William Hill Each Way Extra Challenge Series Beginners Chase

2-14 over hurdles; last success was in March 2022; no signs of ending the drought in three hurdle runs this season, the most recent at Limerick five days ago; has run seven times over fences and has a modest official rating of 88.

Placed in a point-to-point on soft; 0-4 over hurdles and rated 86; took a step in the right direction when third of eight behind Aclass and today's rival Mount Shenshan on his chase debut at Tramore in November; Aclass has shown the form in a good light.

Placed in three of his last four races over hurdles, no sign of progress since his second at Roscommon in September, however, that form has been given several endorsements by the winner Hitthehayson

Won a maiden point on good ground at Necarne in May; not disgraced in two bumper runs; tailed off at Limerick on hurdles debut; attracted the attention of the stewards with a mid-field run over 2m at Naas; rider reported interference and suggested likely need for a longer trip; plenty to prove now judged on runs at Limerick, Clonmel and Thurles.

Career-best when narrowly beaten in a 24-runner handicap hurdle at this venue (2m4f, soft to heavy) early last month; raised 4lb to a mark of 99; faded tamely from two out when well fancied for a 2m4f handicap at Limerick last Monday.