Havana the one to beat

HAVANA GREY has twice impressed with his turn of foot, and could take some beating. His National Stakes victory received a boost here on Tuesday when Sound And Silence landed the Windsor Castle. Don’t Come Easy and Nine Below Zero have place claims.

This often falls to a horse on a sharp upward curve, and GOLD SPINNER

fits that bill. Tamleek’s

Chester form looks solid enough. Mirage Dancer

represents trainer Sir Michael Stoute, who has won this twice since 2009.

Alluringly has the best form, having finished third in the Investec Oaks, but that is a tough race and she will do well to have recovered. The progressive MORI, who had appeared to have something in hand when winning at Goodwood, is preferred.

This stiff stamina test looks made for SIMPLE VERSE. While last year’s winner Order Of St George has to command respect, he does not appear to be at his best on fast ground.

SABADOR produced an eye-catching win at Ayr last time, and his speed there suggests he is ahead of the Handicapper. City Joy is another fast-improver with claims. Leader’s Legacy and Executive Force are respected in a wide open affair.

REACHFORTHESTARS may be the answer to this puzzle. His battling success last time gives him every chance. Drochaid and Never Surrender are on the shortlist.