Virgin Bet 'National Hunt' Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race)

Debut bumper winner has already won twice as a hurdler and ran his best race when runner-up in 2m3f novice at Taunton latest. The one to beat with step back up in trip in his favour.

Cracksman gelding (half-brother to smart hurdler Luccia) still looked a work in progress when winning at Huntingdon (2m) second time up over hurdles, shaping as though this markedly longer trip could benefit.

Fairly useful bumper performer (bought by current yard for £145,000) was a game winner of 2½m Cheltenham novice on New Year's Day but dropped away quickly when well beaten fifth over C&D last time.

Getaway gelding from the family of useful hurdler/very smart chaser (stayed 3¾m) Ballycasey. 0-5 in points in Ireland, last seen in May 2025. Likely to need more time/distance.

€20,000 Youmzain gelding finished third in a point bumper but only ran to a poor level in pair of Rules bumpers last month.