Usually a highly significant bumper, in its own right and also with the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham in mind, the last 4 winners of this going on to win (Envoi Allen), finish second, finish second and win (Facile Vega) at the Festival the following month. With the first two this year coming clear, the form probably deserves a bit more respect than it is initially getting. The overall time was no more than fair, that at least in part down to quite a steady pace for a long way (105.6% finishing speed), the runners still well grouped 3f out.
A DREAM TO SHARE (f146 here, 121 previously) moved to the top of the bumper ratings with this ready success under a 3 lb penalty, much better in terms of form than he had managed in victory at Tipperary and Roscommon previously. He was held up in touch, made good headway to lead 2f out, quickened on and continued to respond well for pressure. He should give a good account in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham.
FACT TO FILE (f139 here, 133 previously) enhanced his reputation in defeat, running into a useful one but coming clear of the rest. He tracked the pace travelling comfortably, improved to dispute the lead 2f out and ran on but not as strongly as A Dream To Share. He might not be all that far away if taking up his engagement at Cheltenham.
FERONILY (f125 here, 130 previously) looked like finishing closer for a long way, travelling well on the heels of the leaders if a shade wide, disputing the lead briefly 2f out then no extra.
FASCILE MODE (f123 here, 129 previously) was below the winning form of his debut here but might have been somewhat closer ridden closer up, held up in touch but outpaced when things heated up and merely keeping on.
CHOSEN WITNESS (f112 here, 122 previously)
THIS SONGISFORYOU (f111 here, 121 previously)
LARGY HILL (f110 here, 122 previously)
SPECIAL CADEAU (f93 here, 129 previously)
