Bow Echo survived a photo finish to defeat Gstaad by a short head in the St James's Palace Stakes, confirming his 2000 Guineas form despite a rough start from the stalls. Billy Loughnane guided the 5/6 favorite through traffic on the outside while Ryan Moore challenged boldly up the inner on stablemate Puerto Rico. The narrow victory kept Bow Echo unbeaten and marked a strong start for trainer George Boughey.

In stunning fashion, Ten Bob Tony shocked the Queen Anne Stakes at 50/1 odds, delivering a David and Goliath story for owner Simon Sadler of Blackpool FC. The five-year-old stayed on strongly under Kieran Shoemark, overhauling Opera Ballo and More Thunder in the final furlong to win by half a length. Previously a seven-furlong specialist, his mile victory proved trainer Ed Walker's gamble paid off handsomely.

Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore completed their Group One collection at Royal Ascot as Mission Central swooped late to win the King Charles III Stakes. The 14/1 shot denied French raider Rayevka by a head after Australia's Overpass looked the likely winner. O'Brien moved to 98 Royal Ascot winners, closing in on a career century at the meeting.

Great Barrier Reef maintained his unbeaten record in the Coventry Stakes while Kizlyar led home Joseph O'Brien's one-two in the Ascot Stakes. Map Of Stars and Daiquiri Bay completed a memorable opening day that showcased the meeting's international appeal.