The Kelso Handicap – Grade II (P3)
BEL   Race #8   1m   Dirt   Graded Stake
Purse $300.000  For Three Year Olds And Upward.

1 Enshrined, trained by Mb Stables
Took the JC Gold Cup last year at grade one so it was a surprise to see him running second in a little allowance at FG in January and a bigger surprise that his only win this year came in an even lower grade race at LAD. As a four year old however this is often the story as they lose their three year old weight allowance and suddenly become pretty average. Despite that grade one win he gets in here with joint bottom weight so it may not be a surprise to see him running well here as it looks like his handicap mark has been farmed down to give him a chance in this type of race. Strong works suggest he may be ready to return to the big time today.

2 Banshee Star, trained by Joseph Racing
Three year olds shouldnt have a chance in a handicap but this is no ordinary three year old. Third in the KYD and second in the Dandy he clearly has ability but has mixed in some poor runs amongst those top efforts and it will be a gamble as to which horse turns up today.

3 Ocean Cookie, trained by Aml Racing
The Triple digit speed figures all over his form speak so much more than his 3 wins this year but top weight will be tough to overcome against some classy rivals. His third in the Grade One metropolitan Handicap was a great effort and he was very impressive last time out taking the Iselin Stakes so is in tip top form.

4 Blue Eight, trained by Blushing Meadows
Ran very well in June to run second in the grade one Foster Handicap but has been disappointing since. His works are strong though and he clearly has the ability to run a race so from a handy draw this could easily be his day.

5 Pinnacle West, trained by Tiratzo
Hasnt won since an allowance in 2015 but has run some notable races and has come very close on a few occasions. He was a close second in the San Diego Handicap in July but the win record is a worry and i can only see him placing at best.

6 Give Your All, trained by Mb Stables
He ran a cracker from a wide draw last time out to be second in the O Brien and the way he finishes his races off suggests he can get this trip even though he has never won a route race. A triple grade one winner with joint bottom weight should be an easy bet in a grade two handicap.

7 Port On The Horizon, trained by D J C Racing Stables
If ever there was a horse that deserved a win it is this five year old. He very nearly won the BC Classic as a three year old and has nearly $4,000.000 in prize money which is made even more remarkable considering he has only won six races out of twenty nine. His last win came in January 2016 but he has had two grade one placings in that time and is far from washed up. I cant help thinking his best days are behind him but i will be cheering for the old fella to have his last hurrah today.

8 Angelic General, trained by Gdp Inc
This seven year old will find it tough from the outside gate but has collected thirty places in his long career including twelve wins so is no forlorn hope. He won the grade three Hooper over this trip back in March but will have to be right on song to take this one.

SUMMARY
I rather like the sprinter Give Your All for this but it will be a close race with many chances.

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