Royal Ascot Racing Tips: Bay Bridge looks rock solid

NAP: Bay Bridge has more improvement in him

Bay Bridge - 15:40 Royal Ascot

Bay Bridge has been brought along gradually by Sir Michael Stoute - like so many before him - not racing above listed level last season, but he still managed to win all four of his starts, progressing each time.

He looked to have done very well physically in the paddock before his return in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown three weeks ago and could hardly have won more impressively, showing a smart turn of foot in the straight and stretching five lengths clear of the favourite in second. That looks strong form and he looks a colt right out of the top drawer, one who is expected to take the step up into Group 1 company in his stride.

NEXT BEST: Eldar Eldarov has plenty more to offer

Eldar Eldarov - 15:05 Royal Ascot

Eldar Eldarov cost £480,000 at the Breeze-Ups last year and made an impressive winning debut at Nottingham on his sole start last season.

He followed up on his return from seven months off over a mile and a quarter at Newcastle last time in equally taking fashion under a penalty and he looks a colt to keep on the right side. That looked a strong novice event beforehand and the form is already starting to work out, producing three next-time-out winners, and Eldar Eldarov was well on top at the finish. He steps up four furlongs in trip now, but there is stamina in his pedigree, so he should stay, and he remains open to any amount of improvement.

EACH-WAY: Dark Shift well handicapped under a penalty

Dark Shift - 17:00 Royal Ascot

Another typically competitive renewal of the Royal Hunt Cup where you can make a case for plenty, but Dark Shift could hardly have won any easier at Nottingham last time and looks the one to side with.

At first glance, it looks like he was disappointing in the Victoria Cup on his return, but he can have a line put through that run as he was on the opposite side to where the race unfolded, and he has plenty of winning form at Ascot. He is drawn in the middle, which should allow his jockey to choose where he wants to go, and he looks well treated under a 5 lb penalty. Granted luck in-running, Dark Shift ought to go very close.