Stowells Novices' Handicap Hurdle

Winner of 2¾m handicap at Hereford in November. Well held in a big field at Newbury next time but firmly back on the up returned to Hereford 12 days ago, pulling 12 lengths clear for an easy success. He's 4 lb well-in turned out under a penalty.

Improved at the second time of asking in handicaps when seeing off 10 rivals at Warwick (19f) on New Year's Eve. Progressed again when second of 12 at Ludlow (21f, soft) since. Looks capable of even better.

Third sole start in Irish points last year. Has yet to build on November's hurdle debut fourth at Chepstow but no surprise were that to change now handicapping. Also wears first-time cheekpieces.

Easy of sole Irish point. Never involved over 2m on first 2 attempts over hurdles but improved second when stepped up to the extended 2½m at Huntingdon last time. Her opening mark isn't obviously generous but there could be more to come as her stamina is drawn out.

Back to form with a bang to win over 21.5f here (heavy) a fortnight ago and he'll be competitive off 5 lb higher if showing up in similar form.

Came good at the second time of asking in handicaps at Lingfield (23f, good) in November. Folded tamely fitted with cheekpieces here (21.5f) 12 days later (possible the race came too soon). Freshened up since and the cheekpieces are also quickly discarded.

Point winner but remains a maiden under Rules following 21 attempts overall and he looks vulnerable once more.