ORIENTAL SURPRISE

Two weeks ago, this horse performed poorly in a race over the same distance, settling in a good position tracking the leaders with a steady pace but lacking a finishing surge and trailing badly. This time he has a four-pound weight reduction, but the sectional times are not promising. He will need to be held up, however his finishing kick is inferior to rivals and the situation looks unfavorable despite drawing a reasonable barrier; it doesn’t appear likely to succeed.