3:35 Pontefract Tips

Trojan Soldier is the selection in this staying contest and arrives in excellent form, having won his last three starts since the application of cheekpieces. His latest victory came at Pontefract Racecourse over 2m 1f on good to soft ground, where he powered clear to win by 4¼ lengths off a mark of 73. The form looks solid, with the 83-rated Sea of Kings finishing second, and the manner of victory suggested he had plenty in hand. The cheekpieces appear to have transformed him, bringing about a notable improvement in both consistency and finishing effort. As a result, the handicapper has raised him 5 lb, but that increase looks fair given the authority of his most recent success. Today's step up to 2m 2f should hold no fears. In fact, his recent performances suggest that stamina is one of his greatest assets, and the extra furlong may even bring out further improvement. Although carrying a higher mark than for his latest win, Trojan Soldier remains open to further progress over staying trips and looks the most convincing option in the field.