Bulmers Strawberry & Lime Hurdle

Career peak came in 2023 when winning a novice hurdle at Cheltenham October meeting on first run for Gavin Cromwell; well beaten when runner-up over fences in April and June last year; returned to John McConnell, with whom he started his career, last time at Musselburgh back over hurdles but was disappointing; hard to fancy on current form.

Bumper/chase winner is a dual winner over hurdles, which were a C&D maiden and the Grade 1 Royal Bond at Fairyhouse in 2023; that was his last win in that sphere but some creditable runs in defeat in Graded contests last season; neck behind Thecompanysergeant at Ballinrobe last time (2m3f, good) but was in receipt of 5lb that day; likely suited by softer.

Reverts to hurdles after a decent chasing campaign last season that returned three wins from seven starts; not at his best in a Newbury Grade 2 nor an Aintree Grade 1 in April; 142 hurdles rating is the best in this company and won't be troubled by the ground; in the mix.

Three-time winning hurdler has clearly had his issues; unseen since tailed off in a Tipperary Grade 3 in October 2024; has the rating to be a big danger but questionable whether he can run to it after such a long time away.

Dual bumper winner and winning chaser is 2-12 over hurdles and rated 135; bounced back to form when runner-up in a similar race at Ballinrobe last time (2m3f, good), with Farren Glory a neck behind in third; gave Farren Glory 5lb that day and they now race off levels, while claimer also takes off 7lb; big contender.