The big prize drew a really competitive field assembled several improving younger sorts and a number of more established handicappers primed for a big run but this race presents a unique test, usually requiring speed as much as stamina, and not all were seen to advantage.

That said, they went a decent gallop this time and it proved easier to come from off the pace than is often the case, as exemplified by the first-time-visored BULWARK, who came from well back, not making his ground until over 2f out, still only sixth approaching the final 1f but staying on to lead in the final 75 yards despite edging left. He has been a smart stayer in his day and clearly retains plenty of ability - though he was also a quirky sort in the past and probably remains so and the headgear may not have the same effect again next time.

The good gallop also helped Som Tala, who had been slightly outpaced when fifth in this 12 months previously and ran better off a higher mark this time, leading over 1f out until near the finish. He went on to show better form on a more galloping track last year and could well do so again this time - he appears to have improved for being gelding.

Tilt does not have a high strike-rate but is clearly a fair stayer and he ran another good race in clear third, making ground from over 3f out, leading briefly inside the final 1f and squeezed out by the first two late on, but for which he would have finished even closer.

Highland Legacy was another who would have been carrying more weight had the handicapper been able to take his most recent effort into consideration but after making ground from over 3f out he did not seem to handle the final bend and may also be worth another chance.

Wing Collar ran creditably, while Inchnadamph did not appear to have quite the speed for this challenge - the Cesarewitch is more his race. Fair Along had finished second in this in 2007 but did best of those involved in forcing the decent pace here - he was also bumped and forced wide on the bend 6f out. Halla San was ridden from an early stage and could never get into it. Trainer Richard Fahey had warned that the 2007 winner Greenwich Meantime might not quite be ready and he ran like that, though he was also short of room 3f out - either way, he is capable of better.

Black Rock soon led from his wide draw and though he jinked twice on the bend 6f out he was still in front over 1f out but he paid the price and may not have stayed the trip - he was a progressive three-year-old in 2007 and should not be written off.

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