1. Race Conditions and Pace/Draw Angle

A small-field Listed contest over 1m3f218y on soft ground. With no draw bias evident over this trip on the round course, positional tactics and pace shape are key. The pace forecast is very weak, suggesting a tactical affair. Notably, prominent racers are usually disadvantaged here at this trip, but the lack of a gallop may invert that usual dynamic. Those typically held up, like Raja Raja, may struggle to settle or get a clean run if the tempo stays dawdling, while Hamish, who races prominently, may be well placed if allowed to control early fractions.


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2. Contenders, Dangers, Outsiders, and Notable Comments

HAMISH (TFR 127) – Strongest contender
The class act in the field. A 9-y-o but no evidence of decline based on last year’s performances, which included a Listed win at the Curragh and a Group 1 second in the Coronation Cup behind Luxembourg. Proven fresh (won on seasonal debut last 4 years), handles soft ground, stays further, and has tactical versatility. With no pace on, his prominent style may give him first run.
🔎 Timeform: “No diminution of powers… the one to beat with conditions to suit.”

MILITARY ACADEMY (TFR 123) – Main danger
Lightly raced and open to more improvement for the Gosdens. Won a Kempton Listed comfortably in 2024 and wasn’t disgraced at Group 3 level in Bahrain last time when lacking the strong pace he needs. Cheekpieces retained. Has tactical speed but likely wants a stronger gallop.
📈 Trainer strike rate over 10f+ sits at 21%.

PALLADIUM (GER) (TFR 122) – Danger if fully tuned
German Derby winner last season before a tame effort behind Rebel’s Romance in Group 1 company. Sold and now with the Gosdens, he scored over hurdles at Huntingdon in January. Clearly talented but returns off 136 days and has a bit to prove after mixed results on the flat. Another who might need a stronger pace than this race offers.

BOLSTER (TFR 125) – Interesting outsider
Well-exposed but consistent and adaptable on soft ground. Raced prominently in most wins, including in Listed company at Newmarket in 2024. Likely to be one of the pace angles, which could help his cause here. Looked in need of the run at Chester behind The Foxes last month and expected to strip fitter now.

GALASHIELS (IRE) (TFR 117) – Place prospects
Previously trained by André Fabre and was consistent in French Listed races, albeit never quite top class. Sold for 220,000gns and makes stable debut after 219 days off. Stays well and handles soft but may lack tactical speed and arrives from a non-firing yard.

RAJA RAJA (TFR 98+) – Unlikely to feature
Won a Class 5 handicap on the AW last year but completely outclassed in the Aston Park Stakes on return. Often slowly away and held up. The strong pace he typically needs is missing here, and he’s rated stone+ below the field. 80/1 for a reason.


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3. Runner Ratings out of 10

Hamish – 9/10 – Outstanding record fresh; handles the ground; pace could suit.

Military Academy – 7/10 – Talented, lightly raced, but may need a true pace.

Palladium – 6/10 – Strong on past Group 1 form; needs to show more after hurdle switch.

Bolster – 7/10 – Could be suited by the pace; handles soft; likely fitter now.

Galashiels – 5/10 – Ability shown in France; long absence and new yard are concerns.

Raja Raja – 2/10 – Out of his depth and unfavoured by the pace set-up.


⚠️ Market watch advised for Palladium and Galashiels, both returning from absences of 90+ days. Any notable support or drifts could be telling.


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4. Each-Way Angles

No each-way betting advice given – field size is 6 (less than 8 runners).


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5. Private Tissue Estimate (100% Book)

Hamish – 11/8

Military Academy – 7/2

Palladium – 9/2

Bolster – 6/1

Galashiels – 10/1

Raja Raja – 50/1



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6. Summary

This small but select field centres on Hamish, who looks well placed to make a winning return given his form at this level, strong record fresh, and suitability to a slowly-run contest. Military Academy remains progressive but might want more pace, while Palladium is a Group 1 winner needing to prove his flat credentials again after a winter hurdle campaign. Bolster could run above odds if allowed to dominate. Keep a close watch on market signals for Galashiels and Palladium off layoffs, but Hamish is the standard bearer here.