This year's edition of the Kingston Town Classic features an intriguing “rematch”  between gun mare Inspirational Girl and the horse that appeared very unlucky behind her last start, Too Close The Sun. 

Both provided us with an epic clash in the Group 1 Railway Stakes last time out, where the exciting mare rattled home over the top of Too Close The Sun who looked unsuited by the hot tempo. 

Given a more charmed run this time, I expect the tables to be turned.    

 Ascot Track Traits

The Ascot surface is currently rated a Good 4, with the rail in the True position for the entire circuit. 

Fine conditions are predicted for the remainder of the week and on Saturday. 

With the rail in the True position, expect the track to race fair. However as always, a close watch is advised early to determine any fast lanes or bias.  

The Map 

This race should be run at a moderate to fast tempo, being a Group 1 and with a number of noted on-pace profiles. 

I expect Too Close The Sun (10) to have the superior early speed to carve across and lead.

The stablemate Trap For Fools (17) is also a natural leader, however due to the common ownership status (both owned by District Racing), I doubt he will be applying much pressure to the main chance.  

Look for Gailo Chop (10) to kick up from the good draw and race just in behind the leaders. 

Racing Market Movers 

Race favourite Inspirational Girl has drifted out to $2.35, from her opening quote of $2.10.

Meanwhile, Bob Peters' hope Western Empire has been well supported and backed from $16 into $11.

Too Close The Sun remains steady at $9.

Key Runners 

#4 Too Close The Sun $9.50

Put in a huge run in the Railway over 1600m, when he rode a white-hot speed and was very brave finishing second behind Inspirational Girl.

He possibly should have beaten the favourite on that occasion and if there is any mid-race breather in this clash, expect him to be there at the end.

Now rock hard fit, the 1800m here is perfect and at the luxury price ($9.50) he must go on top.   

#11 Truly Great $19

Is from the gun cerise and white stable and arrives here as the least favoured of the Bob Peters runners.

She finished midfield (7 of 16)  in the Railway last start, when only 3 lengths off the winner Inspirational Girl.

It is very brave to bet against this yard and although their other runners appear superior, this horse certainly would not surprise. Keep safe. 

#12 Inspirational Girl $2.10 > $2.35

Was ultra impressive winning the Railway last start, when racing well back in the field before cruising up to win with ease.

She did have a fast tempo to suit that day and was possibly a little flattered.

Still, she did look outstanding to the eye and now that she's fitter, could improve again coming into this. Leading chance.   

#13 Kay Cee $10

Was very disappointing last start in the Railway, when dropping out to finish 11 of 16.

Something appeared to be amiss in that run and I would be inclined to forgive.

I expect the price to drift from the current $10 and if she gets out to big odds, she would be worth a ticket.

Look for a much bigger price close to start time.  

#15 Dom To Shoot $7.50

Last start ran well in the WA Guineas to place 3 of 16, and as a three-year-old here is only asked to carry the 52kg.

No doubt this is a big step up in grade, however he looks progressive and is largely untapped at this stage of the career.

Any late money close to start time would have me very interested. 

#16 Watch Me Dance $9.50

Is a gun three-year-old filly who is coming off a last start win in the WA Guineas, at this track over 1600m.

She is loaded with ability and is another three-year-old who only has to carry the feather weight (52kg).

It is tough to line up the three-year-old’s in this race, however given the right run she can be in the finish.   

#19 Western Empire (e) $16 > $11

Currently sits as an emergency, however is likely to gain a start with a number of scratchings.

He is another entry of powerful local owner Bob Peters, whose horses can never be underestimated.

Being a three-year-old he still has plenty of upside and a win would not shock. 

Of The Others

#6 Neufbosc won the WA Carbine Club here last start over 1400m and now jumps sharply up to 1800m.

He has won out to 2400m and if the pressure went on, is sure to be one of the strongest late. Watch betting. 

For a list of all the tipsters who have posted Ascot tips for Saturday's racing meet, checkout the dedicated page at theGreatTipOff.com.