One from eight at this venue and has been running well in a couple of starts since the turn of the year. Useful hurdler and step up in trip could spark some improvement.
Without a win in five starts over C&D but has managed to hit the frame on a couple of occasions and is entitled to hold strong place claims in this contest.
Useful 142-rated chaser towards the end of the year and winner of this contest two years ago, his only start over C&D. Best form brings him in to the equation but his refusal to race last time is a slight concern.
75-rated handicapper for trainer Tom Dascombe with just a win at Chester to his name. Down the field on stable debut in a Fairyhouse maiden hurdle when last seen in December and best watched here.
Forecasts
Rashaan (13/8), Chess Grand Master (5/2), Kerosin (3/1), Political Policy (6/1), Zoffalee (33/1), Tomahawk Kid (33/1), Lusis Naturea (66/1)
The Galileo gelding CHESS GRAND MASTER can overcome the step up in trip here following a win at this venue last month over 1m4f. The six-year-old will face strong opposition from winner of this contest two years ago, Rashaan and the Denis Hogan-trained, Kerosin.