Prince Philip Perpetual Challenge Trophy Handicap Chase

Left hurdling debut form well behind when winning novice at Perth and acquitted himself well under a penalty at Kelso. Well held from a stiff opening mark next time, however, and failed to complete sent chasing in a first-time tongue strap at Ayr 2 weeks ago. Remains with potential as a chaser.

Useful hurdle/chase winner for Willie Mullins but losing run stretches back to June 2022 and he hasn't set the world alight in 5 starts for present yard.

Won back-to-back handicap chases last winter and posted creditable efforts in defeat at Ludlow and Hereford during the spring. Shaped as if better for the run after 5 months off when fourth at Huntingdon but got no further than the second at Wetherby since (pulled hard back up in trip).

Has developed a patchy record but did hint at a revival following 6 months off when fifth of 15 in handicap chase at Carlisle (20f, good to soft) 35 days ago, no extra run-in. Lines up here with yard firmly amongst the winners if building on that now.

Easily opened his account in Irish points at third attempt and runner-up on 2 of his 3 completed starts in novice hurdles. Better than bare result on handicap bow at Southwell final start but stamina/fitness to prove on chase bow/return.

Made a winning chase debut at Kelso 13 months ago and having essentially struggled since, he stopped the slide after 3 months off when runner-up back at that venue last month. Didn't jump well enough from 2 lb out of the weights at Carlisle since but will find this less competitive.

Runner-up first 3 starts this season but well held both starts since. Needs to bounce back.

Resumed winning ways in 4-runner handicap chase at Wetherby (24.2f, good, 5/2) 12 days ago. Not sure to be in same form now.