held up behind leaders, effort 2f out, soon one pace and no impression
held up behind leaders, pushed along over 2f out, soon beaten
set steady pace, pusuhed along over 2f out, headed over 1f out, soon no chance with winner, kept on well for 2nd
raced keenly, tracked leader, driven to lead over 1f out, soon clear
Prince Tum Tum gets the call here ahead of New Seeker and Ikhtyar. The selection at last began to harness his talent last season and wound up by winning a Listed race Kempton. He had earlier run in what proved to be hot maidens and, lightly raced, can do well this year. Looking at the others. The James Fanshawe-trained Heretic is well regarded but will need to find more than it took to win at Thirsk last time. At least he comes here with a fitness advantage over his rivals. Ikhtyar did not progress from his two runs last season but it is promising that connections are persevering with him and his overall form gives him a good shout here. Putra Pekan more than earns his keep from year to year, while Atavus will probably be vulnerable if electing to take them along. New Seeker proved a revelation last season, winning valuable handicaps at this track. He could well go well again with his stable in very good form. Maghanim looked very good two years ago but injury has curtailed his racecourse appearances. Once again, then, overall, we will side with Prince Tum Tum.
