Expert Analysis

Not the strongest of renewals, and the winner’s performance is a couple of pounds below the level usually required for a Group 2, but he took it on merit at the end of a race that was run at a generous gallop, his finishing speed being a slightly slow 98.7% according to TPD sectionals. The time was only 0.15s (a length) quicker than the 2-y-o Bayside Boy managed in a steadily run Champagne Stakes earlier.

GLORIOUS JOURNEY (113 here and previously) had conditions right up his street and ran as well as he ever has to gain his third career win at this level, racing in fourth before moving to the front readily 2f out, edging right shortly after but responding generously to pressure, pushed out near to the line. He is capable of very useful form at 6f but a well-run 7f is just about ideal.

D’BAI (109 here and previously) duly benefited from his recent return, back to form having been steadied early and rather squeezed his way through 2f out, like the winner edging right but running on.

LANEQASH (106 here, 113 previously) could not quite repeat his Newbury form, which came after a lengthy break, but was not discredited, tracking in third until disputing the lead for a while around 2f out, a bit short of room late on.

OH THIS IS US (100 here, 103 previously) showed a glimmer of a return to form (rated 111 going back a bit further), keeping on from the rear but never a threat.

RHYTHM MASTER (98 here, 107 previously) has found life tough in Group races this year, this below his Jersey Stakes form, close up but already struggling when bumped well over 1f out.

DANYAH (98 here, 111 previously) disappointed, his handicap form entitling him to go close, quite free in the lead and soon beaten when headed 2f out.