Not a race that has had a great tradition as a Classic trial, even when it was run on turf, and the early timing and switch to Polytrack is unlikely to have beneficial effect in that respect. There were only two 1,000 Guineas entries in any case, and neither finished in the frame. The pace looked strong, however, and the winning time was nearly half a second quicker than that taken by reasonable older handicappers in the opener.

DON'T DILI DALI was fit from a spell in Dubai, where she ran her best race on her final start, finishing third in the UAE Oaks. She had to come from behind from her outside draw and was last off the bend, where Song Of Silence was already making the best of her way home, but she really found her stride when they straightened up and made up a deal of ground to collar the leader well inside the final furlong and pull clear. She reportedly never quite came to herself in Dubai and has been much happier since she arrived home. She may well be campaigned abroad now, and the Italian Oaks looks a more realistic target than the Irish Guineas. She is from a family with a good record in that race.

Song Of Silence came here with the aim of gaining a Listed placing, and when she straightened up with a three length lead it looked as if she might leave with a Listed win, for nothing looked like getting to her until the winner emerged from the pack. This was a cracking effort from a filly whose Lingfield handicap wins were gained off 64 and 70, and she will probably return there next weekend for a seven-furlong Listed race, which she might even win. The front-running tactic seemed to suit her well.

Suzy Bliss was doing good work on the outside in the closing stages on the all-weather debut, and she should come on for the race. She too looks as if she will be suited by a bit further.

Cross Channel benefited from the good pace set by stable-mate Song Of Silence, but this still looked an inadequate test for her, for having been handily placed she looked one paced in the last two furlongs.

Rising Cross, poorly drawn and not well away, was always fighting a losing battle but kept on well. Her best opportunities are likely to come early in the season, as she is still small, and on this showing connections are likely to be looking for something over further.

Rajeem, who missed the break and was soon chased along on the inside, was then a sufferer in interference at the end of the first furlong that the stewards reported also involved Choosy, Miss Highjinks and Sleeping Storm This is probably best forgotten.

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