Recently joined top yard from France, where he won a heavy ground extended 2m 1f hurdle on his final start at Auteuil in November. Stable's runners still going well and this gelding is likely to be a leading light here.
Penalised for wins both here (C&D) and at Sandown in November and December, both on good to soft, but ran well enough over further at Taunton last time. Will probably appreciate the drop in trip given the forecast conditions are slightly more testing and will be tough to beat.
Placed in a bumper and two novices' hurdles, showing improved form at Wetherby last time when running well behind a previous bumper winner. Yard rampant at the moment and likely that he can improve further and take a close hand.
Well beaten on his debut in a Newbury bumper last month, though likely to be well prepared for his hurdling debut. Stamina-laden pedigree, so whatever he achieves here he is likely to better over further.
Forecasts
Dashing Oscar (8/15), Cousin Oscar (10/3), Cosmos Des Obeaux (9/2), Subtle Soldier (150/1), Kilmoganny (200/1), Fulgus (200/1), Marble Mist (200/1)
A few of these are just starting out in this sphere and it appears best to concentrate on those with proven form, so a narrow preference is for COUSIN OSCAR to come good in receipt of weight from both Cosmos Des Obeaux and Dashing Oscar. The latter pair both have winning form, hence their penalties, and will be no pushovers, but Donald McCain's runner is improving with each run and looks the most likely winner.
1. Cousin Oscar
2. Dashing Oscar
3. Cosmos Des Obeaux