tracked leader, ran wide bend after 3f out, gradually weakened
led, ridden and headed 3f out, weakened quickly
in touch, ridden over 3f out, soon weakened
held up, ridden 4f out, soon weakened
held up, headway over 4f out, ridden and every chance final furlong, ran on
in touch, headway halfway, led 3f out, ridden and headed 2f out, weakened final furlong
held up, ridden over 4f out, soon weakened
tracked leaders, led going well 2f out, ridden over 1f out, all out
Vodka Bleu was held in very high regard by his previous connections and having joined Martin Pipe's stable after winning an Irish bumper he looks as though he will be very hard to beat especially if there is significant market support. Of those who have seen a racecourse, besides Vodka Bleu, Yankee Crossing looks to have the best form though on paper it is nothing special. Thames is an interesting runner from Nicky Henderson's yard. Well bred for this type of event he should put up a good account of himself though whether he can beat the favourite at these weights remains to be seen. The rest look nothing special but as ever in this sort of race the market close to the off will provide the best guide to each horse's chances.