held up, effort under pressure 6th, weakened 3 out
raced keenly, led to 3 out, weakened quickly
in touch, mistake and behind from 4th, tailed off
tracked leader, led 3 out, ridden clear before next, eased flat
held up, headway to chase leaders approaching 3 out, stayed on under pressure flat to take 2nd near finish, no chance with winner
always behind, ridden and struggling 6th, tailed off
held up, ridden and weakened 6th, tailed off when pulled up approaching 2 out
held up, headway to chase leaders after 6th, mistake and weakened 3 out, 4th when beaten when tried to refuse last
prominent, weakened and behind after 4th, pulled up approaching 7th
close up, effort 6th, chased winner 3 out, no impression before next, lost 2nd near finish
A decent hurdle which could be taken by Qabas although Fundamental and Fontanesi are just two of a major set of dangers. Peter Bowen's charge has improved leaps and bounds this season and with the Pembrokeshire trainer unafraid of taking on quality opposition, it is highly likely that Qabas has been aimed for this race and we shall take the hint. Fundamental likes to make the running and will probably do so here. A progressiver performer last term, he may be inconvenienced if Fontanesi attempts to take him on early doors. Flying Spirit is admirable but the cut in the ground has to be a concern. Connections are also reapplying cheekpieces. Galtee View has been busy in Irish handicaps this summer while Edmo Yewkay has an absence to overcome but is at least likely to fully appreciate today's conditions. Proud Peer is stepped up in class and open to improvement. A trappy race in which Qabas is selected on account of recent racecourse performances.
