Sodexo Live! Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Not totally straightforward but better than ever when scoring at Kempton having looked held 4 out. Let down by jumping in the Topham but seemed to excel himself when third in Oaksey Chase at Sandown final start. Won this on return last season but that was off 13 lb lower.

Most progressive when landing 5-timer in 2024, including this race on return. First win since (fitted with blinkers, usually wears cheekpieces) when causing a surprise in the Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival in March, all out. 5 lb rise seems fair and leading contender if ready.

Most progressive last winter, winning over C&D before following up in another small field at Sandown. Shaped better than the bare result when seventh in the Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival (too close to a strong pace) final start and he remains of interest. Has since had breathing operation.

Smart chaser as a novice but last season was generally a struggle. Reappears potentially well treated as a result but Twiston-Davies seemingly prefers Gore Point.

Much improved switched to fences last season, defying a further 10 lb rise when bringing up the hat-trick at Warwick. However, found the wheels coming off in much more competitive races next 2 starts.

Unreliable chaser who sprang a 33/1 surprise in last season’s December Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Pulled up next 4 starts before bouncing back to form when making all at Uttoxeter in May. Presumably having a pipe-opener back over hurdles on return 3 weeks ago.

Most progressive chaser who has already won 5 of his last 6 starts over fences this season, including another small field at Newton Abbot last month. Will find this much more competitive but he's thriving and has the advantage of race fitness.

Career best when winning off 1 lb lower at Kelso over a year ago. Hasn't fired since but she starts the new campaign off a handy mark. Market can guide.

Hurdle/chase winner for Gavin Cromwell. Gradually found his form for current yard last season, placing on 4 occasions, and shaped well under this rider at Kelso on return 4 weeks ago. Better expected now eased another 1 lb.

Out of sorts when last seen but he was a close second to Teddy Blue in this last year off 11 lb higher, so can't dismiss completely.

Enjoyed a resurgent campaign for Chester Williams in 2025/26, winning 3 times over fences (including over C&D final start) and once over hurdles. Set for another productive season after just failing to reel in the front runner over hurdles at Chepstow on return 3 weeks ago.