ROYAL Ascot kicks off with the Queen Anne Stakes (2.30pm) featuring several high-class performers including Godolphin’s favourite, Notable Speech.

William Buick’s ride heads the betting after an impressive victory in the Lockinge, but there could be reason to oppose him at the prices.

He has been beaten on both starts at Ascot, including in this race last season where, for all he travelled strongly, he didn’t find as much as expected when pressure was applied.

That opens the door for OPERA BALLO, who looks capable of landing his first domestic Group One prize.

He already has a victory at the very top level, courtesy of his success in the Jebel Hatta in Dubai, which he followed with success back on these shores in a Sandown Group Two in April.

He made all that day, and a repeat of those tactics could be very effective here, so he gets the vote and I’m siding with him in the World Pool Win market.

A Quinella involving OPERA BALLO, MORE THUNDER and DOCKLANDS could prove to be a valuable play too.

MORE THUNDER has progressed rapidly and looks the type to thrive with the way this race will likely set up. He possesses a smart turn of foot and could be open to further improvement.

Last year’s winner, DOCKLANDS, meanwhile, is a proven Ascot performer who rarely runs a bad race here. His track experience is invaluable for this type of bet so he must be included in the Quinella.

With Notable Speech, who I’m opposing, bound to take up a large portion of the pool, we’ll be rewarded handsomely if we can force him out of the frame with these three.

POINTERS                                                                                     ASCOT

Opera Ballo (Win)                                                                         2.30pm                         
Opera Ballo, More Thunder, Docklands (Quinella)        2.30pm