Racing To School Riders' Programme Novices' Chase

Off time: 14:15 | Winning time: 4m 17.5s

Greaneteen¹³

Age: 6| Weight: 11-8| J: H Cobden| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 147| D

2/5

Promising hat-trick seeker who holds an Arkle Trophy entry. Impressed with wins at Ascot and Musselburgh of late, scoring with plenty in hand last time. Penalty makes life tougher but clearly in great heart and represents last year's winning yard.

Form: 611-011

Champagne Mystery⁷²

Age: 6| Weight: 11-3| J: N de Boinville| T: N J Henderson| OR: 144

9/4

Yard won this two years ago. Made winning chase bow at Ascot in November over 2m4f then well held when second over 2m5f to well regarded winner. Drops back in trip on much sharper track but has to be respected for top yard.

Form: U222-12

Eskendash²²

Age: 7| Weight: 10-12| J: Kielan Woods| T: Mrs P Sly| OR: 125| D

18/1

Went close here in novice handicap chase last month but this looks much tougher and has it all to do at these weights. Likely to find things happening a stride too quick for comfort.

Form: 25-85F2

Forecasts

Greaneteen (2/5), Champagne Mystery (9/4), Eskendash (18/1)

GREANETEEN is just preferred to Champagne Mystery in a race that makes up for the lack of quantity with two quality horses taking each other on. Despite having to concede 5lb, the selection may just get the better of the argument over his optimum trip. Champagne Mystery has to show he can cope with the drop back in distance but is useful and is slightly favorued at these weights on official figures. He won't be an easy nut to crack. Eskendash is a fair sort but looks to face a very stiff task in this company.