Big Country tasked with extending perfect record for Appleby

Big Country has not looked back since joining Mick Appleby over the winter and is unbeaten in two starts for his new trainer. He takes another step up the ladder here having been raised 10lb by the handicapper for his latest victory at Kempton.

Appleby started the four-year-old off at Wolverhampton in February and a good run was obviously expected as he was sent off odds-on before collecting in the style of a horse destined for better things.

His second appearance at Kempton last month resulted in another comfortable success, and winning rider Silvestre de Sousa will again be on board.

Appleby said: “He's a very nice horse and is in good order and great form. He has done nothing but please since joining the yard and I expect him to run well again. The one slight concern might be the ground."

He added: "We hope he can progress into something like an Ebor horse later in the season.”

What they say

Charlie Appleby, trainer of Frontiersman
He is a course-and-distance winner at the Rowley Mile so conditions should suit. I think he'll still be competitive off his mark.

Alan King, trainer of Top Tug and Cosmeapolitan
Top Tug has been running all right over hurdles but is probably handicapped up to his best on the Flat. Cosmeapolitan has been off for a while as he was lame after running at Newbury over hurdles. He's ready to run again but I suspect he might come on a touch for the outing.

Brendan Powell, trainer of Warrior Of Light
He might just have needed his first run since returning from Dubai over a longer trip but is fit and very well. It wouldn't be a surprise if he ran a big race at a nice price.

Mark Johnston, trainer of Final and Beardwood
Final has been slowly away on his recent starts but the step back up to a mile and a half should suit. Beardwood is a well exposed handicapper and his form is there for all to see.

Ian Williams, trainer of Banditry
He's been running very well at mile and a quarter but looked to be crying out for a step up in trip and I'm confident a mile and a half will suit him.