Nirvana Spa 1965 Chase (Grade 2) (GBB Race)

Only defeat in an excellent 2022/23 campaign came when unable to live with Shishkin over C&D in February. Rounded off the season with a deserved first Grade 1 success at Aintree. Should give a good account but highly likely Shishkin will have too much for him if at the top of his game.

Firmly back on track after a wind op when pulling 16 lengths clear of Pic D'Orhy in C&D Grade 1 in February. Jumping errors probably cost him a win in Ryanair at Cheltenham but he underlined what a top-class chaser he is on his day when scoring at Aintree (3m) in April. Cheekpieces on. Hard to beat.

Smart and consistent performer but Pic D'Orhy was 7 lengths ahead of him in Aintree Grade 1 on final start last season. Gave it his usual good shot when second in Old Roan back at Aintree on reappearance but will need Shishkin to underperform if he's to go close here.

Had a good first season over fences but his limitations were exposed in Grade 1 novice company in the spring and he's surely up against it again on his reappearance.