Pace Forecast: Strong – Likely a well-run race.

Pace Angle: Normally not ideal for hold-up types here, but strong pace could bring closers into play. Timeform note SIR EDWARD LEAR may be vulnerable late on to a finisher like CHARMING WHISPER.



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Leading Contenders

SIR EDWARD LEAR (James Owen / Harry Davies)

Recent form: Close second on return at Windsor (10f, good to firm) off a break, shaping as though more to come.

Profile: Fairly unexposed, could well improve now fully fit.

Pace Tactic: Usually prominent – ideal here.

Smart Stat: Trainer profitable with solo runners at Flat meetings.

Rating: 8.5/10


SATURN FIVE (IRE) (Charlie Fellowes / Mikkel Mortensen)

Recent form: Eye-catching 4th at Chester last time in higher grade; held up too far back.

Profile: Lightly raced for age, second run back after long absence.

Pace Setup: Strong gallop could bring him into it late.

Rating: 8/10


SHOW BIZ KID (IRE) (Julia & Shelley Birkett / Daniel Muscutt)

Course form: C&D winner in April, followed up with a close 2nd at Pontefract.

Consistency: Solid form in similar company. Ground suits.

Tactics: Races handy.

Rating: 7.5/10



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Each-Way and Value Angles

CHARMING WHISPER (Philip McBride / Rossa Ryan)

Comment: Has shown ability in deeper races; best excused last run at Newmarket when poorly placed.

Setup: Likely to be held up, but strong pace suits.

Rating: 7/10

Each-Way Note: Can pick up pieces late – value if market dismisses.


COOLREE (IRE) (Lemos De Souza / Luke Morris)

Profile: Back to form with a win at Beverley latest; has responded well to blinkers/tongue tie.

Tactic: Suited by strong pace – one-run closer.

Rating: 7/10


FORCA TIMAO (IRE) (Mark Pattinson / Stevie Donohoe)

Last win: Dominant at Southwell over this trip; now switched to turf.

Consideration: Should go forward or sit handy; unknown on turf since 2023.

Rating: 6.5/10



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Notables/Place Possibilities

DIDAAR (IRE): Well-backed last time but had an irregular heartbeat. Capable but risky. (Rating: 6/10)

CORUNDUM: Consistent AW performer, ground may help, place angle. (Rating: 6.5/10)

SOLANNA: Solid on AW this winter. Usually races close up. (Rating: 6/10)



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Hold-Up Risk or Vulnerable Profiles

DARK LYRIC (IRE): Useful back form but very poor return run. (Rating: 4/10)

LECHUGA LAD: Didn’t stay 14f last time but remains one-paced. (Rating: 4.5/10)

SOLAR SAVING (IRE): Long absence and unknowns; likely outpaced. (Rating: 3/10)

WOODSTOCK CITY: Can go forward but has faded twice lately. (Rating: 5/10)

OBSIDIAN KNIGHT: Better on AW, poor turf record. (Rating: 4.5/10)



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Each-Way Possibilities (8+ runners)

CHARMING WHISPER

SATURN FIVE

COOLREE

All three fit well with pace scenario and current marks.



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Private Tissue Estimate

SIR EDWARD LEAR – 4/1

SATURN FIVE – 11/2

SHOW BIZ KID – 6/1

CHARMING WHISPER – 8/1

COOLREE – 9/1

FORCA TIMAO – 10/1

DIDAAR / CORUNDUM / SOLANNA – 12/1

Others – 20/1+