1

Astronomer

Always close to the speed when winning over course and distance in August 2023. Another big Del Mar show – with some of these rivals behind him – when second here in July.

2

Halfway Line

Plenty of success with a front-running profile when trained in France. Only three runs in the US so far but seems to be adapting well judging by his course and distance here win in July.

3

Du Jour

Looks a potent contender having won this last year enjoying a good passage and quickening clear. There have been some less fiery efforts also – including here in July – but chances.

4

Almendares

Justified favouritism when landing a claiming race over this course and distance last December, subsequently going close to G2 glory at Santa Anita. Prospects if back in that shape.

5

Lammas

Has thrived since moving to Northern California and is now on a four-race winning streak going back to February. He meets different rivals in Southern California but is respected.

6

Irideo

Came close to a big shock win – especially as he was way behind at half-way – in a 1600m G1 win at Santa Anita last year. Otherwise, it is hard to make a case out for him here.

7

Flashiest

Will encounter some of the rivals that he met in a competitive Listed race over this course and distance in July, running a solid third. Not an obvious candidate for the winners’ money.

8

Conclude

Will have hopes here if he can rediscover his Del Mar form of 2023 when he was a perfect two from two, including landing the G2 Del Mar Derby.

9

First Peace

Veteran rider Mike Smith has enjoyed plenty of win and place success on this classy colt who had some of these rivals struggling behind him in a strong Listed race here in July. A player.

10

Exaulted

His supporters will hope to see him produce some brilliant form of 2023 including a 1600m G1 win at Santa Anita, then a fast-finishing second behind Du Jour in this race.