David Pipe has high hopes Low Key can go one better in the Betfred Cesarewitch than Mamlook, whom he saddled to finish second in the Newmarket stamina test six years ago.
The dual-purpose eight-year-old was assured of his place in the line-up when picking up a 4lb penalty for winning the Cesarewitch Trial over the course and a distance last month.
Leading apprentice Tom Marquand, who was in the plate that day, will again take a valuable 3lb off the ante-post favourite.
Low Key was one of 56 horses left in the historic two and a quarter mile handicap following the five-day confirmation stage.
"He has been favourite for the race since landing the trial over the course and distance last month and he sneaks into the field towards the bottom of the weights," the Nicholashayne handler told www.davidpipe.com.
"He will once again be partnered by champion apprentice-elect Tom Marquand, who will take a handy 3lb off his back.
"I have been very pleased with his preparation and I hope to go one better than when Mamlook finished runner-up for me in 2009.
"Any rain between now and then will suit and I am optimistic that he will run a big race."
Coincidentally, the last winning favourite was Mamlook's conqueror Darley Sun.
Pipe has another possible in Alternatif, but he could be re-routed for the Irish equivalent if he does not make the cut at Newmarket.
"He could be joined by ex-French winning hurdler Alternatif, who needs just seven to come out to get a run," he said.
"He is also engaged in the Irish version on Sunday at the Curragh and could take his chance there should he not make the cut for Newmarket."
Irish trainer Tony Martin, who struck with Leg Spinner in 2007, has last year's third Quick Jack, York handicap winner Heartbreak City, Artful City, Cassells Rock, Spacious Sky and Encrypted Message.
Willie Mullins has Digeanta and Renneti while Gordon Elliott completes the Irish interest with Eshtiaal and Bayan.
The Mark Johnston-trained Oriental Fox now heads the handicap after original top weight after Forever Now was withdrawn.
Sir Mark Prescott is well represented by William Of Orange, High Secret, Moscato, Deauville Dancer, Amour de Nuit and Sea Of Heaven.
Others in the mix include Nearly Caught, First Mohican and Gabrial's King.
