bettingsites.co.uk Handicap Hurdle

Forward-going type who was out of sorts (bled) after winning a weak handicap chase at Bangor last season. Back on song on first hurdle start for nearly 2 years when ½-length second at Fontwell (19f) on return, pulling clear with an unexposed one. Can go well off 2 lb higher if in the same form.

Well held on reappearance in this corresponding event (good to soft) 12 months ago. Subsequently won both handicap starts here (soft/heavy), latterly a slightly weaker C&D handicap in March. Has gone well fresh previously and returns with good-value claimer aboard following a 3 lb nudge.

Sole success to date in small-field point. Proved a hard ride when hitting the frame 3 times for Alastair Ralph last season. Return to more testing conditions could suit, though (best effort under Rules on soft), and new yard looks to be coming into form.

Well backed when capitalising on a career-low mark in smooth style at Chepstow (19f, soft) earlier this month. An 8 lb rise may not be enough to prevent a follow up, for a yard who enjoyed a field day at this course last week.

Fair winning chaser for Henry de Bromhead in 2024/25 (sold for only 11,000 gns). Offered nothing on return/stable debut in handicap chase here (150/1) last week. Difficult to make a case for back hurdling, unless the market screams at a revival in first-time cheekpieces.

Runner-up in an ordinary-looking Irish point. Didn't get competitive in 4 starts for Fergal O'Brien last season. Switch to a longer trip/low-grade handicap should at least benefit on first start for new yard.