Watering Could Affect Straight Course Races Today At Ascot On Racing News this morning ATR tipster Matt Doyle controversially claimed that horses on the stand side today may possibly be disadvantaged by a slow track, caused by watering overnight on that side. The Pharaoh of the Form Book is concerned that horses drawn on the stand side in races on the straight course will today face an uphill battle to be in contention.Many punters who are looking to continue their success with horses on the stand side will view Doyle´s opinion with some scepticism, but after having walked the course first-hand Doyle stuck to his guns. Doyle stated, 'It [the far side] is just faster ground. I am here, I´m walking the track today!'The Clerk of the Course Chris Stickels was very pleased with the running and, echoing the compliments being showered on the quality of the redeveloped Ascot, has been widely praised by jockeys for the magnificent standard of the ground. The going today is said to be good-to-firm, and there are no non-runners declared.In what promises to be a memorable Ladies Day and fascinating Gold Cup, Distinction looks set to start as favourite, with people´s favourite Sergeant Cecil expected to be in contention.
