HKJC World Pool Northern Dancer Handicap (GBBPlus Race)

Prolific 8yo who gained his 11th success when taking 1m4f Ripon handicap (good) in April; got a 2lb nudge after that and received a further 3lb rise after finishing fifth in 2m Group 2 in Germany four weeks ago; while that's not ideal, he's won off higher marks and won't mind how the ground is riding.

Unraced as a juvenile but now boasts 3-6 record, winning his first two and back on the scoresheet when making all at Leicester (1m4f, good to soft) in October; bumped into a quite well-regarded sort when second at Goodwood (1m6f, good) a fortnight ago and this unexposed 4yo looks a big contender to build on that encouraging return.

1m4f AW Listed winner (also acts on good to soft and softer) for the Gosdens but he left that yard under a cloud in the autumn; rediscovered some form at 1m2f on AW this winter but he's been below par on his last three starts; soft ground would enhance his cause but others are more solid.

Won on soft (1m) as a 2yo; gelded after just two starts last year (included 1m2f win) and he scored off 5lb lower on AW in February; various excuses in three subsequent outings when he frequently looked as though this step back up in trip is well worth another go; respected.

Won 23-runner November Handicap (1m4f, soft) in 2024 and he's 2-3 here (1m2f and 1m4f) including a win on good to soft last September; those are the clear positives but he's been poor in three starts at 1m2f (snow/AW/good) this year; has a tempting mark if he can stage a revival, so needs a market check.