Southern Contract Novices' Handicap Chase

Looked a bright prospect when making a winning bumper debut at Aintree in autumn 2024 but has failed to progress as expected, showing only modest form in a trio of hurdle runs last season. Still rates as an interesting chasing newcomer for in-form yard.

Fair maiden chaser who ran well enough when last seen at Southwell just under a year ago. Well handicapped on the pick of his form and he's worth a betting check after a stable switch (left Toby Lawes).

Winless but he was knocking on the door last season, likely to have won if not for an awkward jump at the last when runner-up at Southwell in March. Not seen to best effect under a patient ride when fifth of 8 at Fontwell in May and unseated early there on recent return. Still likely on a good mark.

Improved second on 2m Taunton handicap hurdle debut in March. Similar form despite not really sustained his effort when fourth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Ffos Las (2m, good) when last seen in May. Longer trip not certain to suit now chasing.

Modest winner on hurdles debut in Ireland, but without a victory over hurdles/fences for current yard and didn't really look like scoring at any point last season. Cheekpieces back on.

Still a maiden but he ran creditably enough on his return from 8 months off at Fontwell (2¼m, good to soft) 18 days ago. Others still make greater appeal for win purposes, though.

Best effort over hurdles when close second in mares handicap here (2m) in January. Showed bit more than on chase debut when third in 2m handicap at Hereford in May but was beaten rather quickly at Southwell the following month.

Dual winner over hurdles at this sort of trip (most recently at Fontwell in May) and he has progressed with each start over fences, his latest second in a 6-runner race at Market Rasen already working out well. Leading player.

Unpromising in points and showed little in 3 hurdles starts for Claire Hitch. Blinkered and showed much more than previously under Rules when second of 5 in handicap chase (10/1) at Newton Abbot (21f, good) in May but rather flattered by his proximity there and needs to prove he can back that up.

Not the most trustworthy of performers but slipped the field when belatedly getting off the mark in handicap chase at Fontwell in May. Not entirely disgraced when third of 6 there next time but he remains easy enough to oppose for win purposes despite reapplication of visor.