I thought that Esna had place claims at huge odds for the 1000 Guineas, before being taken out of the race, so these calmer waters ought to see her deliver a winning reappearance.
The Brian Meehan-trained Starman filly built on a promising Sandown debut when an authoritative winner over 7f at the same venue, beating subsequent Listed Fielden Stakes scorer Morshdi in the process. Esna was beaten just over two lengths in Group One company at Longchamp next time, so she has considerable scope for further improvement this season.
NON-RUNNER
Havana Anna is the standout selection for this Listed prize for fillies. The daughter of Havana Grey is a dual scorer, including at this level. She ran an excellent second in a Grade One at Newmarket prior to a difficult test at the Breeders' Cup. Setting a clear standard for her rivals to aim at, I would be surprised if she were not able to win this given her already lofty exploits.
Arkenstaar is a real course specialist, with Hamilton form figures of 2111114344121. Those remarkable statistics obviously bode well for the six-year-old who is just 2lb higher than his previous winning mark, and he is versatile ground-wise, in what appears to be a moderate contest. I'm hopeful of him being fit enough to run into a placing.
Sir Benedict holds genuine each-way claims in what appears an extremely modest sprint handicap. The eight-year-old son of Dandy Man is a seven-time winner, including at this venue. He may be able to step forward from a satisfactory fifth at Catterick last month. The cheekpieces are back on, which is the sign of intent from connections as his last four wins have been delivered when wearing them.
Back Andy Robson's 4-leg To Place Acca
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