unruly to post, chased leader until after 7th, ridden 12th, weakened after 5 out, behind when pulled up before 3 out
held up, mistake and stumbled 2nd, some headway when not fluent 8th, effort 11th, soon weakened, behind when pulled up before 4 out
held up, headway 5 out, one pace from 3 out
led, ridden and headed approaching 4 out, weakened after 3 out
chased leaders, went 2nd after 7th, led approaching 4 out, pushed along from 2 out, stayed on well
in touch, pecked 6th, not fluent and lost ground 9th, weakened after 12th
held up in touch, mistake 11th, headway next, went 2nd approaching 3 out, ridden 2 out, stayed on but unable to challenge winner
An interesting race where Tanikos undoubtedly has very sound claims at the weights. However, he has a little to prove regarding his jumping and is opposed with Curtains Hill, who also has the edge as a proven stayer over this sort of trip. Prokofiev is an inconsistent performer who will keep his supporters guessing right down to the line. But he'll give them all plenty to think about if he consents to run anywhere near his true capacity today. However, as that cannot be guaranteed on his recent profile, Curtains Hill looks to be the more solid option today. Tom George's runners have been acquitting themselves well in recent weeks and this son of Roi Guillame did his bit with a comprehensive defeat of the likes of Running Machine in a Novices' Handicap at Sandown last month. Curtains Hill was raised 7lb for that success and will need to continue to progress if he is to defy the burden today. However, he has shown that he has got what it takes to rise to meet a test and he could be a lively outsider if he makes the final line up for the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup on the Tuesday of the Festival.
