A soggy Wednesday afternoon at Royal Ascot did at least end on a dry note, and Clerk of the Course Chris Stickels is hopeful that the worst weather has been and gone.
He said: “We had 10mm of rain up until 4pm, but the track is taking it well. The straight track does drain very well, and we’re hoping that we’ve seen the last of the heavy rain, and it will now soak through the turf and start to dry.
“Tonight we will be removing the false rail that runs from nine furlongs out to the home straight. That will provide some fresh ground on the inner of the round course for the next three days.
“At present the weather forecast suggests the weather will be generally dry for the rest of the meeting, although there is always a chance of an isolated shower.”
Frankie Dettori arrives on course on Day 2
Wednesday’s highlight at Royal Ascot, the £750,000 G1 Prince Of Wales’s Stakes, was won by the Frankie Dettori-ridden Crystal Ocean, trained by Sir Michael Stoute for Sir Evelyn de Rothschild.
Reflecting on a memorable race, Stickels said: “I was very pleased for the connections of the horse that he has now added a Group One victory to a fine record. Once again he proved he was tough and is a top performer at Ascot.
“Any winner for Frankie Dettori at Royal Ascot is well received, and having won the opening race too [the G2 Queen Mary Stakes on Raffle Prize], it seemed he thoroughly enjoyed his day.”
