Useful hurdler at up to 2m5f who made a satisfactory start to chasing career when third of six at Exeter (2m3f, good to soft) three weeks ago; will need to build on that performance but the step up in trip is an interesting move.
Well handicapped if judged on best two of four hurdle runs last season but his record is very mixed and he made a low-key chasing debut when fifth at Kempton (3m, good) last month; sports first-time cheekpieces; still very unexposed as a stayer but not easy to predict; tongue-tie removed.
Low-mileage 6yo who held on well to make a winning seasonal/chase debut at Taunton (2m7f, good to firm) last month; only 3lb higher here and should be fine on soft ground; high on the list.
Dual chase winner (3m/2m7f) for Jane Williams last season; well beaten on last month's reappearance but fared much better when clear second at Exeter (3m6f, soft) three weeks ago and remains on a workable mark.
Didn't fire at Kempton in October, after a break, but arguably posted career-best performance when a clear second in first-time visor at Ascot (3m, good) last month; contender if coping with today's ground (handles good to soft but has avoided soft).
Launched chasing career with two good runs in spring 2024, the latter a small-field win at Newton Abbot (3m2f, good); not seen again until respectable third of five at Doncaster (3m2f, soft) last month but has possibilities if that outing has brought him on.
Kept on well to make winning seasonal debut here (2m4f, good to soft) three weeks ago and is now 3-7 over fences; not bred to benefit from this hike up in trip but recent 2lb rise is manageable if his stamina holds out.
Won 2m4f chase on this card one year ago (good to soft) and followed up over today's trip here in late January (heavy); last month's seasonal reappearance at Exeter was perfectly respectable and he's sure to be suited by the return to this track; might be the answer.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
