Betfred 'The Home Of Goals Galore' Handicap Chase

Useful performer in bumpers and over hurdles, but who has gradually come into his own switched to fences. A handicap mark of 129 was dispatched to the past with a seamless victory in the 2m4f Challenger Middle Distance Series Final at Haydock in March 2016 and this campaign started in novice events with victories at Wetherby and Huntingdon. No longer a novice, he's mixed intermediate chasing with hurdles, and just sneaks in here rated 135 with deep ground a worry, but this trip ideal.

Looked likely to be a promising Northern novice for previous trainer Michael Smith back in the spring of 2014, but has on the whole failed to fulfill that potential. Now zero from seven over fences, and twice played second fiddle to Keltus at Hexham last summer, and finished third (beaten favourite) on just his second start for this trainer at Catterick recently, so needs to find more to score.

On a hat-trick following victories at Uttoxeter (2m heavy) and Wetherby (2m3f good to soft), but now 12lb higher than for the first of those victories when he was somewhat a fortunate winner (Mumgo's Debut fell). Clearly versatile in terms of trip and will relish this ground, but with his best form generally in Staffordshire.

Course winner (2m) on heavy ground in December 2015 but has won over this trip since at Ayr in March 2016 (rated 110). A game winner back at that Scottish venue in December (2m2f), but this mark of 120 has appeared just a shade too high since. Playing for a place.

Thrived under this rider during late 2015/early 2016 winning four times from marks ranging from 80-113, but only third of five with that partnership renewed at Sedgefield last month, and this looks a stronger race with the inclusion of Ballybolley.

Owner and regular Newcastle sponsor saddled a well backed winner here recently in Applaus, and this horses sole career success came at this track in February 2014 (2m6f novices hurdle). However, he has plenty on his plate here on return from a lengthy absence and is opposed in this grade.