EXCEED THE WISH

Four weeks ago, over the same distance, this horse performed well, jumping slowly and settling towards the rear. He finished strongly to take second place, beaten by half a length. This time he carries only a two-pound weight increase. Despite good times from fellow contenders in the group and a strong trainer-jockey relationship, intensive training notwithstanding, a poor barrier draw necessitates a hold-up tactic. However, his finishing kick may not be sufficient to beat the opposition, making this race less favorable for him as a leading contender.