RUSHMORE won a similar four-runner contest over course and distance a fortnight ago and a 3lb rise may not be enough to prevent him confirming running with third-placed Set Point. The latter failed to get a clear run on that occasion and may finish closer today and Saligo Bay may do better on today’s faster ground as he steps up in trip. Leopardo never threatened when fourth at Newmarket and is also upped in distance.
Leopardo (USA) 12-1 (9-4) Led far side group, led overall 5f out when groups merged, headed 4f out, ridden 3f out, kept on same pace final furlong, 4th of 6, 6l behind River Alwen (9-10) at Newmarket 1m 2f hcp (3) gf in May.
Set Point (IRE) 2-1fav (9-9) Chased leaders, raced keenly early stages, switched left and went 2nd over 2f out, lost 2nd inside final furlong, held inside final furlong, carried left towards finish, 3rd of 4, 1 3/4l behind Rushmore (8-6) at Goodwood 1m 4f hcp (4) gd in Jun.
Saligo Bay (IRE) 5-1 (8-10) Tracked winner, ridden and every chance over 1f out, no extra inside final furlong, 3rd of 5, 6 1/2l behind Lord Protector (9-7) at Salisbury 1m 2f hcp (3) sft in May.
Rushmore 11-4 (8-6) Held up in last, pushed along over 2f out, headway over 2f out, went 2nd inside final furlong, edged left and led towards finish, won at Goodwood 1m 4f hcp (4) gd in Jun beating Love Is Golden (9-7) by 3/4l, 4 ran.
