Magners Handicap Chase (For The Hugh Barclay Challenge Trophy)

Consistent performer who is weighted up to the best that he has produced here. Won here (2m4½f, soft) on his debut for this yard last time, having already scored six times for Charlie Longsdon and the return to this trip should be no problem. Trying to defy a 5lb rise.

Ended last season with back-to-back wins at Wetherby and Perth, the latter by 8L from 12lb lower and over 3m6½f (good). Handles cut, though trainer has stated that he prefers better ground. Profile suggests he has been fragile and also that he may need this run after a long break.

A point-to-point and dual hurdle winner who came good at the fourth time of asking over fences at Kelso last time (2m6½f, heavy). Handicapper has been kind enough in only putting him up 2lb and no reason why he can't find more over a trip that should hold no fears.

Not won since September 2014 when with Noel Meade, though not slipped much in the weights while with current yard, for whom he has made the frame four times. Recent efforts not encouraging, though yard in a bit better form now.

Has largely been progressive for a couple of years now, winning six of his eight completed starts in that period and going up 35lb as a result, often switching between hurdles and fences. Won on heavy ground over the former at Hereford last time and now back over the bigger obstacles, he could still be capable of making an impact.