Based on the total ratings, the horses can be ranked as follows:

1. Rocket Rodney (498.1)
2. Changeofmind (IRE) (491.9)
3. Walbank (IRE) (479.9)
4. Silent Words (441.4)
5. Pillow Talk (IRE) (438.9)
6. Great State (420.1)
7. Hispanic (IRE) (397.9)
8. Rogue Spirit (394.4)
9. Katey Kontent (384.8)
10. Looking For Lynda (IRE) (367.7)
11. Michaela’s Boy (IRE) (324.1)

Analysis of Top Contenders

1. Rocket Rodney tops the total ratings list. He is known to perform well in listed/graded events over this trip. Although he was below form during his last outing, his past performance and a strong total rating suggest he’s a strong contender in this race.
2. Changeofmind (IRE) is a close second in the total ratings. He broke the 2-year-old course record at Chester and recently returned from a 10-month absence with a comfortable win. The rating and comments suggest he still has more to give, indicating he could be a serious challenger.
3. Walbank (IRE) takes the third spot in the total ratings. He has a history of good performances over this distance, including a notable win over this course and distance. He’s coming back after a break but is still considered a serious contender.
4. Silent Words ranks fourth in the total ratings. He marked his debut with a win and showed significant improvement in his second race. Although this race poses a bigger challenge, his upward trajectory suggests he could surprise us.
5. Pillow Talk (IRE) is fifth in the total ratings. She had a listed race win at this meeting last season and her performance was respectable at the Norfolk Stakes. Despite the long break, she is expected to return strong.

Additional Considerations

Despite not being in the top five by total ratings, Great State and Hispanic (IRE) should not be overlooked.

• Great State has shown consistent improvement, scoring wins recently and posting good form. Although this race will be a tougher challenge, his recent form warrants respect.
• Hispanic (IRE) showed much improvement when winning his maiden at the Curragh. Despite not making a mark in a listed race at Doncaster, he still holds promise for this season.