chased leaders, outpaced from 13th, 6 lengths down in 3rd when blundered and unseated rider last, remounted and continued
led, blundered 2nd, headed 2 out, ridden and one pace flat
tracked leader, led 2 out, ridden out
Assuming that Ad Hoc will be rerouted elsewhere after finishing last of the six finishers in a Listed race at Cheltenham - and easier options will be sought for Indian Scout following his gallant placed-effort in handicap-company at Wetherby during yesterday's action. Kingsmark will most probably face just four rivals as he bids to equal Silver Buck's record of four consecutive victories in this Grade 2 contest. The lightly raced 10-year-old renews rivalries with last year's runner up Chives, who is 6lb worse-off this time around, and also takes on last season's nearly horse Hussard Collonges, who has a little to prove as he bids to get his career back on track. However, this trio are more likely to be suited by the conditions than the improving Swansea Bay, who takes a big step up in class as he bids to maintain his unbeaten run this term. And although both Chives and Hussard Collonges are very much respected in their claims, history is with Kingsmark and he is fancied to reach his landmark victory today. This course brings the best out of the son of Roselier and the patience shown by his connections has already been rewarded as the rain poured down on Merseyside on Saturday. Hussard Collonges is just preferred to give the selection the most to do as he finally gets his ground. Peter Beaumont also knows exactly what is required to get one ready for this race and a bold bid is anticipated from his charge. But Kingsmark has the more reliable profile and, as a proven weight carrier, he can again defy the burden of top weight on his favourite course.
