tracked leaders, ridden from 9th, weakened 11th, pulled up 4 out
behind, lost touch 5th, plodded on to take 3rd last
led, headed 11th, weakening when blundered 4 out
rear, some headway 10th, soon beaten, weakening from 3 out
tracked leaders, led 11th, clear 4 out, ran on well
Around Before, just a pound out of the handicap, can make the most of the weight that he receives from Proper Squire, with Celioso expected to go well despite a break. Around Before is a progressive sort who was in great form over both hurdles and fences last season. Jonjo O'Neill's charge was given a break after scoring at Towcester in October and would have been in need of the outing when fourth behind Proper Squire on his return to action at Stratford just over three weeks ago. He meets Charlie Mann's inmate on well over a stone better terms now, will be fitter, and has the trip more in his favour. Proper Squire was not winning out of turn at the Avon track but is an out-and-out stayer, and as he does not score too often, is worth taking on. Celioso has been a model of consistency and goes well fresh so should be followed this summer whatever happens here, while Three Eagles can give a prominent showing in a first-time visor. Old Eau de Cologne is a shadow of his former self and, with time on his side, Around Before is the pick.
