League Of Friends Musgrove Hospital Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race)

Off time: 17:25 | Winning time: 4m 47.24s

Handlethekettle¹⁹⁴

Age: 6| Weight: 11-12| J: G Sheehan| T: Jamie Snowden| OR: 117WS

7/4

Only workmanlike when landing short odds at Worcester (2m) in September, although that race has thrown up winners. Well held in the Persian War following month and not seen since. Remains with potential having had a breathing operation.

Form: FF-215

Jackpot Des Bordes^t³²

Age: 6| Weight: 11-12| J: Freddie Gingell| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 117| C

4/9

Bumper/course hurdles winner who ran well in C&D novice in December and again in competitive Newbury novice handicap 5 weeks ago in first-time cheekpieces (left off now), taking a keen hold early. Obvious claims back down in class.

Form: 12-6124

Bara Tara³⁰

Age: 5| Weight: 11-5| J: Tom Broughton⁽⁵⁾| T: F O'Brien

50/1

Well held in Wincanton bumper/maiden hurdle (held back by inexperience) 10 weeks apart. Lots more needed up in trip.

Form: 96

Hector's Hope⁴⁴

Age: 7| Weight: 11-5| J: Bryan Carver| T: C J Down

125/1

Looks of little account.

Form: 00/6-PP

Forecasts

Jackpot Des Bordes (4/9), Handlethekettle (7/4), Bara Tara (50/1), Hector's Hope (125/1)

This should be a match between JACKPOT DES BORDES and Handlethekettle, with Paul Nicholls' charge narrowly taken to land a second Taunton win.