Racing: Aussie quartet fancied at Royal Ascot

LONDON - The speedy Australian quartet of Takeover Target, Bentley Biscuit, Miss Andretti and Magnus head the 26 entries still standing for the King's Stand Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot on Tuesday (Wednesday, NZT).

Lee Freedman's Miss Andretti currently heads the market for the 1000m event ahead of Takeover Target, successful in the group two event last year.

Bentley Biscuit and Magnus are thought to be more suited to 1200m of the Golden Jubilee four days later.

Gai Waterhouse's Bentley Biscuit warmed up for the race when working over 1200m of the July Course in Newmarket under big-race partner Nash Rawiller yesterday.

The home defence will be led by Benbaun. Mark Wallace's 6-year-old was beaten a short head 12 months ago and returned better than ever on his seasonal reappearance at the Curragh.

Dandy Nicholls' Tax Free is another sprinter at the top of his game in a very strong race field.

- AAP