Ladies Day On Sunday 16th August Handicap Hurdle

Yet to win a race and went backwards last time, finishing seventh of 7 in handicap at Aintree (9/2) 38 days ago when carrying tail awkwardly. Cheekpieces removed for this step up in trip.

Finished third in his last 3 starts, most recently at Fontwell (9/1) 22 days ago, seemingly going best when caught on the inner before being outstayed by the front 2. Capable of being very competitive having been eased 1 lb.

Successful on second of 2 starts in Irish points and made a winning Rules debut in a 17-runner Warwick bumper in April 2023. Lightly raced and low-key start over hurdles before making winning handicap/chase debut fitted with cheekpieces a year ago. Off since and he's back over the smaller obstacles.

Placed in Irish points and off the mark over hurdles at Wetherby 11 days ago having been placed on all 3 previous handicap starts, edging ahead in dying strides. Unexposed stayer and 3 lb rise may not be enough to prevent the follow up.

Yet to win and failed to improve for switch to handicaps despite attracting support on each occasion. Step back up in trip will suit and he may have a bigger performance in him.

Winner over C&D in February 2024 but into the veteran stage of his career now and recent efforts over both sets of obstacles have lacked spark. Tongue tie added.

Much improved when winning handicap at Cartmel (22f, heavy) in June and right back to her best when edged out by La Higuera at Wetherby 11 days ago. Shouldn't be much between the pair again.