I’M not quite old enough to recall Grundy and Bustino’s titanic duel in the 1975 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes. But I was indoctrinated into believing it was the greatest race of all time. Watching the footage since, it is hard to disagree. The King George holds so many memories: Shergar, Reference Point, Petoski nailing Oh So Sharp, Nashwan, Montjeu and Galileo, to name a few. Today’s race may lack a Shergar, but it is still a fascinating contest. Cirrus Des Aigles is a worthy representative for the older generation and Trading Leather and Hillstar are three-year-olds on the up. But with eight runners, the 20/1 about UNIVERSAL looks good each-way value and he is as tough as teak.

Today’s other tips:

Maxie T (1.55 Newc): Big improvement is expected from this Mark Johnston juvenile. Nevada Blue may also run very well.

Mambo Spirit (4.25 Ascot): Has an excellent jockey on board in this ladies’ race.

The Grumpy Gnome (4.05 York): Richard Fahey is expecting big improvement from this fellow in a race named after him.

Bondesire (2.30 Newc): Tough and consistent and still looks on a winnable mark.

Secondo (3.55 Newm): Hosed up last time and looks a real improver.

Does anyone have any tips?