led, headed over 4f out, soon ridden, weakened over 2f out
dwelt, soon chasing leader, led over 4f out, ridden and headed 2f out, edged right and no extra inside final furlong
soon outpaced, kept on final furlong, never dangerous
chased leaders, ridden over 5f out, outpaced 3f out, kept on final furlong, no chance with winner
keen, in touch, ridden and headway over 3f out, led 2f out, drew clear final furlong
held up, effort over 3f out, weakened over 1f out
This course and distance hold no fears for Secret Bloom, so the John Norton-trained gelding is given the nod over Regency Malaya, who is obviously respected after posting two improved efforts of late. Royal Upstart is a lightly raced sort that also merits a second look in the betting; especially as Ben Swarbrick's 5lb claim will help in his bid to reverse recent form with the selection. However, Secret Bloom, who also holds Platinum Chief on a previous course outing, has held his form well and looks the safest option in a very poor contest; where the track record holder can sleep safe for another night.