Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race)

High-class chaser at his best but it's been some time since he's threatened to win a race over the larger obstacles. Potenetially well treated on rare outing over hurdles but others are easier to have confidence in.

Won 3 times in a productive first season over hurdles last term and very good start to present campaign when second in a premier handicap at Haydock. Perhaps not seen to best advantage when disappointing in mares event last time but handicapper hasn't relented.

Career best when winning 10-runner handicap hurdle (8/1) at Cheltenham (24f, good to soft) 26 days ago, asserting decisively approaching last. Still lightly raced and holds claims again despite racing from 8 lb higher mark now.

Made frame in Scottish National last season but he's made no impression in a pair of starts over hurdles this term. Others are easier to fancy.

Only his second start for new yard when winning this race last year and in good form since, again running up to his best when 7¼ lengths third of 5 to The Changing Man in handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (23.3f, soft) 68 days ago. Respected.

Back on track returned to this sphere following a break, going close at Ludlow prior to decisive victories at Catterick and Ayr (both at around 2½m on good to soft). 4 lb rise for latest success looks very fair indeed and should go well again in bid to complete the hat-trick.

Proved better than ever to spring a 50/1 surprise in 13-runner handicap hurdle at Aintree (20f) early on last month. Not in same form (jumped none too fluently mid race) at Haydock (18.9f) since but better showing here not ruled out, with return to 3m promising to suit.

Completed a handicap hat-trick when easily scoring at Uttoxeter (23f) in November and should have completed the 4-timer when second of 13 in handicap hurdle at Taunton (23.9f, good to soft, 3/1) 28 days ago, nabbed late after idling. Shortlisted again despite further 5 lb rise.

Seemingly hard to train but hasn't yet ran a bad race when he's seen the track, finishing a creditable fourth of 15 in handicap hurdle (10/1) at Kempton (21f, soft) on Boxing Day. Should give another good account.

Won at Plumpton around this time last year but hasn't troubled the judge since and was pulled up in handicap hurdle at Sandown (23.4f, soft) 55 days ago. Others preferred.

Won 3 times last term, including at Kempton on final start. Respectable third of 7 in handicap there (24.6f, soft) 31 days ago but probably needs more to figure in this higher grade. Cheekpieces on 1st time.

Won 4 times at around 3m in a very productive 2021/22 season, including over C&D. Surely found trip inadequate on return and though is tougher company he usually contests, he's not ruled out of making the frame.