Saturday Racing Tips at Ascot - Dan James Racing

Flowerhead steps into the Group 3 Princess Margaret Stakes at Ascot’s 1:40 pm slot as a strong and intriguing contender. Fresh from a sensational second-place finish in the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot—where she went off at 100/1—she showcased strong early pace and staying power over five furlongs.

That close-up run marks her as potentially well-suited to the six-furlong trip here. Timeform analysts highlight Flowerhead as “just about the most persuasive option” in an open-looking sprint for juvenile fillies, noting her proven Ascot ability and undoubted potential over the extra furlong.

With the ground expected to be good to firm and an attractive weight of 9st 2lb, the step up in distance could unlock improved performance from this lightly raced newcomer. A bold showing may not only deliver a shock but also raise serious questions about her classic credentials later in the season.

Kalpana lines up as one of the key contenders in Saturday’s £1.5 million King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot and is expected to make a serious impact. Trained by Andrew Balding and partnered by top jockey Oisin Murphy, Kalpana has already proven herself at this level with a Group 1 victory at Ascot last season.

This progressive filly has returned in fine form, winning impressively on seasonal debut and showing maturity and tactical speed. Her ability to handle the unique demands of Ascot, combined with her proven class, gives her a strong edge in what is one of the most prestigious races on the British flat racing calendar.

With the ground likely to suit and a strong gallop expected, Kalpana should get the race run to her liking. If she builds on her previous efforts, she could be tough to beat in a deep but winnable renewal.

One of the day’s most competitive races, the Moët & Chandon International Handicap at Ascot, features a standout contender in Classic. Trained by Richard Hannon, Classic has shown marked improvement this season, most notably when winning stylishly at Sandown under top-weight. That performance, combined with a 2lb rise, leaves him well-treated against rivals in Saturday’s high-stakes handicap.

Punters will take confidence from the return of jockey Sean Levey, who has forged a strong partnership with the gelding. The stiff seven furlongs at Ascot should play to Classic’s strengths, especially with a likely strong pace to aim at.

Well-supported in early markets and identified by leading tipsters as a potential group-class handicapper, Classic looks set to mount a serious challenge. If he can replicate his Sandown finish, he could be tough to hold off late. Backers seeking form and upward trajectory may find no better bet on the card.