Almazann

The trainer is Dermot Weld, one of the most respected names in Irish racing, operating out of the Curragh in Co Kildare. His yard has already sent out 29 winners this season alone, which gives you a sense of the quality and volume of operation Almazann is part of. Horses trained by Weld tend to be placed deliberately and patiently, so the fact that this one has run just twice and raced as recently as yesterday suggests the team are building towards something rather than rushing.

The obvious question is whether Almazann can convert one of those close finishes into an actual victory. Two seconds from two races is a record that tells you the talent is there — but in racing, close only counts so far. One thing is certain: with a trainer of Weld's calibre and a horse that has been consistently competitive in its short career, it would be no surprise at all to see the winner's enclosure come soon.