Dundalk 5:30 pm

AI Verdict

KERDOS tops the bill, backed by his recent class and consistency, though his six-week layoff may slightly dull his edge. Ipanema Queen follows, a progressive filly with a sharp late-season win, though her recent runout suggests she's not quite as sharp as her best. Valiant Force is a credible third, but his recent form lacks punch, and his surface preference could be a slight concern on Polytrack.

Sir Les Patterson is the most eye-catching threat—his course win and improving recent efforts suggest he's in fine fettle, though his lack of recent sharpness keeps him just behind the front three. The Highway Rat is a dark horse; his late-season revival and experience could see him trouble the leaders, but his recent runs have been unconvincing.

The rest lack the firepower to trouble the top four, though Rosie Frith's recent win and Xerling's late-season form give them fringe chances. Prairie Girl and Eclairage, despite their C+D wins, appear too inconsistent to figure. Chicago Call and Valiant Force's pedigree advantages are offset by their recent struggles.

A tight sprint—expect a battle between the top four, with Kerdos holding the slight edge.