tracked clear winner to 8f out, ridden and weakened over 3f out, virtually pulled up final 2f , tailed off
held up well in rear, effort on outside 3f out, one pace final 2f
raced in 4th, chased clear winner 8f out, closed over 4f out, led narrowly 2f out, headed and out battled final 100 yards
held up, headway and went 12 lengths 3rd over 4f out, ridden and no impression final 2f, lost moderate 3rd last stride
held up, pushed along 3f out, stayed on under pressure final 2f, went 3rd final stride, no chance with first two
led, clear 10f out, reduced lead over 4f out, narrowly headed 2f out, stayed challenging, rallied and battled on well to regain lead final 100 yards
slowly into stride, held up well in rear, effort on wide outside 3f out, soon one pace and struggling
raced in 3rd and off the pace until over 4f out, soon lost place, virtually pulled up final 2f
A tactical race may not suit Sanbuch so we'll take a chance with Tungsten Strike in the hope that he can slip his field. Sanbuch gave Bauer 2lbs and a half length beating over course and distance in a handicap at the Glorious meeting with the previously tricky ride responding well to the fitting of blinkers. He benefited from the headgear and also from the change of tactics that saw him race closer to the pace; the strong pace also suited him and he should be able to confirm the form although, in truth, there's little to choose between the pair. Petara Bay steps up in class and down in trip and is worthy of a second look as connections have long held the belief that their colt is capable of competing at the highest level and his pedigree offers hope that he could improve for this first attempt at this distance. Shahin is an enigmatic performer who has yet to put it all in this season but he does have ability whereas it's difficult to see the likes of Heron Bay and Veenwouden being able to play any more than bit part roles on this stage. The selection has no secrets and has work to do at the weights but he's a decent sort on his day and could get the run of things out in front. He usually runs well at the track and his latest effort was no exception as he set a strong pace in the Goodwood Cup which was good enough to repel all of his rivals bar the superstar that is Yeats. There's no Yeats in this field and it's worth taking a chance that Tungsten Strike can make every yard.
