Placed in Grade Two company over hurdles, this likeable mare impressed with a decisive novices' chase win here over three miles in November, after which her trainer declared that she was ready to "take on the boys." Was unable to make an impression in the Grade Three Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase last time. She is back for more here and despite the drop in trip she can go very well taking on novices once more.
Dual novices' hurdle winner on soft and heavy ground. Highly tried last time, this looks to be his trip and the form of his Bangor run in November has worked out well enough, though the yard not enjoying a great run at present.
Seen only three times since justifying short odds to land a Uttoxeter maiden hurdle just over two years ago. Trainer has a good record at this track and may well elicit improvement from this gelding, who put up a creditable effort on his sole chase start last time.
In spite of a BHA rating of 130, this French import has won only once from 18 starts under rules. That said, he has contested three Grade Ones in the past year making the frame in one of those over hurdles. Far from disgraced on his chasing debut behind the talented Buveur D'Air at Haydock, he still hs a bit to prove after failing to complete last time out.
Forecasts
Rock Gone (6/5), Actinpieces (9/4), Never Equalled (5/1), Chic Name (15/2)
A potentially trappy contest, with something to prove for all four contestants. Chic Name has been keeping good company and with the age allowance looks to have claims, though he was pulled up last time. Rock Gone represents a yard whose runners here are always worth consideration and he should improve for his debut over fences, while Never Equalled would carry greater confidence if his stable's runners were in better form. Despite her win here effectively negating her sex allowance, preference is for Actinpieces, who is proven in this company and should not mind the drop in trip,
1. Actinpieces
2. Rock Gone
3. Chic Name