prominent to 11th, soon weakened
behind when pulled up before 11th
behind, blundered badly 11th, stayed on under pressure from 4 out, mistake 2 out, soon no extra
held up towards rear, steady headway 12th, chased leader 4 out, every chance next, no extra under pressure approaching 2 out
headway 7th, led 9th, driven 2 out, headed and no extra final 75 yards
led to 4th, stayed prominent, chance from 3 out, weakened under pressure after 2 out
behind, stayed on from 4 out, never dangerous
behind, tailed off when eased 4 out
in touch to 10th, soon weakened, tailed off when fell 2 out
in touch, challenged 3 out, hard ridden approaching last, driven and ran on to lead final 75 yards
led 4th to 9th, soon lost touch, blundered badly 12th and soon pulled up
Some real old stagers on view here and it would be no surprise to see the admirable Super Tactics emerge as the most determined of them. Although well into the veteran stage of his career he has enjoyed a tremendous season and gained just reward with an all the way win at his beloved Kempton last time. Celibate also makes plenty of appeal now that he returns to a more suitable distance than that of his gallant effort in the Grand National, and is one for the shortlist. Wave Rock is also an interesting contender here and looks to the best of the younger brigade if his stamina holds out at two-and-a-half miles. Biliverdin has run with credit of late and is another to consider along with Nordance Prince, who would be beat them all if he were somewhere near his best. This a more realistic target than when he made his comeback in the Champion Chase at the Festival after two years off the track, and a market move for him would be the best indication of the confidence behind his chance.
