close up, chased winner over 1f out, soon ridden, kept on same pace
reluctant to leave stalls, in rear, ridden 2f out, never dangerous
tracked leader, led over 1f out, soon ridden, stayed on
Retaliate gets the confident vote in this handicap with What A Treasure and Pelican Key also on the shortlist. The selection has dropped to a handy mark, and he should relish these conditions as both of his career wins have come on soft ground. Admittedly, this will be more testing but that should suit and with the step-up in trip also in his favour he will be hard to beat. What A Treasure ran well when second behind Indians Feather last time and her yard continue in good form so she is respected. Pelican Key is another worthy of respect on his best form but he was beaten by Diamond Diva last time and the suspicion is that the handicapper may just have his measure at present. Regal Quest is another that should like the ground but he is also high enough in the weights, and Retaliate is put forward as the one they all have to beat.
Regal Quest (IRE) 16-1 (8-7) Pulled hard early, held up, ridden and unable to quicken 2f out, 6th of 9, 2l behind Danehillsundance (8-11) at Sandown 7f 3yo hcp (3) gs.
Mystery Ocean 20-1 (9-4) In rear, headway over 2f out, kept on, 5th of 12, 8l behind Mark of Love (7-10) at Newbury 1m 3yo hcp (4) hvy.
What A Treasure (IRE) 17-2 (9-0) Chased leaders, ridden to lead over 1f out, headed final strides, 2nd of 12, hd behind Indian's Feather (9-13) at Yarmouth 7f fll hcp (5) sft.
Retaliate 25-1 (9-3) Chased winner until over 3f out, last of 8, 16l behind Dramatic (9-13) at Yarmouth 6f 3yo hcp (6) gs in Jun.
Pelican Key (IRE) 10-1 (8-2) Led, edged right well over 1f out, soon headed and weakened, 6th of 7, 10l behind Diamond Diva (9-10) at Folkestone 7f fll hcp 0-95 (3) gf.