This looks a competitive but fairly typical Kempton mile handicap where recent all-weather form and track experience are likely to count for plenty. Several arrive in decent shape, but only a few make strong win cases.
The one with the most convincing profile is I’M WORKIN ON IT. Rod Millman’s gelding is thriving at Kempton and comes here chasing a hat-trick after two decisive wins over 7f. Both victories were achieved with authority and the latest success produced a figure already good enough to win a race of this standard. The handicapper has reacted with a 9lb rise, but he remains lightly raced and clearly enjoys the track. The only real question is the step up to a mile, but his running style suggests he should see it out if settling early.
MILETUS rates the most credible threat. He ran a solid race when second at Lingfield last time and shaped like a horse ready to win again. The return to Kempton and a workable draw should allow him to sit close to the pace and challenge late. However, he has had several chances around this sort of mark and may find one too progressive again.
SHIHOKU is another capable runner who should not be ignored. He ran better than the bare result when fourth here in January and has the benefit of stall one, which can be useful over this course and distance. Even so, his overall profile suggests a horse that often runs well without quite finishing the job.
ADVANCING is consistent and usually gives his running, but he looks fairly exposed around this level and may struggle to improve enough to win a race of this nature.
Verdict
A few in with chances, but the most straightforward answer is the progressive I’M WORKIN ON IT, who is thriving at Kempton and looks capable of completing the hat-trick if staying the mile.
Selection: I’M WORKIN ON IT
Main danger: MILETUS
Each-way angle: SHIHOKU