Aigle D'Or is the market leader, but if the five-year-old manages to carry 11st 11lb to victory it will be the finest weight-carrying performance since the race was moved to Ascot in 2001.
With the exception of Acambo, who won under 11st 9lb two years ago, no horse has landed this event with more than 11st 2lb.
Henderson's team remain in fine form and, as well as Aigle D'Or, he also saddles recent course winner Sentry Duty with Barry Geraghty aboard, but the six-year-old has to defy a 10lb hike.
Ashkazar heads the weights on 11st 12lb but is making his seasonal debut. Although a tough task, it is worth noting that the Pipe yard saddled Tamarinbleu to win this race first time out in 2005.
Towards the bottom of the 21-runner handicap, the gambled-on Belcantista appears to be one of the more progressive types having won a fair handicap with ease at Exeter last time.
However, this is a considerable step up in class and Belcantista will have to be every bit as good as connections believe if he is to be competitive.
Philip Hobbs's charge may have plenty of improvement to come but, receiving only 5lb from Numide, has his work cut out.
