Mal & Mo Fox Memorial Vase Handicap Chase

Made a winning start for current yard at Warwick last September but has failed to reproduce that form since, folding tamely and pulling up at Worcester last time. Refitted cheekpieces need to have a positive effect.

Back to form when second over C&D at the start of June. Still had a bit to do in a share of fourth when unseating 2 out at Hexham since.

Scored 3 times over hurdles for Olly Murphy in 2021. Finally pieced it altogether over fences when winning a C&D handicap 16 days ago, seeming to benefit from a switch to front-running tactics. Rated in the high 120s not too long ago so should still have handicapping scope after a 4 lb rise.

Fair Flat performer in Germany and similar standard over hurdles, winning pair of 2m handicaps last autumn. Well-held fourth in 2 comeback outings over hurdles but he was better than the result at Fontwell latterly (helped force a strong gallop). First-time cheekpieces are added for chase debut.

Maiden chase winner in Ireland but has largely struggled in handicaps in Britain, weakening when unseating 2 out at Southwell recently on his first outing for another new yard.

Has largely run well in defeat since the turn of the year, finishing second of 6 at Hexham on latest start 14 days ago. Has first-time blinkers added to his regular tongue strap.

Took advantage of his falling mark over C&D last month and chased home the reopposing Restandbethankful back here 16 days ago. Meets that rival on 4 lb better terms (excluding jockey claims) but it may not be quite enough to turn the tables. Should go well again, though.

Returned from 5 months off to finish a good ¾-length second of 8 to Marajman over C&D last month. Claims if in similar form but consistency hasn't been his strong suit to date.

Course winner. 11/1, below-form sixth of 8 in handicap chase at Hexham (2m, good) 22 days ago. Back up in trip. Others more persuasive.