Dubai's Godolphin take the centre stage at Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot, the greatest show on turf is back and Tuesday's opener promises a rich mixture of revenge stories, future superstar spotting, and veteran class.

- Leslie Wilson Jr [e-mail]

Godolphin, the powerful Dubai-owned stable come into the Royal meeting with an army of contenders — a nice blend of proven performers and up-and-comers - and a lot to prove. The first day's racing will provide the perfect snapshot of their depth and ability to add to their haul of 57 winners at the three-century-old extravaganza.

Whether it's the 2,000 Guineas (G1) king Ruling Court, the unbeaten 2-year-old Military Code, or veteran Ascot winner Passion And Glory Tuesday promises stories at every stride and every turn.

Notable Speech, last year's 2,000 Guineas (G1) winner, is back for another showdown with Dubai-owned Rosallion in the Group 1 Queen Anne (5.30 UAE). Run over a mile, the Queen Anne Stakes always produces drama and is a fitting start to Royal Ascot. It is the first of eight Group 1 contests from 35 thrilling races that will be staged over the next five days.

Tuesday's showpiece is the third meeting between Notable Speech and Rosallion. Rosallion represents Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, winner of the 1998 Epsom Derby with High Rise. Notable Speech struck first in the 2000 Guineas before Rosallion turned the tables in the St James's Palace last season.