Murat

Trained by Peter Lawlor's yard at Donard in County Wicklow, Murat carries the mark of a handler who builds winners methodically rather than by accident. Lawlor's operation has sent out six winners this season, and Murat has been central to that record, with two victories in its last six outings. The most recent came at Leopardstown on 9 July — six weeks ago — which suggests the horse remains sharp and competitive at a decent level.

Recent form tells a story of a horse hovering around the frame: a second place, then a win, then seventh, then fourth, then another win, and most recently another second. That's the mark of a consistent performer who doesn't embarrass itself. The fact that Murat raced just a day ago and is still active means this is a horse being campaigned regularly, a sign that Lawlor sees room for another winning opportunity before too long. For a seven-year-old to maintain this kind of form — winning one race in every two or three attempts — suggests genuine class at whatever level this horse operates.