'He's been running well and he's in the Cesarewitch' - key quotes and analysis for Southwell's feature handicap

We're reaching that time of year when three-year-olds start to clash with their elders more frequently in handicap company and the early market for this contest suggests the younger legs are set to dominate, particularly when Pappano (one handicap start) and Pagan Sun (handicap debutant) are so unexposed.

Pappano might improve for a gelding operation as he has taken a keen hold on all of his starts since his debut. He was considered good enough to contest Derby trials earlier on in the season, but doesn't look obviously well handicapped off 90.

Pagan Sun put in his best effort since arriving from Ireland when third in a novice at this course last month and has a progressive profile, but a mark of 80 seems about right.

Preference is for the consistent and improving Cock And Bull, who would be capable of winning this if breaking on terms. He is a perennial slow starter and that proved costly in a Racing League event over two furlongs shorter at this track last time.

He did well to be beaten only four and three-quarter lengths after such a sluggish beginning and is 1lb lower now.

Three-time winner Atilla The Honey has been beaten 116 lengths on her last two starts, so is best watched, but Cesarewitch entry Story Horse is only 3lb higher than when winning at Haydock in July and isn’t without hope.

Another to consider is Charging Thunder, who is on his lowest mark since September 2021. He is just as effective on the all-weather as he is on turf and is 3lb better off with Fleurman, who he beat by a head at Chelmsford in July.
Analysis by Maddy Playle

Going update

The going was standard on Tuesday after some light showers overnight. Wednesday's forecast is mainly dry with light cloud and light winds expected.

What they say

William Knight, trainer of Story Horse
He's been running well all year and he's in the Cesarewitch which is a shot in the dark but he should stay well. I think Michael Bell's horse [Cock And Bull] is the danger.

Thady Gosden, joint-trainer of Pappano
He ran very well at Haydock last time and since then he's been gelded. The track and trip should play to his strengths.

Sean Woods, trainer of Pagan Sun
He joined us from Ireland and he ran a nice race last time when third but he's been put up 5lb for that which is not ideal. He has worked well since and should be competitive.

Michael Bell, trainer of Cock and Bull
He's been dropped 1lb since his last run and should enjoy going back up in trip. We like our chances.
Reporting by David Milnes

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