Analysis:

1. Aurora Dawn (IRE) – Total rating of 290.0: Aurora Dawn leads the field in terms of total ratings and comes off a strong win in a big-field handicap at Newmarket. She’s in prime form, having been well-treated under a 6lb penalty and could be a force to reckon with in today’s race. Given her most recent performance and the high total rating, Aurora Dawn is the top contender for this race.
2. Pearl Eye – Total rating of 282.7: Pearl Eye had a solid nursery debut last year and has continued to perform well this year, both on AW and turf. This horse showed staying power at 7f and is expected to do well at 1m. Though blinkers are off this time, Pearl Eye’s solid total rating and consistent form make him the second most likely contender.
3. Whatacracker – Total rating of 270.3: Whatacracker’s rating takes into account a strong speed rating, despite a poor performance at Beverley last month. The trainer has an excellent record in May, and it wouldn’t be surprising if this horse significantly improves in this race. Still, Whatacracker is somewhat of a wildcard and ranks third in this assessment.
4. Masterpainter (IRE) – Total rating of 253.5: Masterpainter has had a shaky start to this season, but the drop back to 1m could be beneficial. The application of first-time blinkers may provide a new stimulus for this horse to rediscover its past form. Though the recent performances have been less than stellar, Masterpainter’s total rating gives a reason to remain optimistic.
5. Mahboobah (IRE) – Total rating of 252.5: Mahboobah started her career promisingly but has struggled to match her initial form in recent races. The introduction of first-time cheekpieces suggests the trainer is trying to coax a better performance. Mahboobah’s total rating places her just behind Masterpainter, indicating that she has the potential to compete, but needs to turn her form around.

The top contenders based on total ratings are Aurora Dawn, Pearl Eye, Whatacracker, Masterpainter, and Mahboobah. However, considering the comments, Pearly Star and Fools Gambit could potentially surprise. Pearly Star has shown ability despite not being obviously well treated and could improve on her handicap debut. Fools Gambit, meanwhile, has had a stable change and this race provides a more realistic opportunity for him. Despite the lower total ratings, they could be the dark horses in this race.

The race looks set to be a competitive one, with the ratings suggesting a strong performance from Aurora Dawn and Pearl Eye. However, the likes of Pearly Star and Fools Gambit could potentially upset the order based on their improvement potential.