Mitie Events & Leisure Novices' Hurdle

A tricky opener to the Ascot card, and a race where a number of the runners are stepping up in grade after making a reasonable early impression over hurdles. Count Meribel arrives seeking the hat-trick on the back of a couple of Carlisle successes, and he is tough, hardy and clearly goes well right-handed, so is much respected despite giving weight away to the majority of his rivals. Palmers Hill is unexposed, and very much the talking horse based upon his eye-watering £310,000 price tag. He will almost certainly have more to offer going forward, but his Uttoxeter maiden success isn't necessarily the strongest form on offer. Therefore, a token selection is the Alan King trained PERFECT HARMONY. He was beaten less than 10L by On The Blind Side on hurdles debut at Aintree last month, and we all know what that rather exciting winner has achieved at Cheltenham since.

1. Perfect Harmony
2. Count Meribel
3. Polydora