Assured Partners Handicap Hurdle (Div 1)

Progressive over hurdles, finishing second in a 2m handicap before looking suited by a step up in trip when getting off the mark in 19.5f Chepstow maiden in February. Should have more to offer in handicaps over 2½m+.

Sparked by a return to hurdling when winning handicaps at Southwell (20.5f) and Kempton (2m) this spring. Winning run ended but ran with credit again when third of 5 at Newcastle 19 days ago. Another 4 lb higher now but still respected.

Fair bumper performer who struck at the second time of asking over hurdles in 2m Wincanton maiden in February. Improved on that form when second over 2½m back there since. Unexposed handicap newcomer.

Course bumper winner who followed up on 23f Worcester hurdle debut in September. Ran well under a penalty at Carlisle in October but has disappointed in a handicap and novice back from a break this spring. Bounce back needed in first-time tongue tie.

Won a 20.5f Ayr maiden in February 2023 but not seen since finishing fifth of 11 at Cartmel in May of that year. Can only watch after such a long absence.

Got back on track when fourth of 13 in handicap hurdle at Stratford (19f, good to soft) in March and ran to a similar level when third in Wetherby seller since. Kapal Layar looks the more obvious of the yard's pair.

Made it third time lucky in handicaps when seeing off 4 rivals at Exeter (21.5f, good) 22 days ago, looking suited by a return to a sounder surface. Only raised 4 lb and remains relatively unexposed.

Has completely lost his way over fences (reportedly bled when well held at Wetherby latest). Well treated if a return to hurdles sparks a revival so worth a second look in betting.