Pointing Pointers Dick Saunders Novices' Hunters' Chase

Fairly useful hurdler for Paul Nicholls who won both his points for new connections and landed the odds with the minimum of fuss on hunter chase debut at Wincanton (25.1f, heavy) 14 days ago. Looks the one to beat.

Fairly useful hurdler for Gary Moore in 2022/23 who won a point for new connections in December. Warrants respect on first start in hunters.

Winning pointer but sole effort under Rules left plenty to be desired. Likely best watched.

Multiple point winner who was well supported when third of 9 in hunter chase at Warwick (24f, good to soft, 5/4) 24 days ago. Likely player, particularly if improvement is forthcoming in his jumping.

Fairly useful performer for Willie Mullins in 2023/24 who has won 1 of his 3 starts between the flags. Makes hunter chase bow here and is worth monitoring in the market.

Multiple point winner who shaped with some promise when third of 13 in hunter chase at Cheltenham (26f, good to soft, 11/1) on NH debut 21 months ago. Entitled to need this first run since, however.

Showed plenty of ability in Ireland earlier in his career and performed well in points for this stable last year. However, recent efforts have been below par and others make more appeal.

£3,000 3-y-o, Ocovango gelding. Dam unraced sister to useful bumper winner/useful hurdler (stayed 3m) Black Harry. Proved consistent between the flags and could prove dangerous on hunter chase bow, particularly if the market vibes are strong.

Proved disappointing on final starts for Henry De Bromhead in Ireland and failed to complete on debut for new yard in point in December. Bit to prove at present.

€16,000 3-y-o, £6,500 5-y-o, Vendangeur mare. Winless in points and not seen for 14 months so readily opposed on Rules debut here.