SAMARKAND

On August 29th, this horse showed a good jump in a turf trial over 1200m at Conghua, improving from the middle of the field along the straight. On August 21st, during a dirt trial also over 1200m at Conghua, he tracked the leading pace and responded well when asked for effort. This is his seasonal debut after two barrier trials that showed only moderate form. He benefits from a four-pound weight reduction this time but doesn’t have an ideal draw. Despite having secured three wins over this distance previously, the overall section times of the group were not particularly strong; however, he should be able to settle in a good position tracking the leaders and has drawn a reasonable barrier.