totepool Scottish Future Champions Novices' Chase

Doubly penalised for victories at Sedgefield (November) and Wetherby (December), and hasn't totally convinced with his fencing so far (unseated rider last time). However, is versatile in terms of trip and ground, and has earned a rating of 145, so holds a clear chance if handling this sharp track.

Talented hurdler (140's rated) who made a low key start over fences notching up victories at Newton Abbot and Fontwell during September before seeing off Shantou Village at Wincanton in early November. Mixed it in tough handicaps thereafter, running out a 14/1 winner of the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham, having previously struggled in the BetVictor Gold Cup at the same track a few weeks earlier. Beaten (3m) when falling at the last at Kempton back in novice company on Boxing Day, with this an ideal opportunity to bounce back.

Makes his rules fencing debut (two none completions in Irish point-to-points). Has shown little in three starts for this yard over hurdles, and barring accidents holds no chance against these rivals.

A three time winner over hurdles, including over this track (2m) from a mark of 134 in January 2016. Made his chasing debut at Wetherby in October (2m Good), but was no match for Double W's (Apterix fourth) in finishing third of four. Switched back to hurdles thereafter and had a recent pipe-opener on the AW at Lingfield, but a slightly odd campaign overall so far and wouldn't want too much rain.