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Off time: 16:35 | Winning time: 5m 17.49s

Bullsempire²⁵

Age: 6| Weight: 10-12| J: Dave Crosse| T: C Hobson

33/1

Modest form in Point-to-points (wins were a walk over and a race where 2 completed). Poor form in bumpers and didn't show enough on hurdling debut to be of interest yet.

Form: 1-PP646

Champagne Vintage¹⁷

Age: 6| Weight: 10-12| J: L P Aspell| T: J R Jenkins

50/1

Poor form over hurdles and though this shorter trip is a plus, can't be fancied to trouble the big 2 in the market on evidence to date.

Form: 4/2-484P

Dogon²¹⁹

Age: 4| Weight: 10-12| J: H Cobden| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 129WS

5/4

2m 2f chase winner when trained in France. Pulled up in two of his three runs over hurdles for Paul Nicholls but they were in hot company and better should be forthcoming following a wind operation though does have stamina to prove.

Form: 231P2P-

The Wolf²¹⁰

Age: 5| Weight: 10-12| J: Adrian Heskin| T: O Murphy| OR: 125

4/7

Showed ability in better company when with Warren Greatrex last season and last run when third in Newbury handicap at this trip was his best. Now joined another stable and will welcome this drop in class in race with no depth.

Form: 437343-

Forecasts

The Wolf (4/7), Dogon (5/4), Bullsempire (33/1), Champagne Vintage (50/1)

A match on all known evidence and with his stamina guaranteed a narrow vote is awarded to THE WOLF ahead of Dogon who should feel the benefit of his wind operation since last seen. Bullsempire may win the private battle for minor honours.