betting.betfair.com Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Close second at Doncaster (2m3f, good to soft) in November and bounced back from Ascot blip when third at Carlisle (2m, good to soft) recently, albeit soundly beaten by the first two; the step back up in trip might help and he's a possible player if conditions suit; unproven on soft ground.

Things clicked when he went up in trip over C&D (soft) in January in a first-time tongue-tie (retained) on his third chase start, and he won in decisive fashion from one who scored next time; 8lb rise might not stop him.

Won at Windsor (2m4f, good) on New Year's Day on second start back from a long absence and close second at Ludlow (2m4f, soft) last month behind one who was completing a hat-trick; Jay Tidball, who has been on board on his last two starts, remains in the saddle; solid claims.

Made it two wins from his last three starts when scoring in good style at Taunton (2m, good to soft) last January; Sean Bowen is again in the saddle for this first run since but it's a hefty absence for this 10yo to defy and there is a question mark regarding today's longer trip.