Snowed In must have been disappointed that his hopes of winning in Saint-cloud were lost in translation. Moore must have fancied the chances of this grey gelding and to think a Claiming race across the sea affords prize money of 9K, compared to our insult of a purse, looked a wise move. A normally consistent type, he seemed to struggle in the final 100 yards in France and finished unplaced. To be fair, this son of this Dark Angel - for all of his limitations - has been a determined little horse. Considering he has been racing since the start of the Flat season, he probably deserves a well-earned rest. To have won over 5f and a narrow lose over 1m 2f shows great versatility. This mile trip shouldn't be a problem and if not regressed looks a sound each way bet.
Of the others, Anginola seems to be out of form, while the outsider will need one or two of the major fancies to run below par to hold any hope.
Conclusion: Cristal Gem looks a fair juvenile for this grade and with few miles on the clock gets the nod. Snowed In is a determined gelding who has been consistent bar his French encounter. If not regressed, has place claims.
HCE: ''Good to see Snowed In take this with his normal gutsy style. It pays to finish a race at this lowly grade and that was his trump card. Cristel Gem looked keen going to start and it is key that horses settle over this distance. She pulled too hard but still held every chance until Moore's youngster ground out a victory. The rest showed little.''