South Korea's Horse Of The Year in 2016 has run two solid races in handicaps over this course and distance without showing anything really exciting. First time he was slowly away before finishing well as runner-up and latterly he failed to quicken near the end when fourth. Improvement needed.
2
Long River
Finished fourth in the shorter Burj Nahaar on this day last year, clumsy from the gates that time. Ran really well on his return here in January involved in a speed battle for the lead but keeping on bravely for second in that 1600m G2. Maybe that took his toll as he flopped last time.
3
Move Up
Not very big, but talented and tenacious as he showed when fighting back to win a G3 over 2400m on soft Ascot turf on his most recent start, last October. Interesting to see this colt switched to a dirt surface but his pedigree offers hope and the stable have been in great form.
4
Furia Cruzada
Three times a G1 winner in South America - twice on dirt - she gained her first win since when clinging on to victory in a G2 over 1900m on the dirt here last month. That was a slowly-run affair, but this mare is reportedly very happy in these surroundings and there may be more to come.
5
Special Fighter
Unfancied for this race last year, but, allowed an easy lead, he sprinted clear for a 4 1/2L winning margin. He subsequently showed that to be no fluke when fourth in the deeper waters of the G1 Dubai World Cup itself. That was his last start and it's all about how sharp he is for this return.
6
Second Summer
His US career included a G2 victory over 1800m at Santa Anita last May. An encouraging return in his new Meydan surroundings when a nose second to Saturday's rival Furia Cruzade in a 1900m G2 on the dirt here last month, closing well off some slow early fractions.
7
Mizbah
Despite being an exposed veteran, he appeared to post a clear career best when romping to a 7 1/2L victory in a 1900m handicap here in January, dictating and never being threatened. Well beaten twice since, a G1 win here would be a huge shock.
8
Lani
Back to the venue of his terrific victory in the G2 UAE Derby over 1900m last March, his stamina kicking in to mow down better fancied rivals. He then became the first Japanese horse to run in all three US Triple Crown races including a third in the Belmont Stakes over 2400m last June. A big player.
