A race with a rich tradition, often showcasing an Oaks candidate or two, including 2004 winner Ouija Board as well as some Epsom also-rans like Dalvina, Riyalma, Mot Juste and Hi Dubai, but also other Group 1 performers later in the season.

Official ratings suggested this was as weak a renewal of this Listed race as there has been and nothing in the race suggested otherwise, with a steady early pace doing nothing to make this a stamina test either. That is not to say the first two do not remain progressive sorts, open to plenty of improvement to make the lower Group race grade.

SAPHIRA'S FIRE, who holds a Coronation Stakes entry at Royal Ascot, remains an unknown and unbeaten quantity in following up her 33-1 maiden win. She was full value for this follow-up and into the final furlong looked like drawing away to win by three or more lengths. Driven out but idling, she kept teasing the others but was in no danger of defeat.

Connections mentioned the Sandringham for the winner, which as a Listed handicap would depend how the handicapper reacts to this success, having rated her just 83 on her debut win.

Cruel Sea did well to finish second as she took a fierce hold against the slovenly pace under restraint in last but on the outside of the small field. She moved up strongly and kept on surprisingly well after those antics on this seasonal return. She is a good-looking filly who should come on for this return, and connections mentioned looking at the Musidora.

Sayyedati Symphony had every chance, but she was not good enough on this seasonal return, but Shaker can be rated a fair bit better than the bare form. She settled well off the steady pace and travelled well through the race. She got involvedin a barging match with Madame Hoi when going for a narrow gap up the stands' rail. Recovering the best, she also had to switch wide and effectively could not recover. That she got so close is testament to her gameness and ability, which has hinted at Listed success.

Mischief Making, representing the Ouija Board, Mot Juste and Dalvina stable, was disappointing on this quicker ground and in a race not run to bring her stamina into play. She got outpaced when the tempo quickened, but kept battling away in a lost cause. (BJ)

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