tracked leaders, chased winner after 5 out, ridden to challenge approaching 2 out, every chance last, kept on flat
tracked leader, left in lead after 1st, headed 6th, behind 5 out, refused next
led until fell 1st
held up, ridden and every chance 3f out, one-paced from next
tracked leader, led 6th, ridden and under pressure approaching 2 out, all out
held up in rear, hit 3 out, ridden to challenge 2 out, every chance last, no extra close home
After rapid strides last season, Turgeonev is the class horse in this contest, but he is still 15lbs higher than his highest winning mark and can be taken on with that in mind. In his favour, he loves the track, ground and trip. He looks sure to be right now after two starts already this season, but with top weight we will oppose him. Instead, the TEAMtalk vote goes to the progressive Carrick Troop. A course and distance winner himself last time out, he has gone up 7lbs as a result, but still has to shoulder only 10st 3lbs here. A good jumper he has had a month to recover from that first run, and if he doesn't suffer from the 'bounce' factor then he can again lead them home here. Monarch's Pursuit has a 2lb pull with the selection for over a three length beating in that race last month, and he does not look to have the scope of his rival, and will find it difficult to pass him at these weights. Abalvino looks exposed at the moment, though he comes from a yard with an exemplary record here and could have place claims, while Star Jack should also be thereabouts after avoiding a penalty here for a recent six length defeat of Xaipete.
