PATKAI can warm up for his likely Cup campaign with victory in the Woodcote Stud Sagaro Stakes at Ascot.

The four-year-old shaped as a highly promising stayer last term and he will be returning to the scene of his greatest triumph for this Group Three event.

Sir Michael Stoute’s colt has all the allowances in his favour as he makes his seasonal return.

Hailing from an excellent family line that has produced such stars as Islington, Greek Dance and Election Day, Patkai is just the type to improve for another winter on his back.

A winner as a juvenile, Patkai started last year in handicaps before a thoroughly convincing success at Haydock prompted connections to raise their sights and pitch him into Group Three company at Royal Ascot.

He duly demolished his rivals by seven lengths and more in the Queen’s Vase, demonstrating an admirable change of gear for a stayer at the end of the two miles.

Enthusiasm was tempered by a lacklustre run in the rescheduled Great Voltigeur at Goodwood but a half-mile drop in trip combined with waiting tactics did not really play to his strengths.

Back up to two miles and refreshed from the winter, Patkai should show his old sparkle again.

Marine Boy should be given one last chance in the Listed Cleanevent Pavilion Stakes.

He looked a possible worldbeater when strolling home on his juvenile bow but fell short in Pattern company and pulled far too hard on his seasonal return at Newmarket.

Marine Boy obviously has plenty of ability, it is just a question of whether trainer Tom Dascombe can get him to focus his energy in the right direction.

Apple Charlotte was a nice winner at Newmarket towards the end of last season and should be watched as she reappears in the X Factor Stakes.

Ottoman Empire can follow up on a pleasing debut run with victory in Pontefract’s totesport.com Maiden Stakes.

The Pivotal colt holds a Classic entry later in the year and although he will have to step up on his close-up fifth behind Militarist, that effort offered plenty of encouragement for the future.

Presque Perdre is the pick in Kelso’s Andersons Farm Business Consultants Novices’ Hurdle, while Millitant Man is taken to win the Play Golf At Southwell Golf Club Novices’ Handicap Chase.