Betting Better With Sky Bet Maiden Hurdle (GBB Race)

Second when falling 2 out sole start in points and made an encouraging Rules debut when second of 14 in a Ballinrobe bumper in May. Sold out of Jonathan Sweeney's yard for £31,000 later that month but December's hurdles debut wasn't encouraging.

Well held in bumper and little to shout about in 3 starts in this sphere.

Malinas gelding who stepped up on his debut effort after 6 months off when runner-up in a Bangor bumper in October. Step up in trip looks a good move now hurdling.

Every chance when falling at the last on sole start between the flags and didn't shape at all badly when third on Rules debut in a Uttoxeter bumper. Well worth a second look now that he tackles hurdles.

Flemensfirth gelding from a good family. Runner-up in Irish points at second attempt and forged clear to land 5-runner bumper at Uttoxeter in March. Placed both starts over hurdles to end 2022 and slight step up in trip will suit. The one to beat.

In good hands but looks a long-term project.

Well-made gelding who was progressive in bumpers. Better than result suggests on hurdles bow on the back of a wind op last month, a bad mistake 2 out stopping him in his tracks. More to come. Tongue tie on.

€28,000 3-y-o, £35,000 5-y-o, Fame And Glory gelding. Half-brother to useful hurdler Monkshood and fairly useful chaser Lilith, stays 25f. Dam (c100/h108) bumper/2m hurdle winner. Placed both completed starts in Irish points (latest Mar 2022).

£70,000 5-y-o, Frammassone gelding. Half-brother to bumper winner Storm of Intrigue. Won second start in Irish points in April and displayed plenty of ability when runner-up on hurdles debut at Leicester, held back by mistakes. Should have more to offer and one of the more appealing runners here.

Looks a handicap project over hurdles.

No impact both starts 22 months apart.