Bob Champion Cancer Trust Sussex Champion Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Won all 4 of his starts when completing last season, including this race, but has made little impact in 4 outings this term.

Has taken well to chasing this season, improving again when winning for the third time over fences in a 4-runner C&D handicap 6 weeks ago. However, was in the process of running below form when falling at Sandown (race won by Scarface) since so needs to bounce back.

Seems a better chaser than hurdler, jumping accurately when seeing off sole rival at Kempton (18f) in November. Not disgraced in Grade 2 there next time before decent second back in handicap company at Wincanton. Hood on 1st time. Player.

Promising individual who has made an excellent start in this sphere, just denied at Newbury on debut before going one better in good style there last month. Seems sure to win more races before the season is out.

Gradually getting the hang of things over fences, scoring over C&D in January before quickly resuming winning ways at Sandown last month. Must be respected.

Four-time winner over fences during first half of last season and impressed with his strength at the finish in a well-run race to go in again at Wincanton in November. Possible excuses both starts since so better showing wouldn't surprise.

Back-to-back chase winner last spring and plenty of good efforts in defeat have followed, not least when third off a 3 lb higher mark in a competitive Cheltenham handicap in November. Below par since, however, including when tried in a hood at Ascot last week.