slowly into stride, never troubled leaders
towards rear, never troubled leaders
dwelt, soon chased leaders, ridden over 2f out, kept on inside final furlong, never dangerous
led, headed over 1f out, soon one pace
in touch, headway on inside over 2f out, led over 1f out, pushed clear, comfortable
slowly into stride, behind, kept on from over 1f out, nearest finish
slowly into stride, never troubled leaders
slowly into stride, headway on outside halfway, soon ridden, weakened 2f out
This represents a big drop in grade for Taranaki who can get the better of Phrenologist and George Stubbs. Peter Cundell's charge landed a class C Salisbury handicap in early October and wasn't disgraced in a better race at Newmarket last time. His form on this track last winter wasn't spectacular but he seems to have improved since then and can get the better of these rivals. The main danger could be Phrenologist who arrives here in good form having beaten Salon Prive over course and distance a fortnight ago, he hails from a top stable and is open to further improvement. Nick Littmoden's runners always warrant respect and George Stubbs is starting to look very well handicapped. He is probably better over seven furlongs but should still be capable of fighting for a place. Mistral Sky is another to consider following an excellent victory here on Saturday but Taranaki should have too much class.