Paddington and Moore deny Dettori an early Royal Ascot hurrah on day one

Frankie Dettori had a frustrating first day at his final Royal Ascot, finishing runner-up in two races with Chaldean beaten comprehensively by Paddington in the St James’s Palace Stakes and Inspiral narrowly beaten in the opening Queen Anne.

Ryan Moore, victorious on Paddington, said: “He started well and I lost my place going into the bend. But then he took me there [in the home straight], going easy and then he found plenty. He’s a very good colt – he’s improving the whole time and has a big engine.”

Hollie Doyle, meanwhile, had to survive a stewards’ inquiry before being confirmed the winner of the King’s Stand Stakes after steering Bradsell to victory over Highfield Princess. She became the first female jockey to win a Group One race at the meeting.

Earlier, River Tiber gave Aidan O’Brien a record-extending 10th victory in a thrilling Coventry Stakes. The trainer was registering his 82nd winner at the royal meeting, equalling Sir Michael Stoute as the most successful trainer at the fixture.

O’Brien, whose horse was quoted at 8-1 for next year’s 2,000 Guineas by Betfair, said “We always thought he was a Guineas horse. If you think you have a Coventry horse, you almost know you have. He’s relaxed but he was a bit fresh at the start today because he was doing his work so easily.”

Triple Time narrowly denied Dettori a dream start to his final appearance at Royal Ascot in the opening race of the day, the Queen Anne Stakes.

After riding a patient race, Dettori delivered 11-4 chance Inspiral with what looked a perfectly timed challenge, but she was came off second best after a tussle with the widely unconsidered winner.

Victorious trainer Kevin Ryan stated: “He’s up there [with the best I’ve had], he’s very good. He’s got a