Bounced right back to form at Market Rasen a fortnight ago (not unexpected, was well backed) and despite an 8lb rise for that, it still leaves him on a workable mark. Has followed up a win with another before, so with trip and likely ground ideal, every chance of putting another win on the board.
May well have needed the run at Wetherby in March after a short break, so in the circumstances it was decent effort to finish a close up third. Handicapper has kindly dropped him a couple of pounds for that, and he's gone close over this C&D in the past, so plenty going for him.
Pops up occasionally and won one at Market Rasen last October, but has found life hard from her new handicap mark in two stars since. Slowly coming down the handicap and conditions fine, but does need to bounce back from those efforts.
Lost a shoe on his latest start at Newbury, so possibly excused that run on that score, and it was a more competitive race than this anyway. On a good mark on historical form but possibly suited by a bit shorter, and best watched today.
Has finished runner up on his three last starts, although in truth was well beaten when seen at Newcastle in early April. Beaten favourite four of his last six starts and beginning to look a frustrating type, with his jumping possibly holding him back. Best watched.
Very lightly raced for a 12-y-o, with just the 12 starts under Rules to date. Did actually win a point-to-point over this C&D back in 2015 and conditions today ideal, so despite the absence, isn't totally discounted. Market may give a clue.
Forecasts
Ganbei (5/2), Nightline (11/4), Golden Investment (3/1), Rockchasebullett (7/1), Emerald Rose (11/1), Don't Hang About (11/1)
The top two in the handicap look the ones to concentrate on, and NIGHTLINE may be ready to strike after blowing the cobwebs away at Wetherby in late March. He looks handicapped to win one now and this wouldn't be the hardest contest in the world to win. Ganbei can chase him home and the race for third can be won by Golden Investment.