1

Zakouski

Lightly raced, but stable vibes strongly suggested he would win that handicap here last month. He took time to wind up but once in full flow he accelerated nicely and won impressively. Looks a serious player here.

2

Mythical Magic

Although he got a better trip than some of his rivals he still showed impressive acceleration to win this G2 last year. Didn’t figure in two G1’s back in the UK but this became the obvious target after his good 2nd in a G2 here last month.

3

Golden Jaguar

Challenged late to win over 1400m here about a year ago. Late last year he ran two solid races – at Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi but on ratings appears to have a difficult task in this G2 contest.

4

Zainhom

Dane O’Neill’s mount has plenty to find on the ratings. A big, heavy horse he has a low winning strike-rate and, though very effective at this trip, it will be surprising if he makes a big impact.

5

Salute The Soldier

Gained narrow but courageous handicap wins at Goodwood and Ascot last year. Also made a winning debut for his Dubai stable when landing a handicap over this trip here last month. Admittedly, he had an ideal trip that day.

6

Eqtiraan

A big horse who looked very promising early in his career. However there have been plenty of disappointments and recent efforts don’t bode well for this G2 assignment.

7

Dream Castle

In great form at last year’s Carnival winning three straight races including a G1 over 1800m. There were some subsequent disappointments – including in Australia – but his 2nd in a G2 here in January represented a return to form.