SANDOWN PARK 15:00

Non Runners: PRINCE EIJI. Race Distance Adjustment: +25 yds

Time: 2m 9.43s Closing Sectional: (3f): 38.15s (101.1%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 110%, Betfair SP 100.4%

A Group 3 with a famously poor record of living up to its title, only one winner this century - Imperial Monarch in the Grand Prix de Paris - landing a win at the highest level subsequently, victory here the highpoint of their career for the majority, the field here containing 5 Derby entries, though their form to this point suggested that might be highly optimisitic for the majority, the winner and runner-up, likely to have been closer with a clear run, at least keeping the Epsom option on the table, even if the form is no more than useful.

BANGKOK (IRE) heavily backed, overcame the rise in class, despite getting warm and on his toes beforehand, though he barely had to improve on the form shown at Doncaster, plenty more needed if he's to make an impact in the Derby, reportedly to go there next, possibly via Breakfast With The Stars; patiently ridden, not settle fully, good progress 2f out, quickened to lead over 1f out, in command soon after, won readily; he's open to further improvement, pedigree suggesting the trip will be no problem at Epsom, even if the company is.

TECHNICIAN (IRE) back down in trip, progressed again, up in grade, and was clearly better than the result, though the winner wasn't all out and a closer second seems the likeliest outcome, even with a perfect passage; in touch, took keen hold, effort over 2f out, not clear run, stayed on inside final 1f, took second near line; will benefit from return to 1½m; open to further improvement.

PERSIAN MOON (IRE) upped in trip, ran well after 7 months off, the type to pay his way at a realistic level this summer, listed level or Group 3 abroad about where he wants to be pitched; tracked pace, went with zest, disputed home turn, edged ahead over 2f out, headed over 1f out, not quicken.

TRAVEL ON showed much improved form, not really a surprise given the way he improved from run to run at 2 yrs, his physique suggesting he'd make a better 3-y-o; waited with, took keen hold, ridden over 2f out, not quicken, not persevered with once held.

ALFAATIK in first-time blinkers, built on debut promise after 4 months off, though still very much in need of experience (again fluffed the start); slowly into stride, in rear, ran green, shaken up straight, not quicken, stayed on final 1f; the quick resort to headgear is a concern, but he looks capable of better again.

KUWAIT CURRENCY (USA) was well held over 2f longer trip, essentially outclassed; led until over 2f out, weakened soon after.