Lexington Blitz

The pattern in his recent form tells the real story. After finishing third and third in his last two races, Lexington Blitz won at Goodwood back in May—a solid Class 2 victory that justified the faith. That win bumped his official rating up 9 pounds, to 97, which is a real mark of progress. What makes him interesting is that he does not run away from track conditions that trouble other horses. He loves what Cowell calls the "Marmite tracks"—courses that divide opinion but suit his style. He was second in a big race at Epsom last year, a course that many horses dislike, and he seems to thrive on fast, dry ground and courses that demand a particular kind of pace.

Last season brought a significant turning point. Gelding improved him noticeably, and a decent break refreshed him for the campaign ahead. Cowell has talked about Lexington Blitz as a genuinely progressive animal, one who needs his racing to strip him fit. After a run at York where he led for much of the way but found the ground against him, he came to Epsom and seemed to enjoy himself—exactly the sort of course he relishes. At four years old and with a rating of 97, he is now operating at the level where only the consistent horses survive. Lexington Blitz is one of them.