1

Ancient Rome

Thrived since moving from France last year, notably when landing a huge 1600m prize at Kentucky Downs. Returns from a 262-day absence but talented and this trip looks fine.

2

Bold Discovery

Back from an absence (which suits) and having been gelded to bravely rally after being headed when winning a 1600m Leopardstown G3. Wants a good or fast surface.

3

Checkandchallenge

Back in 2022 he beat a subsequent G1 winner over 1600m G3 at Deauville. Couldn’t handle G1 company at Longchamp last time, and this class drop looks appropriate.

4

Astro King

So far his wins have come in maiden or handicap (including a very prestigious one) company, though he was a close second in an 1800m G3 at Newmarket in April.

5

Botanical

Is improving judged by his impressive winning performance in a York handicap on last month’s 2024 return. No trip worries and worth this first try in Listed company.

6

Cemhaan

Plenty of success in handicap company. He is versatile in terms of surface but may not be quick enough for this drop in trip and in Listed company. Sometimes leads.

7

Certain Lad

Now eight but a real racing enthusiast and has proven that he can handle G3 company in 2024, with a good fourth and second at Newbury and Sandown respectively.

8

Haunted Dream

Effective at this trip and his run at Epsom last month was encouraging considering he almost unseated his rider leaving the stalls, still managing to finish a close fourth.

9

Israr

Near misses in G3 and G2 company in four of his last five starts, most recently only mown down late on by a classy looking type in a Chester G2. Effective at this trip.

10

Knight

First time at this trip, having run modestly on his only start this season. All his career runs on a slow surface including close seconds in G2 and Listed company in 2023.

11

Mujtaba

His wins have come in novice or handicap company. Couldn’t handle G3 company on his penultimate start, but only just beaten in Goodwood Listed company last time.

12

Notre Belle Bete

Ran pretty well in an Epsom handicap on his only 2024 start. However, this looks difficult especially as his record at Ascot is not very good.

13

Ouzo

Dead-heated for a 1600m Ascot handicap last September, and then won two 1800m handicaps at Meydan earlier this year. This trip should be okay for this tough veteran.

14

Savvy Victory

Last of 16 in this in 2023 but bouncing back quicky when responding to strong pressure to win a Listed event over a similar trip to this at Sandown. Gelded since his last start.

15

Silver Sword

From a stable that sent out a shock winner at Sandown on Saturday, and he would be a shock winner also, having been well beaten on his latest start.

16

Torito

A slightly unlucky fourth in a G3 over this trip here last year, only returning when a solid third at Newmarket last month. Could easily progress further and surely has chances.