Four weeks ago, over this same distance, the horse performed exceptionally well, jumping slowly and settling back in the field before finishing with a strong two-section pace to take second place, beaten by only half a length. This time he carries just a one-pound penalty, posting the best time within his group. The tactics will be to settle back and rely on a strong finishing kick – the strongest in the race. Based on relative ability, he is the leading contender. The jockey has some understanding of the horse’s capabilities and there's mutual trust between trainer and jockey; despite drawing a less favorable barrier, his true potential can still be shown.