Prolific point-to-point winner who landed this contest last year (soft) on one of only two times that he has entered such a contest (was runner-up in the other). Clearly a solid proposition and seems to handle any ground.
Another who has won plenty of point-to-points and a hunter chase. Runner-up both here and at Doncaster in similar races this season, the latter being against a very good yardstick. These look to be his optimum conditions and he is the one to beat.
Has won a couple of point-to-points but that was some time ago and despite being runner-up in a couple of those events last season, his level of form is some way short of what is required to win this.
Multiple winner in the amateur code and comes here on the back of success, though form nothing like strong enough to trouble a couple of these if they are on song.
Was good enough to win a competitive Sandown handicap hurdle when with Nicky Henderson in 2009, but has not won under rules since 2012, although he does come here in form after taking a members' point-to-point for the second year in succession last time out. Unlikely to be good enough.
Forecasts
Ardea (8/15), Thetalkinghorse (5/2), Shantou Prince (9/1), Tasheba (33/1), Road West (66/1)
ARDEA runs to a consistent level of form whether in victory or defeat and can be rewarded for that with a second hunter chase win here, while last year's winner Thetalkinghorse is very much the danger. Tasheba should prove to be next best.
Ardea
Thetalkinghorse
Tasheba
Prize Money
1st: £1,976.002nd: £608.003rd: £304.00
MOST READ RACING
Follow & Track
Your favourite horses, jockeys and trainers with My Stable