This looks a strong renewal on paper, but it could pay to take a sharper view of progression curves and tactical dynamics, particularly given the likely steady early pace which could bring prominent racers to the fore.

SAINT ANAPOLINO has done little wrong in recent months and deserves credit for his improving profile. His three-race winning streak has seen him travel well and put races to bed with authority, and he did so again over this C&D last time, dictating at the right time and seeing it out strongly despite a 10lb rise across wins. He’s clearly still ahead of his mark and is proven in small fields. That said, he’s priced with little margin for error now, and with a slight question over how much further progression is left off this revised rating, the value might lie elsewhere in a market that’s still taking shape.

One that could have gone under the radar is DOUBLE POWERFUL, who was desperately unlucky not to bring up a seven-timer at Ascot last time out. He was poorly positioned in a slowly-run race but made up significant ground late—remarkably so given the tactical setup. That effort can be marked up considerably, and he now returns after a short break with an unchanged mark and a race that may play more to his strengths this time, with fewer rivals to navigate around. His profile—hard fit, consistent, and still open to progress—makes him look overpriced in the early market.

ASTON MARTINI is another of interest. A lightly-raced mare who ran a career best when second in a hot Ascot handicap last time, she shaped as though the step back up in trip could suit better, and first-time cheekpieces could eke out a bit more efficiency late on. The Henderson team are 22% at Kempton in recent seasons and have a solid record when applying headgear for the first time.

One more to keep an eye on is CLASSIC KING, who has quietly put together some solid efforts and was closing late in a deeper race last time. He was giving weight to some improving types and still stuck on gamely. With Ben Jones booked and a trainer who places his hurdlers well, this one may represent some back-end value at double-figure odds.

Verdict:

• Most likely winner: DOUBLE POWERFUL 4/1 – strong form, value angle, and nothing to prove in this company.
• Value shortlist: ASTON MARTINI 4/1, CLASSIC KING 4/1 – both capable in a race that could favour their running styles and profiles.