Tim Barclay Memorial Handicap Chase (Qualifier)

Has performed with credit since going chasing last season, winning one and being placed five times from ten starts. Didn't stay the trip when finishing midfield at Catterick two starts back but ran right up to form with a second to Special Catch at Sedgefield last time (winner ran respectably at Ayr earlier in the week). Goes well at the track (223 for figures here) and every chance off same mark as last time.

Poor strike rate for one of his ability (just one win in 19 starts) and doesn't always look the most cooperative type. Just two chase starts to date, and didn't jump well enough at Huntingdon or Kempton to get involved in either race. Fakenham not the place to bring one with jumping issues and is easily enough passed over.

Showed progressive form in Ireland for Robert Tyner over the past couple of seasons, winning four of his last seven starts (hurdles and fences) and showed a likeness for heavy ground. Didn't pull up any trees on debut for current yard at Uttoxeter and although this is easier, he still looks like he needs to come down a few pounds in the handicap before winning again.

Not seen for almost two years since finishing third in the Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown, and has changed trainers in the meantime. Handicapper has given him a chance on old form, and both trip and ground will be ideal, so it's just a case of whether he's fit enough to do himself justice. Watch the market for clues.

Consistent if hard to win with (one win from 13 chase starts, but placed another nine times) and although recent form is a bit inconsistent, he often travels well in his races and came close to winning again at Newcastle in November. Needs to be produced late as he finds little off the bridle, so short run in here will help in that respect. With trip and ground fine, another good run looks likely.

Only made five starts under Rules and ran a cracker on chase debut at Doncaster, doing best of those behind runaway winner Ypsilanti. Jumped well from the front and similar tactics are likely to be employed today. With the handicapper leaving him on the same mark and improvement probable, he has to be considered as one of the more likely winners.