Coral Distaff 2011

4.15 Sandown

Coral Distaff (Listed Race) (Fillies) (Class 1) (3yo) Winner £17,013

Cape Dollar: Showed plenty of promise on her debut when third at Newmarket and took major steps forward with every run, improving from her Goodwood third (soft) to take the Rockfel on her final start; Disappointed this season although she has had valid excuses, and looked to have come to hand when an excellent fourth in Sandringham (knocked sideways, or would have gone close to winning) and should go well.

Cloud Illusions: The beneficiary of an excellent Kieren Fallon ride when winning handicap at Newmarket on return but failed to back that up next time and out of her depth in this company.

Cochabamba: Showed up well on every two year old start last season, running a close second in the Rockfel and Prestige Stakes; Might not be the type to train on in some eyes but appeared to retain all ability on comeback at Newbury and should go well here.

Dubai Queen: Progressive filly who far bettered debut form when coming second in competitive handicaps the last twice, coming a clear best of the rest in the Sandringham; Can make a bold bid.

Nahrain: Like quite a few for connections, quickly progressive when following up Windsor maiden win with Handicap romp ay Haydock; Likely to prove well upto this level and with doubts over others, chance is clearly strong.

Primevere: Broke maiden in impressive style at Kempton in October and has largely bettered that form since when fourth in pattern company the last twice (form looks fairly strong); That said, always wanted more distance and small field won’t suit.

VERDICT: A trappy event. Dubai Queen is likely to come forward again but is badly in with Cape Dollar, who seemingly has finally come to hand this season. A lot of her form makes her a clear pick, but she’s been keen early the last twice and a small field won’t help matters so things are left to the progressive NAHRAIN, whose yard is in such form.