[4] Fearless Champ started as the 10-1 ante post favourite followed by Pall Mall Stakes champion Hong Kong Mike (12-1) and Daleys Gold (14-1).

[6] In round one Hong Kong Mike and Rugged Mick won well but the following night weather conditions played a big part in the elimination of Fearless Champ when heavy rain contributed to his exit.

Smokey Pete caught leader Daleys Gold to win his heat and Keeper Tom won a race that ended with Laurels champion Amenhotep sustaining severe cuts.

[6] Daleys Gold won his quarter-final by ten lengths missing a melee that saw Keeper Tom finish third but go lame and add his name to the list of casualties.

[6] Daleys Gold and One to Note vied for the lead in the first semi-final before bumping caused them to lose ground meaning Walstone, House Hunter and Jack the Hiker all qualified.