Ivan Straker Memorial Chase

Grand National entry who has proved to be quite a smart chaser winning at Perth and a Listed handicap chase at Aintree by 12 lengths last year. Has won four times at Kelso (only once over fences) and looks to have had his mark protected for the National with two runs over hurdles pre-Xmas. Now back over fences with the National weights out and this looks to be part of his build-up.

Good strike rate over fences (4/12) and won on his last start here, over a shorter trip, by nine lengths. That was a better effort than of late (attitude can be a little suspect) but he faces a tougher test today and has work to do at the weights.

Capable at this level but comes back from a fair absence and isn't getting any younger. Has been placed at Kelso on three occasions from four starts but it would be a surprise if he was tuned right up for this with work to do at the weights.

Stable won this last year with Unioniste and this looks to be a perfect opportunity (given the weight allowances) for him to get back to winning ways over fences. Has won three times over the larger obstacles but there are as many disappointments on his CV. Got things back on track at Cheltenham last time out when finishing second. Clearly has a fine chance here as he uses this as a stepping stone to a handicap chase at the Festival.