bet365 Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Won 5 times last season before excellent second in Rising Stars Chase at Wincanton (20.2f, good). Well held in Arkle Trial at Cheltenham just 7 days later when last seen in November. Clumsy jumper but did very well at this time of year last season and has probably been held back for better ground.

Has won 3 of 5 starts since joining Adrian Keatley, with a return to 2m serving him well, particularly when landing 2 chase handicaps over that trip at Perth recently. Won eased down just 3 weeks ago and a 9 lb rise may not be enough to stop him in hat-trick bid with his yard going well at present.

Won this race 2 years ago and has generally been in good heart of late, with a creditable second of 5 in handicap at Fakenham (21f, good to firm) when last seen in May. Steps back down in trip and merits consideration having fallen to last winning mark.

Veteran who won a pair of small-field handicaps last season from a much-reduced mark. Jumped well but was no match for the winner when second of 3 in handicap at Cartmel last month. Contests this race for the fourth year running (runner-up in 2023 and 2025).

Ended his time for Rebecca Menzies with a clear-cut success on chasing debut at Hexham (2½m, good) in May before being sold for £25,000. Wasn't ideally placed when second in 3-runner race 11 days ago on first start for Dan Skelton. Back down in trip and should be better suited by this bigger field.

Opened his chase account at Ludlow (2½m) in October and has remained in good form since, resuming winning ways in 7-runner race at Bangor (17f, good) last month. This is a higher grade than what he usually contests but can go well again despite the drop back to a bare 2m.