Expert Analysis

A rather disappointing turnout in terms of numbers, but still an intriguing contest, and one that probably required a borderline-smart performance to land the prize, if a bit behind those put up by Chindit (rated 113) and Threat (114) in the last two years and further still behind Too Darn Hot (120) in 2018. The pace was steady for a long way, with a finishing speed in the 105% region. The initial assessment is in line with race standards (adjusted for margins between horses, field size and other factors) but may need to be revisited in the light of subsequent events.  

BAYSIDE BOY (112 here, 98 previously) can be credited with a smart performance, one of the better ones by a 2-y-o to this point, probably better suited by the test of speed than his main rival but doing well to come from a couple of lengths down (a bit slowly into his stride then held up), getting up under pressure near the finish. The signs are that he could prove to be a miler in his classic season.

REACH FOR THE MOON (111 here, 114 previously) was beaten at odds on but probably ran close to his best in a race that did not play to his strengths, dictating the pace and winding it up from halfway, seeing off one rival under pressure but passed by another close home. 8f will suit him better this season, and likely further than that next, and he still has some potential despite now having run five times.

TWILIGHT JET (107 here, 103 previously) appeared to run well, helped by the test of speed at the trip, racing freely in second but quickening to challenge in the penultimate 1f, held close home. This may be as far as he stays, but he is useful on previous bits of form and not just this one.

LUSAIL (101 here, 113 previously) ran a lacklustre race, tracking the pace but niggled by halfway and outpaced soon after. He is better judged on his previous form, which is about 12 lb better.