Betting Better With Sky Bet Handicap

Did well on AW last year, gaining second career victory at Southwell (11.1f) in July. Better for return when second at Chester in May but soft ground would be a slight concern.

Career best when winning 14-runner Cumberland Plate at Carlisle (11f, soft) and shaped as if still in good form at Chester since, the step up in trip on testing ground stretching him. Not taken lightly.

Dual purpose performer who added to his tally at Chester (1¼m) last July. Has struggled in varied events since but did at least halt the slide (following wind op) when fourth in 8-runner handicap back at that venue (11.3f, soft) 15 days ago. Task now is to build on that.

Twice a winner on the Flat last summer for Richard Hannon. However, poor form over hurdles for current yard so bit to prove back in this sphere.

Hasn't fulfilled his early 3-y-o promise though at least made more of an impact off his reduced mark when third of 13 in handicap at this course (10.2f, good, 16/1) 15 days ago.

Pair of 1½m Ripon wins last summer and added to his tally when a smooth winner at Carlisle in June. Caught too far back in the Cumberland Plate back there next time but quickly resuming winning ways over C&D 2 weeks ago despite a slow start. Remains of interest.

Fairly useful 7f juvenile winner who resumed after 7 months off/gelded with an excellent second of six in 7.5f Beverley handicap. Efforts since have been a bit underwhelming, however (high head carriage).

Good second in Ripon handicap over this trip on yard debut at the beginning of June but unable to build on that both starts since, 4½ lengths fourth of 10 to Gibside in handicap at this C&D (good to soft) 15 days ago. 6 lb better off with winner here.

Cracksman 3-y-o who confirmed himself progressive when forging clear to score at Carlisle 16 days ago and needs considering up 6 lb.