IN SUMMARY: If given a soft lead then the one they’ll all have to peg back is Midnight Tune and she’s respected, but preference is for JESTER JET. She has proven highly progressive since being stepped up in trip, running a mighty race when third at Cheltenham on her latest start. She’s now four pounds higher but that can be negated by a return to mares’ company and she should be very tough to beat for in form connections.
1 MIDNIGHT TOUR – Progressed well since joining this yard, a solid third behind a pair of very smart mares over this course and distance last time. Conditions are fine and she may find this easier back in handicap company. Leading claims under seven pound claimer Kevin Dowling.
2 RONS DREAM – Impressive when winning a Listed race at Warwick in February, she has not got close to that form since. Trip and ground suits her perfectly but she has not shown enough in recent starts to suggest she is capable of playing a role.
3 TREACKLE TART – Progressive handicapper but found out at a better level last time over this course and distance. Looks to have plenty on her plate now despite being back in handicap grade and others are preferred on balance.
4 JESTER JET – Progressed quickly since being stepped up to this trip, including on soft ground when last seen. She ran a huge race in defeat last time in a similarly competitive race, a four pound higher mark to contend with now. Back against her own sex so the extra burden should be within her powers and she looks tough to beat.
5 MIDNIGHT TUNE – Has really stepped up this season in a pair of starts at Wincanton. She was in front of a number of these on the first of those occasions despite being unconsidered by most. She does her best work from the front so a soft lead would give her a chance of making the frame once more. Has to be respected.
6 LOVES DESTINATION – Front runner nearly executed those tactics to perfection at Sandown last time. She may find that more difficult in this field with a number of others who like to go from the front. Her stamina is unproven, yet to go beyond 2m 6f so others have more pressing claims.