95-105 Handicap S1 - 6, 22/02/2018, Thursday Post Time 01:25
1600m – Dirt
| 1 | Ross | Gathering momentum in the last 400m, he delivered a powerful challenge that only just failed to secure a G2 victory over this course and distance last March. A modest pace didn't help on his return to Meydan earlier this month, and he never figured. Better is anticipated. |
| 2 | Classic Emperor | Four wins from 25 starts on turf before improved form switched to the Sha Tin dirt last three outings. Stormed well clear in 1650m Class 2 in November. Followed with running-on third at inadequate 1200m on 3 December. Overcame top-weight for a smart 0.5L score at 1650m latest. Possibly still has upside given he is bred to relish dirt. Meydan surface and racing left-handed are unknown factors. |
| 3 | Drafted | Has thrived since joining Doug Watson's powerful Dubai stable, winning his last two starts over 1200m and 1400m, latterly when sitting chilly well off a strong pace but sauntering past rivals late on. His pedigree does not scream this extra distance, but his running style suggests it might suit. |
| 4 | Footbridge | Effective at this distance and further when competing in California. However he has struggled to make an impact in a light campaign over three seasons at Meydan. The fact that he has been kept in training - and his stable is currently in great form - does suggest some hope. |
| 5 | Desert Force | Won two 1400m Meydan handicaps here in 2016 but his brief appearances since have resulted in some heavy defeats. A post-race examination revealed possible excuses for his dismal performance on his only start this season but he'll also need to prove himself at this distance. |
| 6 | Rodaini | A smart turf campaigner in the UK, his five wins coming at up to this distance and Listed race level. He made a promising start on dirt in a handicap here last month, leading for much of the way. However he failed to progress from that - unable to get the lead - in a subsequent start. Needs to be quicker from the gates. |
| 7 | Capezzano | Certainly talented though he can lose ground at the start and also race too freely. He posted some good performances here in 2016 and 2017, but - fitted with a hood - he raced too fast early on on his return here last month. He faded right out but post-race examination revealed mucus. |
| 8 | Claim The Roses | From a stable enjoying an excellent year and this guy was a winner of a handicap over this course and distance in January, racing prominently and simply proving too strong for his rivals. He also ran well when fourth over 1400m subsequently and looks to belong on the shortlist. |
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