Mohaaraj

The colt's breakthrough came at Kempton Park in February, but it was the win at Haydock Park in May that felt more convincing. Since then, however, things have stalled. Looking at the last six races, Mohaaraj has been in and out of the placings: a mid-field finish, then sixth, fifth, a place, another place, and then 14th most recently. That last outing, just a day ago, was disappointing — suggesting the horse may need time to find its rhythm again after five months without a win.

What makes Mohaaraj worth watching is the upward trajectory. Two wins from six races at this stage of a young horse's career, especially under a trainer as experienced as Hughes, points to a horse still learning its trade. Hughes's Upper Lambourn operation has been productive this season, sending out 60 winners, so Mohaaraj is part of a well-run yard with a track record of developing talent. The inconsistency in recent form is typical of a three-year-old finding its feet — the challenge now is whether Mohaaraj can build on those early wins or whether the recent dip marks a plateau.