Judged on the strength of her 2yo maiden form, ROCKIN' THE BOAT looks particularly interesting. Hunky Dory, a similar type, is second choice ahead of Rogue Diplomat who is another handicap newcomer to note. White Crown Star holds solid claims on the back of a good C&D effort, while Noble Guest ties in with that rival.[Steve Boow]
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Proved suited by the drop to 7f in Leicester novice event (good to firm) on reappearance; could well build on that comfortable win and show further progress; respected handicap debutant.
Proved consistent on AW/turf last season, winning once and finishing second on four occasions, including sole handicap attempt; likely to go well, assuming he returns in similar form.
Ran creditably over 6f at Doncaster last Saturday on reappearance, while shaping as if this return to further will suit; won at Ayr in sole 7f handicap attempt and is still unexposed at the trip.
Ran well a few times on the other course here last summer; limitations rather exposed in Class 2 events since and remains a maiden (0-6) but this drop back in grade is a positive.
Campaigned at the minimum trip last spring/summer for Charlie Johnston, winning on debut; sold for 42,000gns and gelded since last run; something to prove upped 2f in distance.
Showed clear promise in 7f maidens last year and the form has substance, particularly her debut effort (third behind subsequent Group 3 scorers); could be well treated off her opening mark; very interesting.
Had wind surgery over the winter and has seen his races out better this year, winning AW novice event at Kempton then runner-up in C&D handicap (good); the type to improve further; major contender.
Progressive in Class 5 handicaps over 7f on AW since handicapping, gelded prior to Kempton reappearance win; has something to prove off new mark in this higher grade back on turf.
Five-race maiden; creditable fourth in a couple of handicaps this term, latest at Haydock (1m) last Saturday when weaker in the betting than on reappearance; again has frame possibilities.
Has progressive AW form, most recently clear third off this mark at Southwell (7f) on handicap/seasonal debut; each-way possibilities, provided that form is transferred back to turf.
Good third at Kempton (7f, AW) in final 2yo start and that form has been strongly advertised by the runner-up since (landed the Esher Cup most recently); could well take another step forward now handicapping.
Progressive in maidens, winning at Chepstow (7f) the final time; has regressed in three handicaps but a turnaround is possible off a reduced mark with Epsom reappearance under his belt.
Best 2yo effort is a strong piece of form; has shown promise with fifth-place finishes in two handicaps this term and latest effort (over C&D) can be marked up as things didn't go smoothly; not ruled out.
1/5 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
