Based on Timeform insights and race dynamics. It’s a fierce 22-runner field with plenty of angles, and the strong pace forecast could seriously shift the balance toward late movers.


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Strongest Contender: FAVOUR AND FORTUNE (Alan King / Tom Cannon)

Adjusted TFR: 154
This horse thrives off a burn-up, and the projected strong pace screams suitability. He’s a course winner, and although well beaten in the Morebattle at Kelso, he was off the bridle a long way out and never travelled—chalk that up to an unsuited track. Key profile comments:

“Travels strongly… useful hurdler… Scottish Champion Hurdle winner.”

With conditions in favour and a return to a flat, galloping track, he could power through late in a race where closers will be seen to best effect.



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Main Dangers:

IMPOSE TOI (Nicky Henderson / Nico de Boinville)

Adjusted TFR: 150
Runner-up in the Coral Cup and looked to improve again for the cheekpieces. Strong traveller with stamina for this trip. Timeform says:

“Progressed further… strong traveller… stays 21f.”
Definite class angle and one who should sit mid-div before being delivered late—ideal tactics for this setup.


TINTINTIN (Fergal O’Brien / J Burke)

Adjusted TFR: 155
Eye-catching in the Imperial Cup, closing fast and shaping as if this longer trip will suit. Reliable and battle-hardened. From the Timeform spotlight:

“Reliable type… closing all the way to the line… one likely to run well again.”
If ridden patiently, he could be storming home late.


BE AWARE (Dan Skelton / Harry Skelton)

Adjusted TFR: 150
Strong form when second to Burdett Road at Cheltenham and shaped better than result in the Coral Cup. Note from Timeform:

“Did well under circumstances… came from further back than winner and third.”
The strong pace setup could be just what he needs for a big run.


WRECKLESS ERIC (O’Neill Jr. / Jonjo O’Neill)

Adjusted TFR: 153
Another eye-catcher, second in the Imperial Cup finishing powerfully. Lightly raced, improving, and the profile screams “Group 2 handicapper in waiting.”

“Shaped very well… just failing after finishing strongly… one to note.”



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Other Notes of Interest:

WESTERN WALK is a horse of interest with a “much better than result” profile LTO; will relish the strong pace.

KOPECK DE MEE has the W.P. Mullins/McCoy Walsh combo and class form in France but bombed on UK debut—still has upside if forgiven.

OFF THE JURY is quirky but talented, shaped well last time and might be underestimated again.



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Race Dynamics Summary:

Pace Forecast: Strong

Bias: Will favour hold-up horses with proven late kick and staying power. Front-runners could set it up for the closers.



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Verdict (In Grouping Terms):

Strongest Contender (Top Rating):
Favour and Fortune (Perfect pace setup, strong closer)

Main Dangers (Within ~5lbs):
Impose Toi, Be Aware, Tintintin, Wreckless Eric

Solid E/W Types (~5–8lbs off top):
Western Walk, Off The Jury, Blenkinsop