Pliny

The recent form makes for interesting reading, though. That figure of 2 — a second place — buried in the last six runs shows Pliny is capable of running a genuine race. The problem is the inconsistency either side of it: placings mixed in with finishes as far back as eighth suggest a horse that hasn't quite found its rhythm or the conditions that bring out its best. Trainer Noel Meade's yard at Castletown in Co Meath has been in fine form this season, sending out 42 winners, so the support structure around Pliny is hard to fault.

Colin Keane, one of Ireland's most accomplished jockeys, has partnered Pliny five times without a win between them. That's not necessarily a reflection on either horse or rider — sometimes combinations simply haven't clicked yet, or the right opportunity hasn't arrived. Keane wouldn't keep coming back without believing there's something worth chasing. Pliny raced just yesterday, so whatever conclusions the team are drawing, they're drawing them quickly.

At three years old, there is still time. Horses of this age are still developing physically and mentally, and plenty have taken longer to find their feet before turning into consistent performers. Pliny hasn't won yet, but it hasn't stopped trying either — and in a yard firing on all cylinders, the hope will be that the breakthrough comes sooner rather than later.