Expert Analysis

A slightly muddling affair in that the pace was steady until halfway, then fast, before an ordinary end (winner’s final 2f finishing speed of 103% is only a bit quicker than par). But the best fillies came to the fore, with a decent gap behind the first four, and it probably represents very smart form from the winner, even though her nearest pursuers can be rated close to her on wider form.

PEARLS GALORE (118 here, 109 previously) received a good ride from the front in first-time cheekpieces but won with sufficient authority that she should be credited with a new career best. She dictated before upping the pace markedly at halfway, under pressure turning in and responding most generously.

SAFFRON BEACH (110 here, 116 previously) was a bit below form on this softer ground, in second and looking to have the winner covered before straightening but one paced late in the piece, her tendency to go freely when the pace was steady ultimately counting against her.

TENEBRISM (108 here, 114 previously) did not obviously lack for stamina here, at least until near to the finish, but the fact remains that her very best effort and only win this year came the one time she tackled 7f (Prix Jean Prat at Deauville). She travelled comfortably enough in mid-field was rousted turning in and improved into third for pressure, no extra only near the line. The Foret at the Arc Meeting could be a good option, though the 1400m at Longchamp is some way short of the full compliment.

HOMELESS SONGS (104 here, 118 previously) shaped as if needing the race after 4 months off and should be much nearer her Irish 1000 Guineas form with this behind her, travelling strongly and soon in third, still looking a major player after 2f out though with a few lengths to find (went as short as 1.70 in the run), but flattening out thereafter.

HONEY GIRL (94 here, 101 previously) was not discredited, especially as she missed the break.

AFFOGATO (93 here, 100 previously) was never really on terms but not discredited at this lofty level.

STAR GIRLS AALMAL (75 here, 104 previously) ran even poorer and is not the same filly she was a couple of starts back for whatever reason.

CONCERT HALL (73 here, 108 previously) probably needs further than a mile now, but her last couple of efforts have been decidedly poor whatever the excuses.

LIGHTS ON (57 here, 106 previously) may not be the most consistent but this was a particularly poor effort following a slow start.