Pace Angles:
A weak pace is forecast, favouring those who race prominently or are capable of taking closer order without being overly keen. This setup enhances the chances of SHANDANCER, who can track the leaders, and penalises confirmed hold-up horses like STRIPE OF HONOUR, who risks being left with too much to do.

---

Strongest Contenders:

• THE FLYING POET (IRE) – Promising, Unexposed at Trip
  Remains lightly raced and has shaped like a stayer. Ran well in a tactical affair at Perth where a stiffer test would have suited; the return to 2m7f with more pace potentially in play enhances his claims. Retains upside off this mark.
• HAMMER DAN (IRE) – Proven, Course Specialist
  Dual Worcester winner and solid runner-up over C&D latest. Tactically versatile, stays well and handles all ground. Well drawn to take advantage if things become tactical.
• SHANDANCER (IRE) – Proven, Potential “Go Day” Setup
  Placed in both starts for new yard and was unlucky not to go closer latest (bad error at a crucial time). Has shown he can travel well, and the stable (Newland/Insole) often target this type of contest. Positive jockey booking in Harry Cobden.

---

Main Dangers:

• INDIAN SUNBIRD (IRE) – Progressive, if Backed Up
  Career-best at Southwell last time, though that was off a lower mark and in a slightly weaker field. He did show guts and stamina, and should be considered if market vibes remain strong.
• BALLYVAUGHAN BAY (IRE) – Proven, Reverts to Hurdles
  Better hurdler than chaser, flopped over fences last time but was running creditably prior. Might bounce back in this sphere.
• PALM BEACH (IRE) – Watch Market, Recent Gamble Flopped
  Strongly supported last time but found very little and laboured under pressure. Capable on his day, but risky.

---

Interesting Outsider:

• STRIPE OF HONOUR (IRE) – Poor strike rate but placed in both recent runs. Typically races lazily, which is a concern given the likely race shape, but has been keeping on and now drops in class.

---

Runner Scores and Suitability Analysis:

• The Flying Poet: 8.5/10 – Still improving, well suited to track and trip.
• Hammer Dan: 8/10 – Proven at course and trip, reliable.
• Shandancer: 7.5/10 – Tactical setup suits, recent form solid.
• Indian Sunbird: 7/10 – Stays well, confidence booster last time.
• Ballyvaughan Bay: 6.5/10 – Best form over hurdles, watch if positive market signals.
• Stripe of Honour: 6/10 – Could pick up pieces, but needs a meltdown.
• Palm Beach: 5.5/10 – Regressed, hard to weigh up post-gamble flop.
• Kaproyale: 5/10 – Patchy profile, needs bounce back.
• Getaways Gift: 5/10 – Early days, little form in the book.
• Zuul: 4.5/10 – One-paced, inconsistent.
• Illico De Montave: 3.5/10 – Hard to fancy off long break and poor figures.
• School Days Over: 3/10 – Regressive and with new yard.

Keep an eye on the market for support or big drifts for runners returning from layoffs of 90+ days.

---

Each-Way Angles:

With 12 runners declared, each-way betting is applicable.

• Each-Way Angle: INDIAN SUNBIRD – May be value around 7/1 given he’s a recent winner and stays well.
• Place Sneak: STRIPE OF HONOUR – Lazy type but plugged on twice now and might nick a place if others falter.

---

Private Tissue Estimate:

• The Flying Poet – 9/2
• Hammer Dan – 5/1
• Shandancer – 11/2
• Indian Sunbird – 13/2
• Ballyvaughan Bay – 8/1
• Stripe of Honour – 10/1
• Palm Beach – 10/1
• Kaproyale – 14/1
• Getaways Gift – 16/1
• Zuul – 20/1
• Illico De Montave – 25/1
• School Days Over – 33/1

Market watch advised for runners making their 2nd start.

---

Summary + Smart Play:

A tricky race but THE FLYING POET makes most appeal. He’s been crying out for a stamina test, travels well, and is still open to progress. The value angle is perhaps SHANDANCER, who has run well twice for the Newland team and could now be peaking.

Smart Play:

• Win Selection: THE FLYING POET – well-handicapped and progressive.
• Each-Way Saver: SHANDANCER – unlucky not to go close last time, race should suit.