The market has latched onto Switchel (3/1) and Solanna (10/3) as the most likely winners, but there’s an argument to be made for siding with Solanna, who may be the best fit for this tactical affair.

The Strongest Contender – Solanna (10/3)

Solanna has been holding his form well, and his latest second at Chelmsford came in a race that wasn’t run to suit. He was caught in a messy sprint for the line but still went down by just a neck. Crucially, he’s shown he can quicken off a slow pace, which could be essential here given the “Very Weak” pace forecast. With a strong Chelmsford record and proven form at the trip, he looks primed to go one better, especially under Daniel Muscutt, who knows how to judge the fractions on the AW.


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The Market Sleeper – Palazzo Persico (15/2)

The market seems to have dismissed Palazzo Persico, but his Chelmsford record reads better than his latest run suggests. His poor effort last time came when he was trapped wide and never able to settle. Two starts back, he ran a more competitive fourth at Southwell in a race where the leaders were not for catching. His previous Chelmsford win in December over this trip showed he’s capable when things fall right. At 15/2, he’s being overlooked, but his profile suggests he’s a live player if the prominent pair falter.


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Verdict:

Top Selection: Solanna (10/3) – Strong recent form, tactical speed, and track suitability.

Value Angle: Palazzo Persico (15/2) – Underestimated and capable of bouncing back.


With a weak pace expected, this could turn into a sprint from the turn. Backing the horses best positioned to capitalise on that scenario looks the right play.