Likes to race bang up with the speed, tactics that saw him win this last year and subsequently finish a close third in a G1. Has been beaten a long way in his last four starts including a dismal attempt on dirt last time. Perhaps his astute trainer can get him back to peak but he doesn't look an obvious winner this time.
2
Mythical Magic
Had some smart winning two-year-old achievements but only raced twice last year, both good efforts when a close runner-up in Listed events in France. Made very encouraging progress in the second half of the race when second in a 1400m G2 here last month.
3
Championship
Has only raced four times since winning this event two years ago, his best effort since coming in this last year, leading most of the way before being gunned down late. Will no doubt be sharper after his fair sixth here last month but he faces strong opposition.
4
Comin'Through
On his day has produced high class efforts in Australia, most recently with a narrow G2 winning strike over 1400m at Randwick last September. He didn't make much impact behind Beauty Generation in last December's LONGINES Hong Kong Mile but should improve on his fair Meydan debut last month.
5
First Contact
Knows where the winning post is, triumphant in four of his eight starts last year, latterly landing a Listed event over this trip in France with a bit to spare. Making his Meydan debut last month after a 138-day break, he wasn't at his best.
6
Wootton
Had some decent form in France last year for a different stable including a G3 Longchamp win (on heavy ground) last April. A front-running type who has had this race earmarked for some time.
7
Marinaresco
Has G1 winning form in South Africa though his most potent efforts have come over further than this. Certainly the 1400m of his Meydan debut last month placed far too much emphasis on speed and he never figured. Blistering early fractions will be important for his chance.
8
Century Dream
Progressed easily from handicap grade in 2017 to run some cracking races in higher grade last year closing down with a career highlight, finishing a close third to brilliant Roaring Lion in an Ascot G1 last October. He'll need to be fighting fit on his first start since then, but ratings give him a major chance.
9
Top Score
Usually runs over shorter than this, though previous evidence suggests he probably stays this trip. Has appeared to have plenty in his favour on all Meydan starts this year, but beaten each time.
