BALLYNORA was disadvantaged by the race shape, particularly due to coming back in trip. There appeared more speed on paper than what eventuated. Sound effort all the same and she is the one I’d like to mark with the brightest highlighter from this. PHILONIZE settled well and was able to dictate from the front. Solid kick and although there was query at 1100m, she put that to bed quickly. I’d still be wary with her past 1100m, however good merit and can follow.

THE BILLIONAIRE was clearly the horse to beat on paper and was clearly the pick of the runners to follow post race. Set a good tempo, kicked and sustained. Can handle stepping up in grade now at 1200 but wouldn’t oppose dropping back to 1100m. THRILL KILL picked up late, taking good ground from near the tail. Stick in same / similar grade at 1200m again. ALSVIOR returned well given how close he sat to that speed. He’s suited sticking at the same trip now and worth looking at closely next start. This grade likely sees him out.

This wasn’t a strong edition of The Hill Stakes like I believe most would have forecast. Pannell’s ride won the race, holding the short priced BLACKCOMB to his inside in running. Left him pocketed, diving back to the inside behind plodders. Not sure we can take too much from the race other than cite the obvious, BLACKCOMB and CERBERUS the two that can go around in this type of company and be competitive. Wary of weak form line.

A little bit of inexperience from Price on LOHN RANGER, not crossing immediately, allowing those under him opportunity to position up. There was merit in both his run and GAZE GRIS, boxing on soundly in good figures. 1st, 2nd and 3rd really had it set up to finish off and the overall figure was enough to consider paying attention to next start.