The Flexjet Pat Eddery Stakes has attracted an intriguing field of ten juveniles, mixing proven Pattern performers with several unbeaten colts who remain open to significant improvement. While there is no standout Group-class performer, this looks a solid Listed contest in which normal progression from one of the lightly raced runners could prove decisive.

Richard Hannon’s Sonny Parvenue makes plenty of appeal after making a winning debut at Salisbury. He showed both pace and determination that day, regaining the lead after being headed and suggesting that today’s step up to seven furlongs will suit. The Salisbury form has begun to receive encouragement, and with Hannon boasting an excellent recent record in this race, he is a worthy favourite and the one with the greatest scope for improvement.

Silver Dominion sets the standard on established form. He narrowly won a Newbury novice before running an honourable fourth in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket, finishing ahead of several of today’s rivals. That performance represents the strongest proven form in the field, although he may not possess quite the same untapped potential as some of the less exposed runners.

Owen Burrows’ Gymbaazy is perhaps the most interesting alternative. A 22-1 winner on debut at Sandown, he overcame inexperience and traffic problems before producing a strong late finish to prevail in the closing strides. The form has yet to advertise itself, but the manner of his victory suggested there is considerably more to come, and he looks capable of taking a sizeable step forward.

Alfred Wallace has already gained valuable experience in Listed and Group company. His fifth in the July Stakes was respectable and leaves him closely matched with Silver Dominion, although he still needs to produce a career-best performance if he is to land Listed honours.

Among the remainder, Treasurer arrives after a convincing Salisbury novice success and shapes as though seven furlongs will suit. Dandyman Dan has not been disgraced in stronger company and could appreciate this longer trip after finishing well over shorter distances. Firehorse and Time For The Moon are unbeaten novice winners with potential, but both have more to prove at this level, while Love Is, the sole filly in the field, receives the 5 lb sex allowance and is capable of being competitive if finding improvement. Kach Above has progressed well through maiden and nursery company but faces a much sterner examination.

Tactically, there is no obvious guaranteed front-runner, which raises the possibility of a steadily run affair where positioning and a turn of foot become important. Ascot’s demanding final furlong should still reward those able to see the trip out strongly.

Private Ratings (Projected)

Horse| Rating
Sonny Parvenue| 100
Silver Dominion| 98
Gymbaazy| 96
Alfred Wallace| 95
Treasurer| 94
Dandyman Dan| 94
Time For The Moon| 92
Firehorse| 92
Love Is| 91
Kach Above| 91

Private Race Rating: 98

Verdict

This looks a competitive rather than exceptional renewal, with the balance between proven Pattern form and potential likely to decide the outcome. Silver Dominion has already achieved the highest level on the racecourse, but Sonny Parvenue has the profile of a colt capable of surpassing that form with normal second-start improvement and is narrowly preferred. Gymbaazy rates the value alternative, while Alfred Wallace appeals as the most solid option for those seeking consistency.

Predicted 1-2-3:

1. Sonny Parvenue
2. Silver Dominion
3. Gymbaazy