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.