Mezcala can double Up in Internatioal Handicap

The Moët & Chandon International Handicap (historically the International Stakes) is a highly competitive Class 2 Heritage Handicap scheduled to take place at Ascot Racecourse.

Run over a straight distance of seven furlongs, this £150,000 showcase features a field of 17 confirmed runners and serves as one of the major undercard attractions on King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes day

Let’s get into today’s preview and tips.

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Mezcala can double Up in Internatioal Handicap

A field of seventeen runners line up for the International Handicap at Ascot.

Mezcala won the Buckingham Stakes Handicap overcoming a slow start. I was impressed by how well he quickened to pick up the leaders. Conditions are the same for the International Handicap with what looks a good high drawn in stall 13.

Mezcala was given a four-pound hike in the ratings for his Royal Ascot victory which looks very fair. He has been in cracking form this season with two wins and a third-place finish. Mezcala remains on the right side of the handicapper and if he jumps smartly then has a great winning chance against an inexperienced favourite.

Akkadian Thunder had the door closed on him when looking a winner at Doncaster last weekend. David O’Meara turns him out quickly and has booked Jamie Spencer for the ride.

Jamie might just be the right jockey to get this horse to land on the line off a good rating of 91. He has course and distance form having finished second to Never So Brave in the Buckingham Palace Stakes in 2025. Seven furlongs on summer ground suit him well and he looks overpriced.

Ascot 2:55

0.5 point each way Mezcala 11/2 William Hill else 5/1 generally, 5 places.

0.5 point each way Akkadian Thunder 16/1 generally, 5 places.

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Best of Luck, Nicky

Latest winner: Urban Lion @ 12/1

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