held up in rear, effort over 4f out, ridden and headway over 2f out, kept on one pace final furlong, went 2nd inside final furlong, no chance with winner
chased leaders, ridden over 3f out, led approaching 2f out, changed right over 1f out, kept on well inside final furlong
chased leader, ridden over 2f out, soon weakened
led, quickened pace 6f out, ridden over 3f out, headed approaching 2f out, soon weakened
soon tracking leaders on outer, ridden over 3f out, weakened final 2f
behind, ridden and headway over 2f out, stayed on final furlong
The William Haggas-trained Escayola disappointed on his reappearance and, while better than his showing there, is probably best watched for the moment so the vote goes to Flotta, who is preferred to Star Member. The last mentioned was given too much to do at Ascot last time and is better judged on his earlier run here at York. He rates a bigger threat than recent Ripon winner Tiyoun, who has more to do today. Toby Balding's Gold Ring probably wants more cut in the ground, while Tim Easterby's Thewhirlingdervish may find himself outpaced again. The vote then goes to Flotta. Mick Channon's gave an indication at Ayr last month that he is running into form and, given a strong pace, should take plenty of beating.
