There are those who think that Royal Ascot is only about high-fashion, Royalty, and people-watching.

But they should pay close study during the meeting to one particular immaculately dressed, well-connected individual in a rare, silk top hat.

And then they would understand what the four-day meeting is really about - competition.

Henry Cecil, one of the most talented trainers in Britain, is the man who needs observing.

No one currently holding a trainers' licence has won more races at Royal Ascot than he has - 61, compared to the 38 accrued by his nearest rival Sir Michael Stoute.

For all his finery at Ascot, you can not help but notice the tension that the saddling of each fancied runner brings.

Quite simply, Royal Ascot is the most competitive Flat race meeting in the calendar. Every race matters, because every race is of the highest quality.

"I have always thought that Royal Ascot was THE meeting of the year in our Flat racing calendar," Cecil says.

"To have a winner there gives one a sense of achievement. The competition is of the highest standard and the races take a lot of winning."

This year's meeting has even greater emphasis than usual for Cecil because, by his supremely lofty standards, he has endured such a miserable start to the season.

He became frustrated earlier in the season when people were questioning why his horses were running poorly, saying simply that his horses had not "come to hand"; in other words found their form.

"They are running very well now and the majority are finishing in the first three," Cecil says. "I had hoped overall they would be better than they are.

"However, I feel that I could have the odd Royal card to play which might get us out of trouble.

"On the whole, our team this year is on the weak side, but I feel that we have a chance in three of our four races."