Cottage Autism Network Mares Beginners Chase

Third at Limerick 33 days ago on a step up in trip, but she overdid things early and the 19-length gap reflected it. A reasonable hurdles maiden who may settle better over the longer distances on fences; effective from 2m to 2m4f on a sound surface, first-time tongue-tie.

Back down in trip at Tramore last month showed a marked upturn in form — second beaten just half a length in a beginners chase — and her hurdle record points to more ability in reserve. Effective at 2m on soft or good; bottom-rated on our figures but this was an encouraging run.

Won a handicap hurdle at Clonmel by 3½ lengths last time on favoured ground at a track where she clearly thrives, showing her best form when conditions suit. Inconsistent in general but capable on her day; first-time tongue-tie for her chase debut, where a bit more is needed.

Hurdle outing at Cheltenham over three months ago was a below-par handicap debut — well beaten — but the view is that chasing may bring out the best in her and the hurdle mark was stiff. Effective at 2m4f with cut in the ground; top-rated here and a fresh start over fences makes sense.

Exit from a beginners chase at Tramore last month is no reflection of her ability — she was travelling powerfully and looking the likeliest winner at the time. Top-level hurdle form in her locker and there is every reason to expect a different outcome over fences; first-time hood applies.