prominent, led 2f out, ridden over 1f out, kept on, headed and no extra final stride
chased leaders, ridden over 2f out, soon weakened
behind until ridden and kept on from over 1f out, never troubled leaders
took keen hold, led, headed 2f out, soon ridden, weakened inside final furlong
chased leaders, outpaced 3f out, never on terms
behind, outpaced over 2f out, ridden and ran on well inside final furlong, nearest finish
chased leaders to 2f out, soon weakened
in touch, ridden and effort over 1f out, kept on one pace final furlong
prominent, ridden and every chance over 1f out, kept on same pace
chased leaders, ridden over 1f out, kept on same pace final furlong
Palawan is very capable at this level and is worth chancing over the likes of Rafters Music, Malahide Express and the old boy Cretan Gift in a race littered with course and distance winners. Palawan is one of the few that does not fit into that category but has won here before, although that was over seven furlongs three years ago. Since then he has made his name as an out and out sprinter, his most recent victory coming at Yarmouth where he battled his way to victory over Corridor Creeper and Fruit Of Glory. That was a class C contest, so although he has gone up in the weights, Andrew Balding's game inmate should make his presence felt, especially with Amy Parsons taking off a valuable seven pounds. Rafters Music has been very consistent and should again be there or thereabouts, while Malahide Express is on a fair mark, but really needs six furlongs. As for Cretan Gift, he owes his supporters nothing and would have carried this lot in his prime. But, you never know, even at the age of 12, he may be capable of sneaking into a place, otherwise Nick Littmoden would not keep him going. However, it has to be Palawan to get back to winning ways.