Three wins over hurdles last May-December, latterly in a valuable handicap at Navan (3m1f, heavy); returned to chasing for his four starts since, all in major races, but he ended on a low note in May; first run since leaving Willie Mullins for 11,000 in late June; his new stable also runs Lihyan, so the market moves should be revealing.
3-3 in bumpers and the winner last autumn of two novice hurdles; progressive form when runner-up on heavy going in all three handicaps, the latest in 17-runner race over C&D in March when blinkered first time; that was a valuable contest and he should have leading claims in this event despite 5lb rise.
Peaked in 2019 and his only win since was a point-to-point in 2020, but his second at Newbury this March was off 3lb higher than today, so a case can still be made.
Usually ridden by 5lb claimer William Maggs; came from last for a clearcut win at Market Rasen (2m7f, good) in May and did the same in 14-runner race at Worcester (2m7f, good) three weeks ago; also acts on soft; not all races pan out so favourably for those tactics but he needs plenty of respect.
Well suited by Chepstow where he's registered his last four wins, the last two over fences this January (heavy) and April (good to soft); second on his only run at this track; had better form over fences than hurdles last term, which prompts a doubt today.
He's run every month this summer and run well since returned to hurdles for last four outings, all on good ground including a 2m7f win at Market Rasen on penultimate start (beaten a nose here the time before); also acts on good to soft; exposed but highly likely to give his running and be seriously involved.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
