Races PR Belmont

Returns from a lengthy spell after finishing fifth in Open grade over 1400m at this track, beaten just over half a length after copping interference near the 200m. He had earlier been seventh at Ascot, also in Open company, but his 1200m record is a clear strength and two trials since, including a close second at Belmont Park, point to a forward return. Close Open fifth before the break reads well for this.

Had excuses first-up at Ascot when seventh over 1000m, racing wide throughout and being bumped in the straight before finishing just under five lengths from Hansadios. His previous start was a Mdn win at this track, where he led and beat Long Laugh as a dominant odds-on favourite. Needs to improve quickly.

Back from a three-month break following a plain second-last at Northam in Class 3 grade, beaten over 10 lengths on heavy ground after failing to quicken. The run prior was a narrow Mdn win at Northam when well found in betting, and Chris Parnham returns after partnering him successfully before. Winning rider returns, but he has to find his Northam Mdn form again.

Returns from a lengthy spell with a strong readiness pointer, having won a comfortable Belmont Park trial. He was ninth in the G3 WA Sires Produce Stakes at Ascot before the break, beaten six and a half lengths, after winning a Mdn at 1200m as favourite the start prior. Strongest profile and the one to beat.

Worked home strongly for third at Ascot first-up over 1000m, beaten a length and a half by Hansadios after beginning slowly. He has one win and four placings from eight starts around 1200m, so the trip is familiar, but his overall strike rate remains the limiting factor. Good on resumption and with improvement likely, he can play a leading role.

Produced another sound placing first-up at Ascot, finishing second over 1000m and beaten just over a length after beginning slowly and being held up in the straight. He was also second in Open grade at this venue before the break, beaten just under a length by Achy Breaky. First go at 1200m is the question.

Was sent out an odds-on favourite at York first-up in BM44+ grade but could only manage fourth, beaten just over two lengths by Merchant Trader after leading. That followed an eighth at Pinjarra Scarpside in CG Class 1 company, where he faded late at long odds. Draw and claim help, though he must finish it off better.

Returns from a lengthy spell for a new state assignment after ending last campaign with an eighth in a BM56 at Echuca, beaten four and a half lengths after leading and tiring late. He was fourth in a BM62 at Wodonga the start before, again fading after leading. Untried at 1200m and recent form has to lift.