tracked lear until last, soon ridden and no extra
led, ridden after last, headed run-in, no extra towards finish
tracked leaders in 3rd, challenged before last, soon ridden, led run-in, kept on towards finish
Most racegoers will be heading for the exits by now which is a shame as this could be a real tactical battle. UNCLE ALISTAIR has only been beaten once in six starts when falling at Ayr in November. This is his first start over the trip but he's won twice over an extended 2m4f so should have no problems staying. Richard Johnson is likely to make it a stamina test on board Cadeyrn, who made all over the course and distance last month where he looked to have a bit in hand over the official verdict of a neck. Planet Nine was beaten nine lengths by the selection at Carlisle but improved when stepped up to 3m1f at Catterick so won't want any hanging about.
Uncle Alastair 4-6fav (12-0) Tracked leader, challenged from 2 out, every chance last, kept on to lead run-in, won at Ayr 2m (4) hvy in Jan beating Bulkov (11-8) by 1 1/4l, 7 ran.
Cadeyrn (IRE) 9-4 (11-5) Made all, clear after 2 out, just held on near finish, won at Newcastle 2m 6f (4) sft in Jan beating Bob Mahler (11-5) by nk, 8 ran.
Planet Nine (IRE) 11-2 (11-7) Towards rear, headway 3 out, went 2nd before 2 out, led before last, pressed run-in, held on well towards finish, won at Catterick 3m 1f hcp (3) gs in Feb beating Kansas City Chief (12-5) by 1 1/4l, 6 ran.