tracked leaders, ridden over 3f out, weakened over 1f out
slowly into stride, held up, headway over 2f out, ridden on inside over 1f out, unable to quicken
led, headed over 4f out, ridden over 3f out, weakened over 1f out
with leader, led over 4f out, ridden over 2f out, ran on
Barry Hills took this event twelve months ago and is taken to follow up with Nashwan Star with Ocean Silk and Piano Star the clear dangers. The selection is bred to appreciate this trip so the fact that she was able to finish a highly creditable debut third in a seven-furlong maiden at Newbury last month augurs well for her chances. The form has been given a timely boost with stable mate New Orchid, who was sixth at the Berkshire track, getting off the mark over this trip at Newcastle on Monday so Nashwan Star looks to have solid credentials in an interesting contest. John Gosden saddles Ocean Silk who shaped with plenty of encouragement for the future when runner-up behind a well regarded type on her sole outing as a juvenile in a Newmarket maiden last November. However, her stable has been slow to come to hand and she is probably best watched on her first start since so Piano Star could provide the main threat. Sir Michael Stoute's newcomer, who holds an entry in the Derby, is a well-bred colt being by Darshaan and related to a Grade 1 winner in the States so clearly has to be respected at this level.
