Eddie Mapp Memorial Grassroots Hunters' Chase

Off time: 16:25 | Winning time: 6m 7.20s

Virak²³

Age: 10| Weight: 12-4| J: Miss N Parker⁽⁵⁾| T: Mrs R Loxton| OR: 127| CD

8/11

Classy multiple chase winner at up to 3m, before switching to this sphere last season and winning two hunter chases. Unbeaten in four this term (three point-to-points) having decisively won last month Ascot.

Form: 03-1111

Now Ben¹⁶

Age: 11| Weight: 11-10| J: Alex Edwards| T: P Rowley| OR: 110| CD

11/10

Winner of three Open point-to-points last season and made a winning seasonal debut at Cottenham (3m, good-to-firm) before Christmas. 22L second over this C&D latest (has won here before), looks second-best in this match despite point success since.

Form: 1-1P121

Forecasts

Virak (8/11), Now Ben (11/10)

He's unbeaten in four this season and VIRAK after making hay in point-to-point and recording a pleasing Ascot success last month back in this sphere. He looks to have been handed a fine chance to go in again with just one rival. Former C&D winner and second here last month, Now Ben will certainly keep him honest.