Dick Christian Novices' Chase

Off time: 13:40 | Winning time: 3m 54.2s

Burbank²⁷⁶

Age: 7| Weight: 10-12| J: N de Boinville| T: N J Henderson| OR: 142| DWS

8/13

Useful hurdler who won just once in that sphere in a Huntingdon maiden over this trip two years ago. 7L seventh in the Coral Cup last March, and returns after nine months off and wind surgery, reverting to chasing. Should be tough to beat.

Form: 2/06379-

Clondaw Castle¹⁹

Age: 7| Weight: 10-12| J: C Gethings| T: T R George| OR: 130| BF| D

6/4

Bumper and dual novice hurdle winner who improved for his chase debut when beaten just over 2L at Ludlow last time. Has experience on his side, but if his chief rival runs to his ability, he may again be found wanting.

Form: 1317-52

The Captain⁴⁹

Age: 6| Weight: 10-12| J: R T Dunne| T: Mrs Caroline BaileyWS

33/1

Five-race maiden who was below par over hurdles on his last two runs in the autumn. Has since had wind surgery and now goes chasing. Looks very much up against it in this field.

Form: 26-5308

Forecasts

Burbank (8/13), Clondaw Castle (6/4), The Captain (33/1)

Favourites have won five of the last six runnings of this race and if BURBANK is better for his wind operation last summer, then he should have too much class for his opponents on his chase debut. There will be those who want to take on the likely favourite and Clondaw Castle would be the one to oppose him with, but despite his chasing experience, he has a bit to find with the selection.