led, not fluent 3rd, hit 6th, ridden and headed 3 out, soon weakened
mid-division, headway approaching 6th, led 3 out, soon clear, very easily
held up, reminders after 4th, headway 3 out, no impression after
held up in touch, went 2nd after 4th, ridden and one pace from 3 out
chased leaders until 5th, weakened 7th
held up, headway 6th, ridden after 3 out, kept on same pace
in touch, ridden after 6, lost place next, stayed on from 2 out, went 2nd flat, no chance with winner
held up, headway 6th, chased winner from 3 out, weakened approaching last, lost 2nd flat
chased leaders, mistake 3rd, ridden and weakened approaching 7th
held up in touch, ridden and weakened after 3 out
Lord Of Beauty looks the answer to a tricky opener, with Senor Sedona and Opportunity Knocks put forward as the main rivals. Noel Chance's gelding put up a decent display her in May over a slightly shorter trip, finishing an excellent second to Constantine. He only went down by half a length in that competitive affair and if he is fit following a summer break he looks the one to beat. Opportunity Knocks showed plenty of promise behind two decent types in a bumper last time and will improve for the experience. However the main threat to the selection could be Senor Sedona who finished runner up behind two potential stars in bumpers, The Thunderer and Historic Place. No doubt he will have been well schooled by his shrewd handler and could be a danger to all. Appach and Tip Away are also worthy of a mention, but in a very open affair Lord Of Beauty just edges the decision.
