The winner of this race 12 months ago on good ground (also handles soft) and he ran well in the face of a stiff task when fourth in another Grade 2 at Sandown in April; returns to the fray with his stable going well; should make a bold bid to follow up last year's success despite a penalty.
Half-brother to the high-class 2m hurdler Saldier and he made an excellent start to his own hurdling career last term, winning his first four races (all at around 2m in the mud), including the Grade 2 Finale at Chepstow, and faring best of the British when third in the Triumph at Cheltenham; gives the impression he'll be at least as effective over this longer trip; still has untapped potential and he's a very interesting contender against his elders.
Talented hurdler but so often the bridesmaid, often in very good company; ran well when fifth in last season's Champion Hurdle, and last month's second in a small field at Sligo (2m2f, yielding) should have blown away the cobwebs after nearly six months off; again unlikely to be far away.
Steadily progressive last season, beaten narrowly by Golden Ace at Taunton (2m3f, soft) and posting a personal best when fourth of 21 in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham (2m5f, soft) in March; went down narrowly in Grade 2 novice at Cheltenham in between and he's well worth another go at this level; still unexposed and has to be seriously considered.
Gained four wins from six attempts during 2021-22 novice hurdle campaign and he has become a high-class chaser since, winning Listed event at Kelso (2m7f, good to soft) in March; has a good reappearance record and he's impossible to discount, although others may have more speed at this trip.
One of the success stories of last season, winning all four of her hurdles races including the mares' novice at the Cheltenham Festival (2m1f, soft); signed off with an easy success in a Listed race there (2m4f, good) in April; will need further improvement to extend her winning run but she may not have reached her limit just yet.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
