C2 | 4+
Winner GBP £36,078 - 26 runners
1m
Going: Good
Surface: T
BACK IN BLACK (17) can continue his excellent form from last season. Secured victory trying 7f at this meeting last year before running well in top handicaps. Given gelding operation which may help and he remains nicely treated. SHOUT (9) rates next best. Proved a good Ascot winner over 1m in September and his Balmoral fourth was solid. The in-form ROGUE DIPLOMAT (11) is a live contender. He came agonisingly close to a fifth consecutive success attempting the 1m Lincoln last month. Could gain revenge on URBAN LION (5) who warrants respect once again for the yard which won this in 2024. FIFTH COLUMN (7) looks best of the rest.