BRAZEN Beau is one of two runners for Australia in the $1 million Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot on Sunday morning, 1:20am AEST.
The Chris Waller-trained colt has been the favourite throughout the betting, but it eased slightly after drawing barrier 15.
The three-year-old flew from Australian after winning at Flemington by 2.8 lengths at Group 1 level where it demonstrated the turn-of-foot needed to cope with the Royal Ascot track.
Brazen Beau ($3.50 at Sportsbet.com.au) is Waller’s first Ascot runner and he knows this will be a step up despite dominating at Group 1 level in Australia.
“The 14 Group 1’s have been good, every one is, but this is another level again,” Waller said.
“In terms of experience for me, it’s a new level.
“There is so much heritage and history.”
Australian Group 1 sprinters have fared well in the past at Ascot with past winners including Choisir, Takeover Target, Miss Andretti, Scenic Blast, Starspangledbanner and Black Caviar.
Waller is pleased with Brazen Beau’s work since arriving in England.
“The horse is exactly where we want him to be,” Waller said.
“He has put on weight… and hence for the reason for stepping up [his work]. We are very happy.”
Brazen Beau is set for stud duties following the Diamond Jubilee, much like the Gai Waterhouse-trained Wandjina which stands as a $10 chance with bookmakers.
“It is likely to be his last run and what better way to go out than winning in front of the Queen,” hoped Waterhouse.
“He seems like the right horse to deal with the track. He has stamina and speed.
“He has pleased me and just being here has lifted his profile according to Henry Field from Newgate Farm.”
Wandjina won the Australian Guineas before losing out to Dissident in the All Aged Stakes at Randwick during The Championships, and Waterhouse is confident Wandjina has the toughness to win at Royal Ascot.
“He is tough,” Waterhouse said. “You saw that last start and that’s what you need at Ascot.
“He is such a lovely free-going colt and his coat is gleaming. He has done a treat since coming over here.
“He is going to give a big sight.”
2015 Diamond Jubilee Stakes field and odds
1. Ansgar – $31
2. Astaire – $26
3. Brazen Beau – $3.50
4. Caspar Netscher – $31
5. Due Diligence – $9
6. Glass Office – $21
7. Gordon Lord Byron – $18 at CrownBet.com.au
8. Moviesta – $16
9. Music Master – $21
10. Mustajeeb – $5.50
11. Pearl Secret – $14
12. Tropics – $12
13. Undrafted – $12
14. Wandjina – $10
15. Lucky Kristale – $26