money favourite was on the outside, appearing to be travelling well until reaching the half way stage of the race, he gave one flicker of hope then the light faded soon after.

Whether he is strictly a dirt horse may never be known, as most likely he will never race again, that would have to be his swansong if he is going to stand as a sire at Arrowfield this season.

In hindsight one may ask, did he have anything to prove by going to Royal Ascot? Everything seemed to have been set in stone long before his latest race.

Shamexpress Outclassed

Shamexpress’s performance in the King Stand Stakes was almost a replica of Animal Kingdom’s earlier run, there was a shade of light for a while but it faded out at the business end of the assignment.

He appeared to jump well from the gate, settling down among the first half dozen horses on the far side of the track, his white blaze was prominent.

There was a glimmer of hope for a fleeting moment, however, it was short lived, he gave little thereafter finally finishing well back in the field.

There is nothing now for Shamexpress, the spring is out for him, he may be looking for back to back Newmarket Handicaps in the autumn.

Dawn Approach Wins In A Thriller

Dawn Approach rehabilitated himself in what was a slogging finish with Toronado, in winning the St James’s Stakes at Royal Ascot.

He virtually gave up in the Derby, the trip certainly didn’t suit him, he failed to stay, after leading he finished well back in the field near last.

Punters are a forgiving breed, they sent him out favourite again this time, he was almost out of business when another runner almost brought him down, Kevin Manning was lucky to retain his seat in the saddle.