Royal Chrome: Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome made his first turf start a winning one in the Hollywood Derby last weekend. It was no certainty that he would take to the surface but he looked quite at home on it and strode out well. It makes a trip to Royal Ascot next year a distinct possibility next year.

It will set up an interesting meeting of contrasting cultures should owners Steve Coburn and Perry Martin ditch the Stetson for a top hat and meet Queen Elizabeth. “Howdy, ma’am, we’re the Dumb Ass Partners, we sure are honoured to meet you.”