There were no fewer than 10 absentees - Babosso, Brav, Crack Chichi, Dar Said, Fassilado, Gejzir, Maxwil, Palmier, Pareto and Ulysse De Touzaine - following the second forfeit stage for this year's Gran Premio di Merano.

However, 11 horses remain on course for a crack at Sunday's race - Allen Voran, Alpha Speed, Alpha Two, Budapest, Demon Magic, Frolon, Imprezer, Martalin, Ole Companero, Rigoureux and Zarkali.

James Reveley, who has enjoyed back-to-back wins for French trainer Guillaume Macaire with Rigoureux and Chercheur D'or, is hoping to make it a hat-trick of wins.

Reveley speaking exclusively to www.cdhorseracingtours.com said: "I'm not sure whether I'll be riding Allen Voran or Rigoureux, both horses go into the race in really good form.

"Rigoureux has been busy winning quite a few races at some of the smaller tracks since returning from injury, while Allen Voran won at Auteuil in May and then ran a good prep race in Merano in June. He did everything right and took to the course and fences, but we were just nabbed on the line and finished second.

"I couldn't honestly split the two and I don't think they'll be much between them. Allen Voran has age on his side (six years old), but lacks the experience of Rigoureux, who goes into the race as a previous winner, but is quite a bit older (11 years old).

"Both can handle any going and I'll just have to wait and see which one Mr Macaire decides I'll ride," he concluded.

The final declarations are made on Wednesday (26 September).