The second race of ten on the Saturday card of January 31 is confined to locally bred four-year-olds and upward, along with imported four-year-olds and upward who are non-winners of two.
Six horses are entered to compete over 7 ½ furlongs, with The Quick Galloper’s take on the possible outcome shared with readers on this website.
1 – LOCKDOWN
Lockdown, after securing his second career victory on June 21, 2025, has struggled to add another win in seven subsequent outings. Those attempts included ambitious runs in the St Leger and the Winston Griffiths Classic, where he showed grit but fell short against stronger company. The return to 7 ½ furlongs is a positive, as the distance suits his running style. With the addition of a tongue tie, Lockdown could find renewed focus. If positioned close to the leaders and allowed to stalk the pace, he has a genuine chance to strike in the lane.
2 – PRINCE ROY
This bay colt has found life at the non-three level challenging. In six attempts, his best finish has been a distant third, trailing the winner by 12 lengths. Prince Roy has not progressed as connections might have hoped, and on current form, he cannot be recommended for top honours in this contest.
3 – MR LEE
Mr Lee has two wins to his name but has struggled when tested in Overnight Allowance company, finishing well behind the principals. While he has shown flashes of ability, he appears to need more seasoning before he can consistently handle the non-three class. Improvement is possible, but victory here looks unlikely.
4 – I’M OUTSTANDING
Persistence paid off for I’m Outstanding, who required six starts to notch his second win, achieved at seven furlongs. That effort came in his most recent race, and he now steps into non-three company for the first time. Under new connections, he could be a rejuvenated force. If allowed to dictate terms from the front without interference, I’m Outstanding has the tactical speed to make rivals chase in vain.
5 – JOYFULL SURPRISE
Joyfull Surprise was soundly beaten by I’m Outstanding at seven furlongs but rebounded to claim his second win over the longer trip of nine furlongs and 25 yards. This marks his first attempt at non-three, and while he has shown stamina, he may need time to adjust to the sharper pace and higher demands of this class.
6 – STAR QUEST
Star Quest’s form has tailed off significantly in recent outings. Without signs of revival, expectations remain low, and a turnaround in fortunes is not anticipated here.
THE QUICK GALLOPER’S VERDICT
This six-horse field presents a mix of proven winners stepping up and others still searching for consistency. Lockdown is well-suited to the 7 ½ furlongs and could finally break through with the tongue tie applied, provided he sits close to the pace. I’m Outstanding, fresh off his second win and now under new connections, looms as the main danger—especially if he secures an uncontested lead. Joyfull Surprise may improve with experience at this level but looks a step behind the top two.
Verdict: The race appears to rest between Lockdown and I’m Outstanding, with preference given to Lockdown for his proven competitiveness and suitability to the trip.
