LESLIE

Fourteen days ago, this horse ran a disappointing race over a Happy Valley mile, with a slow jump and settling towards the rear. It made some progress in the middle stages but faded in the final section, finishing well-beaten. Returning to a dirt mile this time with a one-pound weight reduction, the horse has shown good form over this distance and boasts the best time figures in the field. It's expected to race from behind, possessing the strongest finishing kick amongst its rivals, and is rated highly overall for this particular race. The jockey has a moderate understanding of the horse’s temperament, but its barrier draw is unfavorable and the trainer-jockey combination isn't particularly strong; nevertheless, it should not be discounted.