Video Stars
Race 5 No 1 ORIENTAL SMOKE
He wasn’t disgraced in his first start back in Class 4 last time out. After settling off the pace from a wide draw, he ran on strongly late to finish fourth over 1400m.
Rising to 1600m shouldn’t be an issue for him, as he has been placed over 1800m previously. With impressive stats in this class, he is a contender who cannot be overlooked.
Race 8 No 10 ARMOUR WAR EAGLE
Unlike his usual racing style of settling back and charging home late, he adopted a more positive tactic last time, settling just off the speed. However, a three-wide trip took its toll, and he had little left in the tank entering the straight.
Dropping to 1400m should suit him better, as his previous form suggests, and with better luck in running, he’s expected to deliver an improved performance.
Sectional Stars
Race 2 No 6 LINK
He delivered his best performance to date last time out, posting the third-fastest final 400m (23.12 seconds) to finish fourth over 1400m. Had he jumped cleanly, he likely would have finished in the Top 3. Given that effort, he’s worth another chance this week.
Race 10 No 3 MICKLEY
Boasting strong form in the UK, including a win in this year’s Britannia Stakes, he made significant ground in the straight on his local debut three weeks ago, finishing two lengths behind the winner in fourth place over 1400m. The step up to a mile for his second-up run suits him well, and he should be well-placed to secure a Top 3 finish.
