ASCOT 15:50

All 6 ran. Hurdles: 9.

Time: 3m 50.93s

Overrounds: Industry SP 113%, Betfair SP 100.2%

With improvers in short supply this certainly wasn't the strongest race for the grade, but Leviathan could do no more than run out a facile winner, and the second should have more to offer, so the result ought to prove reliable enough; the pace was only ordinary, with the winner kicking on off the home turn.

LEVIATHAN attracted some support, produced a career-best to resume winning ways, and whilst he was clearly suited by how the race unfolded, he was value for plenty more than the bare margin, so there's clearly no fluke about this success; prominent, jumped soundly and went with zest, jumped on third, quickened clear home turn, readily asserted before last and eased late on; should at least remain competitive.

SWEET DEAL (IRE) making handicap debut after 5 months off, ran creditably in his bid to land the hat-trick, but ultimately shaped as if he'd be better for the run; in touch, not fluent third, shaken up after 3 out, kept on between last 2, never a threat and flattered by proximity to eased down winner; may yet do better and will remain of interest.

FLUTE BOWL back down in trip, ran creditably but doesn't obviously have much in hand from this sort of mark; handy, not fluent first, hampered approaching fourth, ridden 2 out, one paced.

STARLUCK (IRE) refitted with blinkers, wasn't entirely disgraced from a form perspective, but will need further respite from the handicapper if he's to make more of an impact; waited with, took strong hold, pushed along 2 out, made no impression.

BENBECULA ran poorly, and given the way that he jumped it seems all may not have been well on the day, be that physically or mentally; led, jumped erratically, headed third, ridden home turn, soon beaten.

LE FIN BOIS (FR) probably needed run after 8 months off; raced off the pace and raced freely, brief headway after 3 out but folded tamely before next and not unduly punished; next run should reveal more.