Dropping to 6f shouldn't be an issue for the thriving City Cyclone (second choice), while Royal Musketeer, Bill Plumb and Em Jay Kay also have something to recommend them. None appeals more than the unexposed JIMMY KNOCKER, however, with his Newcastle win well advertised since and who has the potential for further progress after just five starts.[Paul Smith]
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Goes well fresh so wouldn't be sure to improve on his C&D return three weeks ago, a race where he comfortably saw off his nine rivals; that said, he retains handicapping scope and looks a solid contender.
Three course wins, all over 7f, and he has looked an improved performer this year; up in class and down in trip but thriving and he isn't short of pace; strong contender.
Progressive in 2023, winning three times (including two over C&D), and now 3lb lower than for last success; looked rusty back from a 496-day absence at Chelmsford 11 days ago but 5f wasn't optimal and he did enough to suggest he retains a good portion of his ability; still low mileage and he's not discounted.
Just one win from his 24 starts but he made a fair debut for his new stable when third of eight over C&D a fortnight ago; blew the start that day and can pose a greater threat with a clean start.
Had a 488-day layoff prior to his stable debut in October; taking a while to find his feet and although his penultimate Southwell fourth was more encouraging, he couldn't back it up three weeks ago; edging down the weights but not solid at present.
Unexposed 4yo; pleasing stable debut when fourth at Southwell and he took a good step forward with a snug win at Newcastle 25 days ago (6f); the subsequent wins of the second and third, as well as big efforts in defeat from the fourth and fifth, give that form serious ballast; a 4lb rise looks manageable and there should be more to come; slow starts could be an issue going forward but he's still a strong contender.
