1

Bye Bye Melvin

Fast from the gate, he led for most of the trip in a 2400m G1 at Belmont At The Big A last month, but could not handle the late surge of War Like Goddess. Hard to imagine that he can win this.

2

War Like Goddess

Has past winning form over this course and distance, but it was her stylish defeat of six rivals in a Belmont At The Big A G1 over this trip last month that indicated that she is a serious candidate for this big prize.

3

Stone Age

Stable with a fine record in this and this Irish-trained colt already has US experience, with two good efforts in G1’s including a close third on a fast Belmont Park surface. Usually a pace-setter.

4

Broome

Despite a slow start – a problem for him sometimes – he only narrowly failed to win this race (at Del Mar) last year. Has struggled on slow ground in European G1’s on his recent starts. This quicker surface will help.

5

Rebel’s Romance

Has thrived since switching to a turf surface and up to this trip. Has won his last four starts including two G1’s in Germany, coming with a strong surge from the rear each time. Chance.

6

Channel Maker

A G2 winner over this course and distance back in April, and more recently a Belmont Park winner. The anticipated quick surface will suit but a few of these rivals may be too quick.

7

Nations Pride

Disappointed in the Derby at Epsom in June but has thrived since racing in the US, including a G1 victory at Saratoga and a runaway win in a G3 at Belmont At The Big A in September. A strong candidate.

8

Master Piece

Delivered a personal best when outspeeding his rivals in a G2 over 1800m at Del Mar in July. Appears to stay this longer trip, but probably better over shorter.

9

Gold Phoenix

Some good efforts on a fast turf surface in California, but a slightly disappointing favourite when third – lacking decisive acceleration – in a 2000m Santa Anita G2 last month.

10

Red Knight

Gradually improved from the back and once in front held off some strong challengers to win a fast-ground G2 over this trip at Kentucky Down in September. Not so good here subsequently.

11

Mishriff

Struggled on very slow ground in the Arc at Longchamp but this versatile seven times winner has delivered some brilliant performances in his career. An accomplished traveller, but having his first US run on this final intended start.

12

Nautilus

A very effective performer in Brazil, including a defeat of 13 rivals in a G1 on a heavy turf surface at Gavea in June. But will probably struggle against some of these classy opponents.

13

Highland Chief

Vulnerable at the highest level when trained in the UK. But, battling hard, landed a Belmont Park G1 in May. Also won a G3 over this course and distance last month. His trainer has won this race before.