started slowly, soon in touch,not clear run and hampered from 4f out to inside final 2f,kept on to chase winner final furlong,no impression
prominent, headway to lead over 3f out, hard pressed after, headed inside final 2f,stayed on same pace
held up mid-division,ridden and outpaced 2f out, stayed on again inside final furlong
led narrowly, headed over 4f out, ridden and weakened 2f out
raced wide,close up, effort 3f out, soon under pressure and weakened 2f out
behind, outpaced 2f out, never dangerous
held up mid-division, headway over 2f out, led inside final 2f, ran on strongly final furlong
with leader, led narrowly over 4f out, ridden and headed over 3f out, weakened approaching final furlong
Frank Sonata sprung a surprise when winning at York earlier in the week but is unlikely to repeat the success sunder a 4lb penalty today and preference is for Swagger Stick, who gets the vote over Another Choice. The last mentioned has won his last two starts in handicaps at Beverley and Bath. However, a 7lb rise for the latest of those success leaves Nick Littmoden's colt with a lot more to do in a tougher race. Michael Jarvis has his string in good form at present so it will come as no surprise to see Maganda step up on his Ripon maiden success now that he tackles a handicap for the first time, while Charlie Egerton's Hernando colt Vinando is less exposed than some of his rivals and cannot be discounted. Sir Michael Stoute's Maraahel has claims if fit enough for his reappearance over a trip that should bring about improvement, while Paul Cole's Bukit Fraser has the assistance of Kieren Fallon and is another to consider. The vote though goes to Swagger Stick. John Dunlop's colt has looked a progressive performer this term with wins over Hazyview (three times a winner since) and a three-length defeat of Nessen Dorma (a winner since) in two handicaps at Leicester. Admittedly the son of Cozzene has gone up a further 10lbs for his latest success but, with his form having worked out so well, Swagger Stick is difficult to oppose.