Goes well at Ascot and ran respectably in the face of a stiff task when fifth in 2m3f Grade 2 event here four weeks ago, but he has another stern assignment here and he folded tamely on his only previous attempt at 3m.
Thorough stayer, best known for his exploits over fences (respectable fourth at Cheltenham on reappearance); ran well from the front when third to Crambo in this race 12 months ago, but if anything this is a stronger contest and Sam Twiston-Davies prefers Potters Charm.
Reliable 10yo; has suddenly got the winning habit this term, following success in conditions race at Sligo with another in Grade 2 at Navan (2m4f, soft to heavy; gamely); however, this is tougher and he's unproven at 3m.
Bidding for a hat-trick of Long Walk Hurdles but has become inconsistent and found little when tailed off over 2m3f here four weeks ago; stepping back up in distance should be a big help and he's impossible to discount, but others look much safer.
Last season's Pertemps Final winner (3m, good to soft); good efforts in Grade 2 events at Wetherby and Newbury this autumn, 6l fourth to Impose Toi in latter; likely to give his running again but needs more.
Four wins at 2m7f/3m for Dan Skelton, including Grade 2 event, but he showed little at 80-1 on reappearance/stable debut here (2m3f) last month; returning to this trip is a positive but he still has plenty to prove.
Lightly raced and progressive; took the rise in class in his stride when winning Grade 1 novice at Aintree (2m4f, good) in April, and he was a very good second when stepped up in distance for similar event at Punchestown (3m, yielding) later that month; still has untapped potential and he's high on the list after eight months off.
Upwardly mobile 7yo with a fine strike-rate; has taken his form to a higher level this term, winning handicap at Aintree and Grade 2 Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury (3m, soft; beat Strong Leader in tight finish); 6lb worse off with Strong Leader today but he may not have reached his limit just yet.
French-trained 6yo; won a 3m Grade 2 novice hurdle at Cheltenham last winter and posted a career best when chasing home a classy type in Grade 1 event at Auteuil (3m, heavy) five weeks ago; however, that still leaves him with an uphill task on the figures.
Smart novice (Grade 1 winner) at up to 2m5f last term and he ran well when third in 2m3f Grade 2 here four weeks ago; has a bit to find on ratings with some of these but he's still unexposed, especially over 3m+, and his pedigree gives hope that he'll improve for the trip; might be the answer.
Solid contender who went down narrowly to Impose Toi in Grade 2 at Newbury (3m, soft) last month and meets that rival on 6lb better terms; ran poorly when favourite for this race 12 months ago but otherwise he has plenty in his favour.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
