chased leaders, ridden over 2f out, lead over 1f out, ran on inside final furlong, headed post
slowly into stride, mid-division, ridden over 2f out, soon weakened
led, ridden and headed over 2f out, weakened over 1f out
chased leaders, ridden over 2f out, kept on same place after
swerved left start, behind, ridden over 2f out, kept on final furlong, no impression
slowly into stride, held up, not much room 2f out when headway, switched left soon after, ran on well to lead close home
with leader and keen, ridden over 2f out, weakened final furlong
behind, ridden 3f out, kept on final 2f
prominent, ridden to lead over 2f out, headed over 1f out, no extra towards finish
in touch, ridden 3f out, soon weakened
An open affair can go to Raphael at the expense of a whole host of dangers including Border Artist, Gifted Flame and Zap Attack. Tim Easterby has his team in tip-top shape at present which augurs well for the chance of Raphael who can boast a course win earlier in the season. Since then he has kept good company, and had every chance when fourth to Kareeb at York nine days ago. He has nothing to fear here if running up to his best, but there are a few who can make their presence felt, not least Border Artist who bounced back to form at Epsom 11 days ago in what was his third outing in four days. The strong pace suited Dandy Nichols' charge who was able to come late over the six furlongs, and as he has won twice over this trip, another big run is on the cards. Gifted Flame is drawn in stall one but is another course winner, while Zap Attack has also not been done any favours by the draw, and his Chepstow success was gained in moderate company. Mehmaas has not scored since taking this event last year but always goes well here, while it would be no surprise if Williams Well gave a prominent showing. However, for the winner we return to Raphael.