CPMS Novices' Champion Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Successful twice over hurdles last season and has been playing at a high level since making winning chase debut in Newbury handicap in November, including when a fine third (in this headgear) in the Plate at Cheltenham last month. Tough and likeable type who should go well again back up in trip.

Winning hurdler and better form switched to maiden chases this term, progressing with each run. Opening mark looks a handy one, especially as he has more to offer still.

Useful winning hurdler who failed to complete on chase debut on return but bettered hurdles form when second in novice handicaps at Exeter (19f, heavy) and Newbury (23f, soft). Easy to forgive next run at the Cheltenham Festival and could have a part to play.

Quickly made into a useful chaser this term, winning a handicap at Newbury in February. However, that form has suffered some knocks, and he struggled in the Golden Miller at Cheltenham since.

Hurdles winner who has improved for switch to chasing, opening account equipped with headgear in handicap at Southwell (20.4f). Went close at Wetherby in February but that is sandwiched in between 2 below-par efforts, including at Sandown 5 weeks ago. Up in trip.

Maiden hurdle winner and further progress sent chasing this year, winning handicap at Wincanton on return prior to finishing a very good second at Kempton. Looked amiss back there last time and since undergone a wind op. No surprise if he bounced back.

Fair hurdler/chaser for Paul Webber and much improved since joining this yard, winning for the third time this season at Kempton in February. Almost made it 4 wins from his last 4 completed starts at Uttoxeter since and he remains of interest.