Virgin Bet Cheltenham Festival Money Back Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Useful over hurdles and quickly made up into an even better chaser last season. It took a few outings for him to recapture his best this winter but he was right back on song to win at Musselburgh (2m) last month. Should give another good account.

Won his first 5 chase starts, the fifth success coming over 19f here in November. Wasn't at his best when a well-held third of 4 at Warwick last time but he's dipped to only 1 lb above the mark he scored from here. Fine at 2m.

Upped his game further this term with victories over C&D and at Sandown around the turn of the year. Behind a couple of today's rivals back here in January but he wasted no time returning to form when second (Hasankey third) at Wetherby 17 days ago. Ought to be very competitive again.

Won a pair of novice hurdles in early-2021 and came good over fences in 2m Southwell handicap in January. Gave Jonbon a run for his money in a match race at Warwick since, although he was seen to maximum effect having briefly slipped clear. Only nudged up 1 lb for that. Player back in handicap.

Started the season with back-to-back wins in 4-runner races at Kelso. Good third (Mackenberg fifth) in a competitive race over C&D in January and a bad mistake around halfway proved costly in the Musselburgh race won by Pay The Piper since (probably still in form).