Henrythenavigator backed for Ascot glory

Henrythenavigator is clear favourite with Coral for Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes following some strong support.

Aidan O'Brien's dual 2000 Guineas winner tasted defeat in France last time but punters are keen on his chances of returning to winning form and he is now a 6-4 chance with Tamayuz next best at 13-8.

Coral spokesman David Stevens said: "Having already won 20 Group Ones this year, it's hardly surprising punters are backing Aidan O'Brien's runner.

"If the ground at Ascot stays good, Henrythenavigator looks sure to remain at the head of the betting."

Raven's Pass have finished behind Henrythenavigator three times this term and once behind Tamayuz but jockey Jimmy Fortune is hoping to reverse the form this time.

"We are just very unfortunate that our lad is running in the year Henrythenavigator is around," said the jockey.

"We have met him three times and he has beaten us three times - albeit we have got closer every time we have met him. If he was not around, we would have the champion so it is just unlucky.

"His main aim is the Breeders' Cup and the boss hasn't overdone him for this race so he is probably a little bit heavier than he normally is.

"Having said that, I rode him work the other morning and he is in great form so I'm quietly confident he will run a very big race.

"He gets the mile well and I wouldn't be surprised if he got further in time as he is nice and relaxed now."