Expert Analysis

This looked like a strong renewal of the Group 3 contest on paper and that was backed up by a good time, the quickest in the last twenty years. The combination of fast ground and an even pace contributed to this, but Symbol Of Honour is clearly a good horse when getting his conditions.

SYMBOL OF HONOUR always travelled well in mid-division, and having moved closer from halfway, he loomed up on the far side a couple of furlongs out. He was in command by the furlong pole and was kept up to his work late on to comfortably hold the late challenge of the more patiently ridden Mitbaahy.

MITBAAHY was held up in rear and remained last with two furlongs left to run. He did well to finish second, producing the quickest sectional for both the penultimate and final furlong, but it is hard to say he was unlucky as his gains on the winner were marginal.

SOLDIER’S TREE was very keen early on tracking the leaders and was pushed through to take a gap outside the two-furlong pole. He paid for those exertions late on, but it was another step forward from this progressive, unexposed gelding who only won his maiden in January on his second career start.

BINHAREER tracked the winner for much of the race and having travelled well to a point, his effort just flattened out a little in the closing stages, particularly the final furlong. It was a fair effort for his first out of handicaps though.

JASOUR was held up and even though he briefly moved into contention, he faded rather tamely in the final furlong or more.

NOBLE CHAMPION led early on the far side of the group but once challenged two furlongs out he offered little resistance and was soon beaten.

SONG OF THE CLYDE disappointed here taking on his elders. He was the first horse beaten and weakened badly in the final two furlongs.