PWC Champion Chase (Grade 2)

Has reached the first three in all nine completed starts over fences; three wins, the most recent was virtually meaningless when a 1-8 shot at Listowel in June; doubts raised by two cases of beaten favouritism from three starts last season, four instances earlier in his career, and another when failing to cope with Zanahiyr (his only serious rival) at Galway two months ago.

High-class form in staying novice hurdles in the first half of 2023, twice runner-up in Grade 1 races; novice chase campaign two seasons ago was cut short after Galway win and a very disappointing run at Punchestown; ran only once last season, fine effort until making a bad mistake at the last in a 3m Fairyhouse event; this trip is shorter than ideal.

Useful novice last season; slotted into handicaps effectively; seasonal highlight provided by victory in a 2m5f Listed handicap at Leopardstown in March; formerly trained by Sean Doyle; faded from three out and pulled up in the Kerry National on his first start for Jack Foley; this shorter trip may be closer to his optimum.

Veteran whose chase record stands at 4-25, thanks to the addition of a handicap win at Wexford in April; not disgraced as a 33-1 outsider in a Grade 2 contest at Fairyhouse later that month, fourth of five finishers then, only one length behind Blood Destiny; may need this after a break.

Has improved in leaps and bounds since second over this trip at Clonmel in March; has looked very much at home over longer trips in landing a beginners' event at Tipperary, the Mayo National at Ballinrobe, and the Galway Plate; has gone up 19lb for his two handicap wins, making him the pick at these weights; shorter trip a concern, plenty going for him all the same.