International Stakes S1 - 4, 18/08/2021, Wednesday Post Time 22:35
1 |
Juan Elcano |
A relatively unexposed four-year-old. Recent starts suggest that he can live with top company class at around this trip. He also seems especially brave given the way he battled when second in a G2 here last month. |
2 |
Mishriff |
Earlier this year powerful stretch surges saw wins in the world's richest race - the Saudi Cup - and a G1 in Meydan, over contrasting distances and surfaces. Third and second in G1's at Sandown and Ascot - fine efforts in defeat for this tough, versatile horse. |
3 |
Love |
Her three starts in 2020 resulted in three wide margin G1 victories. She kicked off 2021 with a G1 victory on the fast ground that suits her best, leading throughout. Maybe lacked the same zip when third in an Ascot G1 in July, a small field but a red-hot race. |
4 |
Alenquer |
Beat subsequent Epsom Derby and brilliant G1 Ascot winner Adayar at Sandown on his 2021 return. Then finished powerfully to win a Royal Ascot G2 later doing his best work at the finish when third in a 2400m Longchamp G1. May need slow ground at this trip. |
5 |
Mac Swiney |
Now twice a 1600m G1 winner - both on the slow ground that suits best. Not so good in two subsequent G1 starts so this looks challenging against such high grade rivals. |
6 |
Mohaafeth |
Climbed up the ladder fast, especially stylish over 2000m at Newmarket after which he was fancied for the Derby, pulled out because of slow ground. Then won a G3 at Royal Ascot, but, slow from the gate and behind, he could only run third in a G2 here last time. |
7 |
Alcohol Free |
Moves up in distance, the big question. But has proven brilliant over around 1600m, winning G1's on two of her last three starts and a close third in the other. Her defeat of super colt Poetic Flare in a rough race at Goodwood last time was a career best. |