Angus McNae's Racing UK Blog
	Thursday 16th June 2016

Architecture Can Build on Excellent Oaks Effort

Architecture ran a blinder in the Investec Oaks and a repetition of that will see her win the Ribblesdale Stakes this afternoon.

Her pedigree raised some doubts as to whether 12 furlongs would suit her at Epsom, but in a strongly run race she saw the trip out well and beat all bar Minding, with the third eight lengths back.

She travelled strongly and quickened in good style, only to be beaten by an exceptional filly. If she is none the worse for that effort she will be very tough to beat and at a quoted price of 3-1 at the time of writing she represents good value as well.

The King George V Stakes is as competitive as ever and I think it could pay to take a chance with Shraaoh.

He is lightly raced and completely unexposed. Last time out he won a maiden at Newcastle without coming off the bridle. Now up in trip he is a very interesting prospect. That his trainer Sir Michael Stoute sees fit to pitch him in this deep at this early stage of his career is a tip in itself and obviously having Frankie on board is a bonus.

Order of St George is a class act and will be hard to beat in the Gold Cup but even money is short enough and I would rather back Pallasator each way at 16-1.

He won the Henry II Stakes in ready style last time. His fourth in the Long Distance Cup at Ascot late last season proves that he handles the track and he was a bit unlucky that day.

I know he is a difficult customer, but I am convinced that he will stay the trip well, which is not something you can say of all of his rivals today. He looks sure to run well and I would recommend backing him each way.

Angus McNae’s Royal Ascot selections for Thursday

3.40 Royal Ascot: Architecture at a general 11- 4

4.20 Royal Ascot: Pallasator (each-way) at a general 16-1

5.35 Royal Ascot: Shraaoh at 6-1 with Ladbrokes