The Hardwicke Stakes is perhaps not the most glamorous of the races at Royal Ascot, but this Group 2 race that is run over a mile and a half is always worth watching as it rarely disappoints. Last year’s victor Telescope is back to defend his crown, but with plenty of other runners in contention can he manage it? Read on as we bring you our predictions and betting tips and be sure to refer to the live betting odds comparison to make sure you get the best prices whoever you back.
Sir Michael Stoute’s Telescope is currently the 11/8 favourite for victory with Betway, which looks a decent enough price given the seven furlong margin of victory he managed in this race at last year’s Royal Ascot. But given that a runner aged five or older hasn’t won for seven years (Maraahel won in 2006 and 2007 aged five and six respectively), that price does just appear a little short to us.
Of the four-year-olds to qualify for this race this time around, Postponed – who hails from the Luca Cumani stable – could be the key challenger to the favourite. Priced at best betting odds of 5/1 with Betway, the colt’s three wins and two second place finishes from his 10 runs to date offer some encouragement.
However, it is John Gosden’s four-year-old Western Hymn who looks to us to offer the best value at betting odds of 8/1 with BetVictor. Back to back victories at Sandown this season have shown Western Hymn to be a solid competitor who has a heart of steel and who is able to deal with late pressure. He held off Arab Spring last time out and the aforementioned Postponed in April and though he will need to perform at his best to gain victory, odds of 8/1 are certainly worth grabbing.
Our main each way betting tip has to be Arab Spring who – as said – was narrowly beaten last time out but who – at monster odds of 20/1 with Paddy Power – looks a very good bet to get amongst the places in this year’s Hardwicke Stakes.