David Simcock wants rain to aid Desert Encounter's King George bid
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Tue 5 Dec 2023
David Simcock is keeping his fingers crossed testing conditions prevail at Ascot on Saturday to give Desert Encounter the best chance of causing an upset in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
The five-year-old is a general 20-1 shot for the prestigious contest having produced a career-best performance to finish third on his Group One debut in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown at the start of the month.
Simcock said: "It's been the owner's plan for a while.
"I'd love it if it came up soft as it would inconvenience a few of the others and we know he goes through it."
The King George received a significant potential boost over the weekend after connections of dual Oaks heroine Enable gave the filly the option of taking on the boys for the first time.
While Simcock respects John Gosden's charge, he questioned whether she will be at her best just a fortnight after her latest Classic triumph at the Curragh.
"We all like to see good horses run in races like this. John Gosden did it with Taghrooda and Enable is fast-improving," Simcock told At The Races.
"If I played devil's advocate, is it a bit too close to the Irish Oaks? We'll see."
Related posts
Saturday ante-post tips: 25-1 chance makes appeal in Lincoln
Watch: Constitution Hill makes short work of Kempton rivals
Dave Nevison's Wednesday tips: three bets at Kempton and Hereford
Constitution Hill: who does he have to beat at Kempton tonight?
Sir Gino was unforgettable in every way, says Henderson
Featured offers
Bet £10 Get £40 in Free Bets + money back if 2nd to SP fav with Boyle Sports
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Get a £50 free bet when you bet £50 with Coral
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 Get £50 in free bets in Multis with Betfair
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
£30 in free bets when you bet £5 with Ladbrokes
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Bet £10 get £30 in free bets with Virgin Bet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved