An up-to-scratch Grade 2, dominated in terms of betting and form by Hewick, who duly got the job done with only a little fuss. It was steadily run, as reflected in a modest overall time and a 105% finishing speed where under 100% would be par at this course.
HEWICK (c160 here, 168 previously) made the most of a good opportunity after a couple of non-completions either side of a win in the US, leading/disputing the lead until a mistake at the 13th, then running on well again to lead at the last, which he jumped to his right, soon forging on. This trip is close to a minimum for him under these conditions and with not much pace, but his class came to the fore.
FIRST FLOW (c158 here, 152 previously) staged something of a revival, running his best race since late in 2021, leading/disputing the lead much of the way and going on again at the 13th, headed and not fluent at the last then one paced. This may be about as far as he stays.
FANTASTIC LADY (c145 here and previously) ran creditably again, firmly established as useful now, going well held up, making headway 4 out and an effort after the next then one paced.
ELDORADO ALLEN (c151 here, 156 previously) has had a difficult season, banging his head against a brick wall with the best but high in the handicap still. This was a respectable effort but he only briefly looked like playing a part having been held up.
MCFABULOUS (c0 here, 149 previously) went as if not right, niggled some time before losing ground quickly and being pulled up.
SOLO (c0 here, 149 previously) had something to find but was beaten well before the longer trip should have been an issue, losing touch after 4 out.
