A fascinating small-field contest where tactics will be crucial, and there’s potential for a market misjudgment.

📊 Market Leaders: Pay The Piper (11/8), Primoz (11/8)

💡 Value Potential: Escapeandevade (10/3)


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🚀 Strongest Contender: PAY THE PIPER (11/8)

A proven performer at Kelso, Pay The Piper boasts a strong profile with a pair of comfortable CD victories last autumn, one of which was a commanding 6-length win over a reliable yardstick in Gold des Bois. His latest run—a 3rd behind the progressive Harper’s Brook at Wetherby—was better than it appears, as he was forced to race at an unsuitable tempo in a tactical affair.

He’s battle-tested in competitive handicaps and crucially handles all ground conditions. The application of cheekpieces today looks a positive move to sharpen him up. With Danny McMenamin aboard—who knows him well and rides Kelso superbly—Pay The Piper is the one they all have to beat.


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💎 Overlooked by the Market: ESCAPEANDEVAE (10/3)

The market may be underestimating Escapeandevade, who, despite recent below-par efforts, could be set for a revival with first-time blinkers. A dual CD winner, he recorded an impressive hat-trick last season, including a decisive win here at Kelso. His front-running style is well-suited to this sharp track, and with only three rivals, he may be able to dictate the pace from the front.

Brian Hughes, a master tactician in small fields, is an eye-catching booking. If the blinkers reignite his enthusiasm, he could be difficult to peg back, especially if Pay The Piper and Primoz end up marking each other rather than chasing him down early.


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❓ Concerns Over PRIMOZ (11/8)

Primoz won well on his chasing debut, beating Pay The Piper, but has since struggled to build on that promise. His latest third at Ayr was an improvement, but he remains unproven beyond 2 miles. With Kelso’s stiff finish and Escapeandevade likely to make it a test from the front, stamina doubts could resurface.


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🏇 Verdict (Hugh Taylor Style):

🎯 Strongest Contender: Pay The Piper (11/8) – Consistent, reliable, and proven at the track.

💡 Market Value Pick: Escapeandevade (10/3) – Could dominate from the front if the blinkers have the desired effect.


With just four runners, no each-way play, but a win on Pay The Piper looks justified. For those seeking a value angle, Escapeandevade is the one the market may be underestimating.