1

Audience

Some concerns about this first try at 1600m, for a gelding who looks like a 1400m specialist. Seasonal return but won a 1400m G3 from the front at Newmarket on his first 2023 start.

2

Big Rock

Rated the best miler in the world last year, with this 2024 return being for a different stable. Closed down 2023 with a super front-running 6L winning verdict in a 1600m Ascot G1. Good ground or slower would be ideal.

3

Charyn

A dominant winning Listed victory over Doncaster’s straight 1600m, confirming that he is an improved colt this year when quickening from off the pace to win a 1600m Sandown G2 in April.

4

Dear My Friend

Improved since being gelded, and very effective at around 1600m with three 2024 all-weather victories – the best at Lingfield in March.  But a bitterly disappointing favourite in a Newcastle handicap.

5

Flight Plan

Mainly very worthy performances last year, doing best on his final start with a convincing front-running victory in a 1600m G2 at Leopardstown. A tough G1 ask on this return.

6

Hi Royal

His first two G1 assignments were very solid placed efforts, but three much less good G1 runs followed. After wind surgery he ran an encouraging third in a Newmarket G3 on his 2024 return. Others preferred.

7

Poker Face

All three 2023 wins came over this trip, including a comfortable G2 Longchamp victory. A fine second in first-time cheekpieces at Sandown last month. Good or slower ground preferred.

8

Real World

Well-travelled, his last ten starts having been outside the UK including a victory in Bahrain in March but not needing to be at his best to win that. This looks very challenging.

9

Royal Scotsman

Returns from a 333-day absence but has delivered some high-class performances after a break before. Disappointing on his last two 2023 starts so with something to prove.

10

Witch Hunter

Has won four of his 26 starts with his typically late closing tactics resulting in victory in a 1400m G2 here last August. Minor claims only but a strong gallop would help.

11

Inspiral

Absolutely brilliant on her day, boasting six G1 victories latterly when her terrific acceleration resulted in a 2000m G1 at Santa Anita last November. Missed this race last year due to a muscle problem but a very major player this year.