held up behind leaders, ridden to over 2f out, driven out final furlong
towards rear, never dangerous
ridden and headed 3f out, weakened final furlong
held up mid-division, pushed along 4f out, weakened 2f out
prominent, ridden over 2f out, stayed on same pace
held up mid-division, headway over 3f out, ridden and one-paced final 2f
prominent, led 3f out, headed over 2f out, stayed on same pace final furlong
towads rear, never dangerous
prominent, ridden over 3f out, weakened over 1f out
Best Port has the best credentials to land this staying handicap having been consistent all season, runs well on this surface and looks reasonably handicapped. He is the TEAMtalk selection to put a poor run at Mussleburgh on soft ground behind him. The obvious danger is Barkby but he failed to act on this surface last time out having run well at Wolverhampton the time before. River Of Fire has some useful form in the book and stays this trip well. Unsuited by 2 miles last time this shorter trip will be more to his liking and he holds definite place claims. Xibalba is a bit of an unknown quantity taking a big step up in trip. His trainer does well at this track and the market may prove a good guide to his chances.