Silver Fox Classic Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Bold-jumping front runner who made hay over fences last summer, with 4 of his 5 wins (all over 2m) coming at this course. Had another breathing operation prior to free-going reappearance before his exuberance again took its toll over hurdles here last time. Difficult to assess at present.

Successful 5 times last year (3 times at this course). Fine second in Grade 2 Rising Stars Chase at Wincanton (20.2f) before facing a tall order in Arkle trial at Cheltenham. The jury is still out on his jumping, but he has solid form claims on the back of a pipe-opener at Uttoxeter last time.

Has made a fine start over fences, his only defeat coming at the hands of a useful sort at Perth in June. Capitalised on a pace collapse to make it 2-2 over C&D in a 3-runner novice last time. Presence of Centara/Sir Tivo could see this unfold in a similar manner. Expected to run another big race.

Best of these over hurdles (fairly useful). Never far away in strongly-run race when gamely landing a career-best chase success here last time (runner-up probably unlucky). Looks plenty of pace on again, and another relatively conservative ride could see him land a third successive C&D win.

On lower marks when making all in a pair of small-field handicaps under Sean Bowen last season. Ran creditably when well-held third in better race at Uttoxeter on his latest start. Veteran is probably too high in the weights to land a fourth C&D success, though.