A 7lb rise for his recent Bath win was never going to touch the sides if TOP SEED was capable of rolling back to the peak of his powers when a high-class three-year-old, and he confirmed he's finally getting his career back on track by following up in this competitive handicap. Those who backed him into 2-1 favourite must have been concerned when he was niggled along and still way in rear turning into the home straight, but he gradually worked his way through the field and pounced on the long-time leaders close home. Given how much better he has been in the past, he could easily be up to defying a further lift in the ratings if his trainer can keep him sound.

Ocean Avenue showed virtually nothing last season but was clearly all the better for his winter break and returned to something like his old self, helping to force the pace throughout and only being mugged close home. He can build on this.

There was a gap back to Prime Contender, who appreciated the return to a more suitable trip, was close up throughout and kept on well enough, while Prime Powered was still travelling nicely approaching the two-furlong marker before finding little for pressure, though he shaped well, reflecting the good recent form of his yard.

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