Remembering Noel Gaskin Handicap Hurdle

Sole win came in a soft-ground handicap at Tramore in August 2023; still early days with this yard and last week's 9l defeat at Newton Abbot was mildly encouraging (2m5f, good).

Seven defeats under rules include three handicaps and he hasn't threatened in any of them, as when runner-up two starts back he was beaten some 26l; didn't run too badly at Stratford last time in first-time cheekpieces and now goes in blinkers; has to improve, however.

No wins in 18 starts but placed plenty of times and was one of the favourites when coming down three out at Wincanton (3m, good to soft) in March when she was still moving with some purpose; respected.

Exposed four-time hurdle winner who ideally wants good ground and despite favourable conditions he was twice well held in March after a break; the return of blinkers (for cheekpieces) is no bad thing but likely one for another day.

Won twice over hurdles in France; has some wretched form figures in Britain (including five chases) and can't be backed with any confidence.