Fit from a good run on the Flat when making it 4-11 over fences in valuable 3m4f Cheltenham handicap (soft) in November; should remain competitive off 5lb higher.
Dual Grade 2 hurdle winner in the 2022-23 season and he won the Grade 2 Rising Stars novice chase at Wincanton (2m4f, good to soft) in November 2023; absent for two years after but offered enough when 8l fourth to The Jukebox Man and recent Ascot winner Iroko in graduation event at Haydock (2m5f, good to soft) five weeks ago to suggest he retains all of his ability.
10yo who has held his own in several top handicap chases, including third in the 4m Scottish National in April; fell early on Aintree reappearance, so his subsequent sixth of 12 at Ascot (3m5f, good) was effectively his first start of the campaign; entitled to strip fitter now and he has been given a bit of a chance by the handicapper.
Quickly translated his useful hurdle ability to fences last winter, easily winning a three-runner novice at Leicester (2m4f, soft); however, he was a long way behind Knappers Hill when tailed-off last of five on last month's Haydock reappearance after wind surgery, leaving him with a bit to prove here.
Has advanced his form on all completed chase starts; won reappearance over C&D (good) in October and impressive 15l winner of the Rehearsal at Newcastle (2m7f, good to soft) on his completed start since; a further 10lb rise seems unlikely to stop this progressive 7yo from a yard in tremendous form.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
