Racing: Punters' Guide - Spunkie has scope to be a top stayer

Benatom: Fair stayer on his day. Fit from hurdling but hasn't won for a while and has plenty of weight.

Spunkie: Highly progressive last year and a fine third to Spirit of Love in the Cesarewitch. Should go well again.

Prairie Falcon: Dual scorer at Haydock and Goodwood last September but then well beaten on soft ground.

Tarxien: Won three times in 1998 but at distances short of two miles. Honest sort who acts on any going.

Renzo: Successful over hurdles this winter having previously won on the Flat at Doncaster. Sometimes unreliable.

Far Cry: In fine form on the all-weather recently and continues to go from strength to strength. Stays well and hails from a good stable.

King Of Mommur: Third in two minor events last season but remains a maiden. Tries a new trip.

Danegold: Becoming a prolific winner on the level and over hurdles and again seems in very good form following his Doncaster success last week.

Sea Freedom: Decent staying handicapper - could be spot on after his Doncaster fourth to Danegold last week. Royal Ascot winner in 1997.

Salaman: Very lightly raced nowadays and difficult to fancy.

Bridie's Pride: Gutsy front-runner. Improved in 1998, winning at Ascot and sixth in the Cesarewitch. Still lightly weighted.

Yes Keemo Sabee: Possibly improving - a good second to Danegold at Doncaster last week - but still looking for his first victory.

Conclusion: SPUNKIE was easily the most progressive of these last year and could develop into a leading stayer this term. Sea Freedom, Danegold and Far Cry are others to consider.