Sky Bet Handicap (Heritage Handicap)

Three-time winner on turf/AW in France last summer. Not disgraced when midfield in pair of Meydan handicaps in January for Francis-Henri Graffard but has yet to get competitive in 3 outings for this yard, including with cheekpieces added last time.

Didn't cut much ice in 2 juvenile hurdles over the winter but his profile on the Flat is one of steady progression, edging ahead late on in 1½m Ascot handicap on Shergar Cup day. A 4 lb rise shouldn't prevent another prominent showing.

Made good strides in first season, including second in the very competitive Old Rowley Cup at Newmarket. Well held in the Duke of Edinburgh on his Royal Ascot reappearance but quickly back on track when second of 9 at Ripon (1½m) 4 weeks later, despite not looking at ease on the track. Respected.

Admirable veteran who showed he's still capable of useful form when snapping a losing run at Ayr (13f) in June. Good efforts in John Smith's Cup here and a Glorious Goodwood handicap since.

Has thrived since stepped up to 1½m this summer, winning here and at Chepstow. Conceded first run when narrowly denied in a Racing League handicap last week, suggesting his mark is still very workable. A must for the shortlist.

Has improved for a hood, winning a pair of 1¼m Chester handicaps last month, the latter by 4½ lengths. His strength at the finish on that occasion provides hope that 1½m might be within range.

Resumed with a creditable effort in defeat at Chester (18.5f) in May but 3 lesser efforts have followed. Remains to be seen whether this significant drop back in trip helps.

Going the right way, making all by 4 lengths in a 3-y-o only handicap at Sandown (1¼m, good) 15 days ago. 1½m seems likely to suit him on that evidence and he's of obvious interest up against largely older and more exposed opposition.

Back to form when winning at Hamilton (13f) in June. Also a creditable second of 5 at Ayr (13f again) 46 days ago but he didn't look straightforward under pressure. Former C&D winner.

Dual winner (at up to 1½m) last term. Recorded good thirds in competitive handicaps at Naas and Epsom in May but well held back from a break at Galway 3 weeks ago.

Made a winning return at Doncaster in March and plenty of decent efforts in defeat since, including fourth of 7 in a Chepstow Racing League handicap 15 days ago. First attempt at 1½m.

Looked promising on debut last year and, after a couple of underwhelming efforts, got firmly back on track when readily landing a 9f Hamilton maiden in June. Built on that when second of 7 in 11f Glorious Goodwood handicap 3 weeks ago. Unexposed profile provides the hope for better again.