CHATEAUNEUF

Five weeks ago, over the same distance, this horse performed poorly with a slow start and settled towards the rear. Maintaining a steady pace throughout, it lacked a strong finish but was beaten by only two and a half lengths for fifth place. Now stepping up in class, this time carrying one pound less weight, facing unfavorable opposition, and with a trainer-jockey combination that doesn't appear to be fully cohesive. Despite drawing a good barrier, the jockey has limited understanding of the horse’s capabilities and seems without a clear plan.