ThatPrizeGuy Top Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

Solid record (1312114) in bumpers and over hurdles for current yard, the most recent win at Kempton (2m, good; acts on soft); ties in with Sober Glory on two pieces of form, latest in the Supreme at Cheltenham where he fared best of the runners who raced towards the rear; warrants respect as he's progressive and looks an Aintree type.

Gained most recent win over 2m3f (straightforward task) but he's not short of speed and his handicap effort at the Cheltenham Festival (2m1f, soft; ran respectably) suggests this sharper scenario is likely to suit; the type who should still have more to offer; possibilities, provided he takes to first-time hood.

Seems versatile as regards ground; highly progressive sort whose overall record is 7-9; has looked best over hurdles when making the running and impressively defied a big penalty at Newbury for his most recent success; good second in the Supreme at Cheltenham, despite a final-flight error and getting involved in some bumping on the run-in (bare form can be marked up); the pick on ratings.

Sometimes free-going and has worn a hood since switched to hurdles, opening his account in Limerick event at Christmas; only seventh when 25-1 in Leopardstown Grade 1 at the Dublin Racing Festival (2m, heavy) but gives the impression he may fare better at this level when the ground is less testing.

Resumed his progress with a clearcut success in novice handicap at Newbury (2m3f, good to soft) last time; has failed to shine in two Graded attempts over hurdles but may prove a brighter spark back at Aintree, having performed well (fifth of 15) in Grade 2 bumper at this meeting 12 months ago; has won over 2m.