mid-division, ridden and headway 3f out, led final furlong, soon clear, comfortably
led, ridden and headed halfway, weakened over 1f out
in touch, soon ridden, headway over 1f out, kept on final furlong, never dangerous
prominent, ridden halfway, weakening when not much room over 1f out
slowly into stride, always behind
prominent, led halfway, ridden over 2f out, headed final furlong, soon beaten
Several old favourites turn out for this, none more so than 2001 Lincoln winner Nimello, who can take care of the likes of Pup's Pride and Risk Free. Three times a winner here (once over this trip), Nimello clearly handles the surface and he should have no trouble adding to his tally, meeting his rivals on more favourable terms than if this was a handicap. Course specialist Risk Free may be the one to chase him home. David Evans' charge is as tough as old boots and certainly won't let the selection have everything his own way, but he would be 6lbs better off if this was a handicap. Pup's Pride seems to have been around forever and it is surprising he is only six. While he does have something to find with the principals on these terms, he cannot be left out of calculations. Seven times a winner here, Feast Of Romance is another one for the shortlist, but we will stick with Nimello, who comes here fresher than most at this time of the year.
