disputed 2nd place until ridden and weakened approaching final furlong
slowly away, ran green and soon ridden in rear, never a factor
made all, shaken up over 1f out, soon drew well clear very easily
disputed 2nd place, ridden 2f out, soon no chance with winner
tracked leaders on inner, taken to outer and driven 2f out, soon no chance
In a disappointing turnout for the maiden, we will side with Northern Empire ahead of Figaro Flyer. The selection's experience might just count here, as he has shown plenty of promise in finishing second in each start to date, most recently in a Listed Race at Sandown. From the Mick Channon stable, Figaro Flyer, a 40,000 guineas son of Mozart, catches the eye and should go well, while Rag Tag looks best of the others. Overall, though, Northern Empire looks the one to beat.
Figaro Flyer (IRE) Mozart colt out of 5f winner Ellway Star.
Gavarnie Beau (IRE) Imperial Ballet colt out of 7f winner Mysticism.
Northern Empire (IRE) 7-2 (8-12) Prominent, tracked leader going well 2f out, hung left inside final furlong, not pace of winner final 100 yards, 2nd of 11, 3/4l behind Salut d'Amour (8-10) at Sandown 5f 2yo lst stk (1) gd in May.