This is a straightforward Class 5 on paper, and the data backs that up. The TimeWise Master ratings are clear – this revolves around Me Tarzan and Straight A, with the rest needing to find chunks of improvement.
The key angle here is pace.
Comment Shaper flags Me Tarzan as the sole front runner, and crucially, not a strong one – but in a small field with limited early pressure, that often doesn’t matter. If he gets an uncontested lead, he controls the race. At Kempton over 7f, that’s a big edge.
Timeform echoes the same point: a steady pace will suit him. His recent Lingfield run (beaten under a length) suggests he’s back in form, and he’s running off the same mark. This looks like a deliberate setup.
The obvious danger is Straight A. He’s the most solid horse in the race – consistent, tactically versatile, and a strong finisher. If Me Tarzan overcooks it or gets taken on early, Straight A is the one who picks up the pieces. The issue is whether the race will be run to suit. On the evidence, probably not.
Tattie Bogle sits third on ratings and fits the prominent profile, but he’s exposed and has a habit of weakening when it matters. He looks more likely to trade well in-running than actually win.
Of the rest, Our Dagger is interesting on old all-weather form, but everything about the setup is against him – likely to be slowly away in a race with no collapse. The yard switch adds another layer of guesswork.
The others look outclassed or out of form.
This race should be decided by positioning rather than finishing power. If Me Tarzan gets his own way up front, they may not catch him.
Verdict
Me Tarzan (IRE) is the one. He has the ratings edge, the pace angle, and arrives in form.
Straight A is the only realistic threat if things don’t go to plan.
Strength: STRONG