Animus Associates Classified Stakes

Winner last time, taking a narrow handicap that extended a steady upward sequence — she now drops in class, which tilts conditions firmly in her favour. Effective at this trip on a sound surface, and back within a fortnight, she tops our figures and looks the clear pick.

Well beaten last time over a longer trip than suits him — more effective at seven or eight furlongs on sound ground, which he gets today. Form has been hard to predict since the move from Ireland and yet to win in recent starts, but capable of featuring at the right distance.

Runner-up last time having been hampered and forced to come from well off the pace — she ran to her level despite the obstacles, and fast ground suits her well. Her trainer is in form, and if she can build on that placing, she is a real threat; inconsistency is the caveat.

Moved keenly last time before going to the front too soon and fading through the closing stages — he showed enough promise to suggest there is ability there. Effective at seven furlongs on the all-weather; first-time tongue-tie today, though the mile here may again test his stamina.

Third last time without ever getting a clear passage, finishing fast through beaten horses — the margin overstated the gap to the placed horses considerably. Effective at this trip; a first-time hood and tongue-tie applied today, with the fast ground the only reservation.