Aintree 03 December 2011
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Successful in two NH flat races at 1m 6f on good to soft ground. Beaten 1l by Broadbackbob when second of 11 at 5-2 on his hurdling debut at Ascot over 2m (good) last month.
Successful in two NH flat races at 1m 6f on good to soft ground. Beaten 1l by Broadbackbob when second of 11 at 5-2 on his hurdling debut at Ascot over 2m (good) last month.
Finished 6l behind Lexington Bay when fourth of 10 at 11-2 on his latest outing at Ayr over 1m 5f (soft) in September.
Finished 6l behind Lexington Bay when fourth of 10 at 11-2 on his latest outing at Ayr over 1m 5f (soft) in September.
Unseated rider when 22-1 at Doncaster over 1m 4f (soft) won by Zuider Zee last month on his latest outing.
Unseated rider when 22-1 at Doncaster over 1m 4f (soft) won by Zuider Zee last month on his latest outing.
He has won three NH flat races from 1m 5f to 1m 6f on good to soft and heavy ground (latest flat win was in July). Won on his latest NH outing in a NH flat race when 3-1fav at Cheltenham over 1m 6f (good to soft) in January, beating Cinders And Ashes by a short head. Having his first run for a new stable today.
He has won three NH flat races from 1m 5f to 1m 6f on good to soft and heavy ground (latest flat win was in July). Won on his latest NH outing in a NH flat race when 3-1fav at Cheltenham over 1m 6f (good to soft) in January, beating Cinders And Ashes by a short head. Having his first run for a new stable today.
Finished at Saint-Cloud over 1m won by Earl of Fire last month on his latest outing.
Finished at Saint-Cloud over 1m won by Earl of Fire last month on his latest outing.
Well beaten at 22-1 behind Cape Dutch when 10th of 12 on his NH debut in a maiden hurdle race at Hexham over 2m (good) in September.
Well beaten at 22-1 behind Cape Dutch when 10th of 12 on his NH debut in a maiden hurdle race at Hexham over 2m (good) in September.
Finished 9l behind Distime when fifth of 18 at 20-1 on his NH debut in a hurdle race at Bangor over 2m 1f (good to soft) last month.
Finished 9l behind Distime when fifth of 18 at 20-1 on his NH debut in a hurdle race at Bangor over 2m 1f (good to soft) last month.
Won on his latest outing in a NH flat race when 3-1fav at Fontwell over 2m 2f (good) in April, beating Majorica King by 8l. Having his first run for a new stable today, previously with N J Henderson.
Won on his latest outing in a NH flat race when 3-1fav at Fontwell over 2m 2f (good) in April, beating Majorica King by 8l. Having his first run for a new stable today, previously with N J Henderson.
Well beaten at 66-1 behind Perpetually when fifth of 7 on her NH debut in a hurdle race at Haydock over 2m (good) in October.
Well beaten at 66-1 behind Perpetually when fifth of 7 on her NH debut in a hurdle race at Haydock over 2m (good) in October.
Well beaten at 11-2 behind Philharmonic Hall when fifth of 9 on his NH debut in a maiden hurdle race at Hexham over 2m (soft) last month.
Well beaten at 11-2 behind Philharmonic Hall when fifth of 9 on his NH debut in a maiden hurdle race at Hexham over 2m (soft) last month.
KEYS exploited a lenient Flat mark in the summer with number of classy performances for Roger Charlton but a hurdling career has no doubt remained the long-term aim for this Listed bumper winner. Now in the care of Nicky Henderson, the selection looks of considerable interest as he tackles timber for the first time. Cinders And Ashes, runner-up to the selection in a Cheltenham bumper last term, has the benefit of previous hurdles experience under his belt and, entitled to build upon his last-time-out Ascot second, appears the main danger. Ile De Re wasn't far short of Listed class on the Flat and is another hurdling debutant to consider.
Keys just touched off Cinders And Ashes in a bumper at Cheltenham on New Year's Day, but the McCain runner is fancied to turn the tables with hurdling experience under his belt. Flat-recruit Ile de Re appeals best of the rest.
He has won three hurdle races from 2m 4f to 2m 5f on good and good to soft ground. A winner at 16-1 in a Grade 1 hurdle race in the Group 1 Cathal Ryan Memorial Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown over 2m 4f (good) on his latest NH outing in May, beating Prima Vista by a short head.
He has won three hurdle races from 2m 4f to 2m 5f on good and good to soft ground. A winner at 16-1 in a Grade 1 hurdle race in the Group 1 Cathal Ryan Memorial Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown over 2m 4f (good) on his latest NH outing in May, beating Prima Vista by a short head.
He has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and a chase from 2m to 3m on good and good to soft ground. Pulled up at the 16th when 12-1 at Uttoxeter over 4m 1f (good to soft) in a chase won by Minella Four Star in March on his latest outing.
He has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and a chase from 2m to 3m on good and good to soft ground. Pulled up at the 16th when 12-1 at Uttoxeter over 4m 1f (good to soft) in a chase won by Minella Four Star in March on his latest outing.
He has won two hurdle races and a NH flat race from 2m to 2m 4f on good and good to soft ground. Beaten 1/2l by Any Given Day when second of 12 at 5-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Haydock over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
He has won two hurdle races and a NH flat race from 2m to 2m 4f on good and good to soft ground. Beaten 1/2l by Any Given Day when second of 12 at 5-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Haydock over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m and 2m 6f on soft ground. A winner at 14-1 in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 2m 6f (soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Whispering Jack by 9l.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m and 2m 6f on soft ground. A winner at 14-1 in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 2m 6f (soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Whispering Jack by 9l.
Winner of three hurdle races and two chases from 2m to 2m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Well beaten at 40-1 behind Dynaste when 10th of 20 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 hurdle race in the Group 3 'Fixed Brush' Handicap Hurdle at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) last month.
Winner of three hurdle races and two chases from 2m to 2m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Well beaten at 40-1 behind Dynaste when 10th of 20 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 hurdle race in the Group 3 'Fixed Brush' Handicap Hurdle at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) last month.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m on good and heavy ground. A winner at 4-1 in a hurdle race at Ascot over 2m (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Decoy by 2 1/4l.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m on good and heavy ground. A winner at 4-1 in a hurdle race at Ascot over 2m (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Decoy by 2 1/4l.
He has won a hurdle race and two NH flat races from 2m to 2m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Pulled up at the 5th when 20-1 at Newton Abbot over 2m 6f (good to soft) in a hurdle race won by Mad Moose in August on his latest outing.
He has won a hurdle race and two NH flat races from 2m to 2m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Pulled up at the 5th when 20-1 at Newton Abbot over 2m 6f (good to soft) in a hurdle race won by Mad Moose in August on his latest outing.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m on good ground. Third of 18 behind Enfant De Lune beaten 2 1/2l at 10-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Sandown over 2m 4f (soft) last month.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m on good ground. Third of 18 behind Enfant De Lune beaten 2 1/2l at 10-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Sandown over 2m 4f (soft) last month.
Winner of six hurdle races from 2m to 2m 2f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy (latest flat win was in January). Beaten 15l behind Rumble Of Thunder at 16-1 when seventh of 11 on his latest NH outing in a hurdle race here over 2m 1f (good to soft) in October.
Winner of six hurdle races from 2m to 2m 2f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy (latest flat win was in January). Beaten 15l behind Rumble Of Thunder at 16-1 when seventh of 11 on his latest NH outing in a hurdle race here over 2m 1f (good to soft) in October.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m on good and good to soft ground. Void having jumped the last when 14-1 at Wetherby over 2m (good to soft) in a hurdle race won by UNKNOWN in October on his latest outing.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m on good and good to soft ground. Void having jumped the last when 14-1 at Wetherby over 2m (good to soft) in a hurdle race won by UNKNOWN in October on his latest outing.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m 4f on soft ground. Beaten a short head by Moon Indigo when second of 15 at 12-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Kelso over 2m 6f (good to soft) in April.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m 4f on soft ground. Beaten a short head by Moon Indigo when second of 15 at 12-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Kelso over 2m 6f (good to soft) in April.
WYSE HILL TEABAGS went into many notebooks after his third-placed effort in a Listed handicap here at the Festival in April, finding himself squeezed for room at a crucial stage of the race but dragging himself back into contention until a blunder at the last scuppered his chances. Jim Goldie's representative also ran a huge race on his seasonal bow at Haydock last time and, off a 3lb higher rating, looks a winner in waiting. Last-time-out Ascot scorer Featherbed Lane is respected off 9lb higher while Grade 1-winning novice Spirit of Adjisa, seeking a four-timer, cannot be left out of calculations either.
Featherbed Lane fetched a decent price at the Sales and it's already beginning to look money well spent judged on the improved form he showed to score on his first start for Philip Hobbs at Ascot. Reindeer Dippin should now be cherry-ripe after a couple of runs, while Haydock-second Wyse Hill Teabags is another to consider in a competitive handicap.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m on good ground. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Edgardo Sol when 10th of 17 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 2m (good to soft) last month.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m on good ground. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Edgardo Sol when 10th of 17 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 2m (good to soft) last month.
Placed in a hurdle race from four starts. Unseated rider when 50-1 at Ffos Las over 2m 4f (soft) in a hurdle race won by Maringo Bay in February on his latest outing.
Placed in a hurdle race from four starts. Unseated rider when 50-1 at Ffos Las over 2m 4f (soft) in a hurdle race won by Maringo Bay in February on his latest outing.
Placed in two hurdle races from two starts. Third of 10 behind Smart Catch beaten 6l at 4-9fav on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Kempton over 2m (good) in March. Having his first run for a new stable today, previously with N J Henderson.
Placed in two hurdle races from two starts. Third of 10 behind Smart Catch beaten 6l at 4-9fav on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Kempton over 2m (good) in March. Having his first run for a new stable today, previously with N J Henderson.
Successful in a hurdle race and a NH flat race at 1m 6f and 2m 4f on good and good to soft ground. Well beaten at 8-1 behind Edgardo Sol when eighth of 17 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 2m (good to soft) last month.
Successful in a hurdle race and a NH flat race at 1m 6f and 2m 4f on good and good to soft ground. Well beaten at 8-1 behind Edgardo Sol when eighth of 17 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 2m (good to soft) last month.
Placed in two hurdle races from four starts. Beaten 3 1/2l by Dancing Dude when second of 14 at 3-1 on his latest outing in a maiden hurdle race at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good) in April.
Placed in two hurdle races from four starts. Beaten 3 1/2l by Dancing Dude when second of 14 at 3-1 on his latest outing in a maiden hurdle race at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good) in April.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m 4f and 2m 6f on good to firm and good ground. Pulled up 3 out when 11-1 at Worcester over 2m 4f (good) in a hurdle race won by Geneva Geyser in August on his latest outing. Has won at Cartmel and Uttoxeter this season.
Successful in two hurdle races at 2m 4f and 2m 6f on good to firm and good ground. Pulled up 3 out when 11-1 at Worcester over 2m 4f (good) in a hurdle race won by Geneva Geyser in August on his latest outing. Has won at Cartmel and Uttoxeter this season.
Placed in a hurdle race and two NH flat races from six starts. Beaten 4 1/2l by Rolling Aces when second of 11 at 8-1 on her latest outing in a hurdle race at Wincanton over 2m 6f (good to soft) last month.
Placed in a hurdle race and two NH flat races from six starts. Beaten 4 1/2l by Rolling Aces when second of 11 at 8-1 on her latest outing in a hurdle race at Wincanton over 2m 6f (good to soft) last month.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m 4f and 2m 5f on good to soft and soft ground. Won on his latest outing in a hurdle race when 2-1fav at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month, beating Red Rocco by 2 1/2l.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m 4f and 2m 5f on good to soft and soft ground. Won on his latest outing in a hurdle race when 2-1fav at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month, beating Red Rocco by 2 1/2l.
A winner of a NH flat race at 2m on soft ground. Beaten a neck by Weston Lodge when second of 12 at 9-2 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Wetherby over 2m 4f (soft) last month.
A winner of a NH flat race at 2m on soft ground. Beaten a neck by Weston Lodge when second of 12 at 9-2 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Wetherby over 2m 4f (soft) last month.
Placed in two hurdle races and two NH flat races from 12 starts. Third of 11 behind Kayf Commander beaten 1l at 9-2 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Sedgefield over 2m 4f (good) last month.
Placed in two hurdle races and two NH flat races from 12 starts. Third of 11 behind Kayf Commander beaten 1l at 9-2 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Sedgefield over 2m 4f (good) last month.
He has won three NH flat races at 2m on good and soft ground. Well beaten at 5-1 behind Miss Kalifa when sixth of 13 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 3m (soft) last month.
He has won three NH flat races at 2m on good and soft ground. Well beaten at 5-1 behind Miss Kalifa when sixth of 13 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 3m (soft) last month.
Placed in a hurdle race and two NH flat races from seven starts. Beaten 2 1/2l by Native Gallery when second of 18 at 7-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month, his only placing from 7 starts.
Placed in a hurdle race and two NH flat races from seven starts. Beaten 2 1/2l by Native Gallery when second of 18 at 7-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Uttoxeter over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month, his only placing from 7 starts.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m 2f on good ground. Finished 10l behind Gormanstown Cuckoo when fourth of 14 at 40-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race here over 3m (good) in October.
A winner of a hurdle race at 2m 2f on good ground. Finished 10l behind Gormanstown Cuckoo when fourth of 14 at 40-1 on his latest outing in a hurdle race here over 3m (good) in October.
Ben De Haan has been amongst the winners this week and his NATIVE GALLERY looks of considerable interest now handicapping, having shown plenty of hurdling ability in novices' events previously, including when running out a most convincing winner over a similar trip at Uttoxeter latest. Mabel Tasman turned in her best effort yet when grabbing minor money at Wincanton last time and looks on a fair mark now turning his attention to handicaps. The booking of Paul Carberry for Michael Mullineaux's He's A Hawker catches the eye, although he needs to bounce back from a disappointing Worcester effort latest.
Mabel Tasman was much improved when second at Wincanton, and the combination of a step back in trip and the fitting of a tongue tie can see her go one better. Native Gallery and Comeragh King are possible improvers, and are respected as such.
A winner of a NH flat race at 1m 6f on good to soft ground. Beaten 4 1/2l by Amber Cloud when second of 12 at 11-10fav on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Fontwell over 1m 6f (good to firm) in September.
A winner of a NH flat race at 1m 6f on good to soft ground. Beaten 4 1/2l by Amber Cloud when second of 12 at 11-10fav on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Fontwell over 1m 6f (good to firm) in September.
Full sister to Youhavecontrol, won at 6f.
Full sister to Youhavecontrol, won at 6f.
Placed in a NH flat race from three starts. Third of 11 behind Rojo Vivo beaten 17l at 20-1 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Carlisle over 2m 1f (soft) in March.
Placed in a NH flat race from three starts. Third of 11 behind Rojo Vivo beaten 17l at 20-1 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Carlisle over 2m 1f (soft) in March.
Placed in a NH flat race from three starts. Beaten 5l by Aland Islands when second of 11 at 50-1 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Exeter over 2m 1f (good) in April.
Placed in a NH flat race from three starts. Beaten 5l by Aland Islands when second of 11 at 50-1 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Exeter over 2m 1f (good) in April.
Dam won twice in chases at 3m and 3m 1f.
Dam won twice in chases at 3m and 3m 1f.
Unplaced in all three starts. Well beaten at 25-1 behind Toubeera when 11th of 13 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Market Rasen over 2m 1f (good) in April. Having her first run for a new stable today, previously with Mrs L B Normile.
Unplaced in all three starts. Well beaten at 25-1 behind Toubeera when 11th of 13 on her latest outing in a NH flat race at Market Rasen over 2m 1f (good) in April. Having her first run for a new stable today, previously with Mrs L B Normile.
Placed in two NH flat races from two starts. Third of 11 behind Caught In The Act beaten 2 1/4l at 11-2 on her latest outing in a maiden NH flat race at Newton Abbot over 2m 1f (good to firm) in July.
Placed in two NH flat races from two starts. Third of 11 behind Caught In The Act beaten 2 1/4l at 11-2 on her latest outing in a maiden NH flat race at Newton Abbot over 2m 1f (good to firm) in July.
Dam a lightly raced maiden.
Dam a lightly raced maiden.
Beattie Green will be popular, despite having to carry a weight penalty for her Fontwell success back in January, but marginal preference is for SUDDEN LIGHT. She showed considerable promise in a couple of summer bumpers at Market Rasen and Newton Abbot, finishing third on both occasions, and the booking of Jason Maguire looks significant for the Jim Best-trained mare. Mini The Minx is another of interest, while strong market support for Henry Daly's newcomer, Fenney Mill, would bring her into the picture.
Russie With Love was much improved starting out for Chris Down at Exeter in the spring, and she can make the most of the weight she receives from Beattie Green. Sudden Light may need further, but has place claims again.
Winner of two hurdle races, two NH flat races and two chases from 2m to 2m 4f on ground varying from good to soft. Finished 17l behind Master Minded when sixth of 10 at 11-1 on his latest outing in a Grade 1 chase here over 2m 4f (good) in April. Having his first run for a new stable today.
Winner of two hurdle races, two NH flat races and two chases from 2m to 2m 4f on ground varying from good to soft. Finished 17l behind Master Minded when sixth of 10 at 11-1 on his latest outing in a Grade 1 chase here over 2m 4f (good) in April. Having his first run for a new stable today.
He has won four chases from 2m 4f to 3m 1f on soft and heavy ground. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Quito De La Roque when fourth of 7 on his latest outing in a Grade 1 chase in the Group 1 JNwine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal over 3m (soft) last month.
He has won four chases from 2m 4f to 3m 1f on soft and heavy ground. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Quito De La Roque when fourth of 7 on his latest outing in a Grade 1 chase in the Group 1 JNwine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal over 3m (soft) last month.
Successful in two chases at 3m and 3m 5f on good and good to soft ground, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 20-1 behind Exmoor Ranger when 9th of 17 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 United House Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Ascot over 3m (good) in October.
Successful in two chases at 3m and 3m 5f on good and good to soft ground, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 20-1 behind Exmoor Ranger when 9th of 17 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 United House Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Ascot over 3m (good) in October.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m 1f to 3m on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Third of 11 behind Prophete De Guye beaten 8l at 7-2fav on his latest outing in a chase at Ascot over 3m (good) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m 1f to 3m on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Third of 11 behind Prophete De Guye beaten 8l at 7-2fav on his latest outing in a chase at Ascot over 3m (good) last month.
Has won five hurdle races and six chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Palace Jester when fourth of 9 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 2m 6f (soft) last month.
Has won five hurdle races and six chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 16-1 behind Palace Jester when fourth of 9 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 2m 6f (soft) last month.
He has won a hurdle race and three chases from 3m to 3m 5f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Pulled up 4 out when 22-1 in the Group 3 Rewards4Racing Handicap Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 3f (good to soft) in a Grade 3 chase won by Galaxy Rock last month on his latest outing.
He has won a hurdle race and three chases from 3m to 3m 5f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Pulled up 4 out when 22-1 in the Group 3 Rewards4Racing Handicap Chase at Cheltenham over 3m 3f (good to soft) in a Grade 3 chase won by Galaxy Rock last month on his latest outing.
Winner of two hurdle races, a NH flat race and three chases from 2m 2f to 2m 7f on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 16-1 when seventh of 8 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Tipperary over 2m 4f (soft) in October.
Winner of two hurdle races, a NH flat race and three chases from 2m 2f to 2m 7f on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Well beaten at 16-1 when seventh of 8 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Tipperary over 2m 4f (soft) in October.
Has won eight chases from 2m 6f to 4m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 20-1 behind The Minack when fifth of 13 on his latest outing in a chase at Wincanton over 3m 1f (good to soft) last month.
Has won eight chases from 2m 6f to 4m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 20-1 behind The Minack when fifth of 13 on his latest outing in a chase at Wincanton over 3m 1f (good to soft) last month.
He has won four chases from 3m to 3m 1f on good to soft and soft ground. Beaten 4 1/2l by Mohi Rahrere when second of 11 at 8-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Bangor over 3m (good to soft) last month.
He has won four chases from 3m to 3m 1f on good to soft and soft ground. Beaten 4 1/2l by Mohi Rahrere when second of 11 at 8-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Bangor over 3m (good to soft) last month.
He has won a hurdle race, a NH flat race and a chase from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Pulled up having jumped the last when 11-1 at Cheltenham over 4m (good) in a chase won by Poker De Sivola in March last year on his latest outing. Having his first run for a new stable today.
He has won a hurdle race, a NH flat race and a chase from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy, but last win was over two years ago. Pulled up having jumped the last when 11-1 at Cheltenham over 4m (good) in a chase won by Poker De Sivola in March last year on his latest outing. Having his first run for a new stable today.
He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m 2f to 2m 5f on good to firm and good ground. A winner at 7-2 in a chase at Huntingdon over 2m 4f (good to firm) on his latest outing in October, beating Kikos by 17l.
He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m 2f to 2m 5f on good to firm and good ground. A winner at 7-2 in a chase at Huntingdon over 2m 4f (good to firm) on his latest outing in October, beating Kikos by 17l.
A winner of a chase at 3m on heavy ground. Beaten % by Saint Tiep when 2nd but disqualified and placed 2nd of 10 on his latest outing in a chase at Auteuil over 2m 5f (good to soft) last month.
A winner of a chase at 3m on heavy ground. Beaten % by Saint Tiep when 2nd but disqualified and placed 2nd of 10 on his latest outing in a chase at Auteuil over 2m 5f (good to soft) last month.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m 4f and 2m 6f on good and heavy ground. Beaten 3/4l by The Bishop Looney when second of 14 at 11-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Cork over 3m 4f (soft) last month.
Successful in a hurdle race and a chase at 2m 4f and 2m 6f on good and heavy ground. Beaten 3/4l by The Bishop Looney when second of 14 at 11-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Cork over 3m 4f (soft) last month.
Successful in two chases at 2m and 3m 1f on good and soft ground. Pulled up at the 17th when 20-1 at Sandown over 3m (good to soft) in a chase won by Hold On Julio last month on his latest outing. Runs from 2lb out of handicap.
Successful in two chases at 2m and 3m 1f on good and soft ground. Pulled up at the 17th when 20-1 at Sandown over 3m (good to soft) in a chase won by Hold On Julio last month on his latest outing. Runs from 2lb out of handicap.
He has won a hurdle race and two chases from 2m 6f to 3m on good ground. Pulled up 4 out when 16-1 at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) in a chase won by Cappa Bleu last month on his latest outing. Runs from 2lb out of handicap.
He has won a hurdle race and two chases from 2m 6f to 3m on good ground. Pulled up 4 out when 16-1 at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) in a chase won by Cappa Bleu last month on his latest outing. Runs from 2lb out of handicap.
Hello Bud has vital experience of these fences and warrants the utmost respect as he bids to defend his crown off 3lb higher. Dual Topham winner Always Waining and Grand National fifth Niche Market are others that have run well over the National fences previously and merit inclusion on the shortlist, but it might be worth siding with RARE BOB, who is bidding to give Dessie Hughes his third Becher victory in the last four years after recent successes with Black Apalachi (2008) and Vic Venturi (2009). The selection demonstrated his class when landing a valuable Leopardstown chase earlier in the year, while his Punchestown Gold Cup third in April also goes down as a fair effort. Ballyvesey, fourth in last year's renewal when 5lb wrong, is worth considering, along with Noel Meade's improving stayer Another Palm, who is 5lb higher than when runner-up in the Cork National last month.
Last year's winner Hello Bud went with all his old zest before fading on his reappearance and should make a bold bid to defend his crown, but this looks a stronger renewal and preference is for Niche Market, who jumped with plenty of exuberance over these fences in the Grand National and will be sharper for a recent run. Swing Bill and Always Waining complete the shortlist.
Has won two hurdle races and six chases from 2m 2f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 6-1 behind Weird Al when fourth of 7 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby over 3m 1f (good) in October.
Has won two hurdle races and six chases from 2m 2f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 6-1 behind Weird Al when fourth of 7 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby over 3m 1f (good) in October.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Fell 2 out when 9-2 over this course and distance (good) in a Grade 2 chase won by Quito De La Roque in April on his latest outing.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Fell 2 out when 9-2 over this course and distance (good) in a Grade 2 chase won by Quito De La Roque in April on his latest outing.
Winner of three hurdle races and four chases from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. A winner at 10-1 in a chase at Cartmel over 3m 2f (soft) on his latest NH outing in August, beating Foxesbow by 2 3/4l. Has also won at Kelso this season.
Winner of three hurdle races and four chases from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. A winner at 10-1 in a chase at Cartmel over 3m 2f (soft) on his latest NH outing in August, beating Foxesbow by 2 3/4l. Has also won at Kelso this season.
Winner of a hurdle race and four chases from 3m to 3m 3f on good to firm and good ground. Finished 16l behind Neptune Equester when fifth of 10 at 33-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Haydock over 3m 4f (good to soft) last month.
Winner of a hurdle race and four chases from 3m to 3m 3f on good to firm and good ground. Finished 16l behind Neptune Equester when fifth of 10 at 33-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Haydock over 3m 4f (good to soft) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and five chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft, but last win was over three years ago. Beaten a head by Cappa Bleu when second of 10 at 11-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and five chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft, but last win was over three years ago. Beaten a head by Cappa Bleu when second of 10 at 11-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Haydock over 3m (good to soft) last month.
NACARAT was unable to concede weight all round in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby in October but he wasn't disgraced in fourth and could be up to the task today. Winner of the Grade 1 totesport Bowl over 3m1f here in April, the bold front-runner will take some pegging back if getting his own way. Tamarinbleu showed the fire still burns bright when second to Cappa Bleu on his return from a long lay-off at Haydock, but the selection could have most to fear from Master Of The Hall. The latter ran a promising race when sixth in the RSA Chase at Cheltenham and although well held before falling here when last sighted in April, he looks a likely improver this term.
Tamarinbleu made a most encouraging return to the fray at Haydock recently and looks sure to go well if none the worse for that, but course winner Nacarat is every bit as good over this shorter trip and is difficult to oppose on these terms.
Winner of five chases from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 33-1 behind Great Endeavour when 9th of 20 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase at Cheltenham over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
Winner of five chases from 2m 4f to 3m 2f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 33-1 behind Great Endeavour when 9th of 20 on his latest outing in a Grade 3 chase in the Group 3 Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase at Cheltenham over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
He has won a hurdle race and two chases from 2m 1f to 2m 3f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 20-1 behind Tanks For That when 10th of 17 on his latest outing in a chase at Cheltenham over 2m (good) last month.
He has won a hurdle race and two chases from 2m 1f to 2m 3f on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 20-1 behind Tanks For That when 10th of 17 on his latest outing in a chase at Cheltenham over 2m (good) last month.
Has won four hurdle races and four chases from 2m to 2m 6f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Beaten 1/2l by Nikola when second of 10 at 16-1 on his latest outing in a chase here over 3m 1f (good) in October.
Has won four hurdle races and four chases from 2m to 2m 6f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Beaten 1/2l by Nikola when second of 10 at 16-1 on his latest outing in a chase here over 3m 1f (good) in October.
Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 100-1 behind Master Minded when fourth of 6 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot over 2m 3f (good) last month.
Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to heavy. Well beaten at 100-1 behind Master Minded when fourth of 6 on his latest outing in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot over 2m 3f (good) last month.
He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft. Well beaten at 33-1 behind Dorset Square when 16th of 19 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 3m 1f (good to soft) last month.
He has won two hurdle races and two chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to soft. Well beaten at 33-1 behind Dorset Square when 16th of 19 on his latest outing in a hurdle race at Cheltenham over 3m 1f (good to soft) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m 4f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Well beaten at 11-4fav behind Roudoudou Ville when seventh of 9 on his latest outing in a chase at Sandown over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m 4f to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Well beaten at 11-4fav behind Roudoudou Ville when seventh of 9 on his latest outing in a chase at Sandown over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month.
He has won three chases from 2m 4f to 2m 5f on good to soft and soft ground. Beaten 7l by Swing Bill when second of 13 at 9-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Cheltenham over 3m (good) last month.
He has won three chases from 2m 4f to 2m 5f on good to soft and soft ground. Beaten 7l by Swing Bill when second of 13 at 9-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Cheltenham over 3m (good) last month.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. A winner at 14-1 in a chase here over 3m 1f (good) on his latest outing in October, beating Santa's Son by 1/2l.
Winner of two hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. A winner at 14-1 in a chase here over 3m 1f (good) on his latest outing in October, beating Santa's Son by 1/2l.
Has won three hurdle races and five chases from 2m 1f to 3m 1f on good to firm and good ground. Finished 9l behind Roudoudou Ville when fourth of 9 at 16-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Sandown over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month. Has won at Fakenham and Ludlow this season.
Has won three hurdle races and five chases from 2m 1f to 3m 1f on good to firm and good ground. Finished 9l behind Roudoudou Ville when fourth of 9 at 16-1 on his latest outing in a chase at Sandown over 2m 4f (good to soft) last month. Has won at Fakenham and Ludlow this season.
Winner of three hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Pulled up at the 17th when 20-1 at Haydock over 3m 4f (good to soft) in a chase won by Neptune Equester last month on his latest outing. Has won 3 times this season.
Winner of three hurdle races and three chases from 2m to 3m on ground varying from good to firm to heavy. Pulled up at the 17th when 20-1 at Haydock over 3m 4f (good to soft) in a chase won by Neptune Equester last month on his latest outing. Has won 3 times this season.
He has won three chases from 2m 4f to 3m on good to soft and heavy ground. Third of 13 behind That'lldoboy beaten 24l at 15-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Newbury over 2m 6f (good) last month.
He has won three chases from 2m 4f to 3m on good to soft and heavy ground. Third of 13 behind That'lldoboy beaten 24l at 15-2 on his latest outing in a chase at Newbury over 2m 6f (good) last month.
Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m 1f to 3m 2f on good to firm and good ground. Well beaten at 11-4 behind My Moment when fourth of 5 on his latest outing in a chase at Fakenham over 3m (good) in October.
Has won two hurdle races, a NH flat race and five chases from 2m 1f to 3m 2f on good to firm and good ground. Well beaten at 11-4 behind My Moment when fourth of 5 on his latest outing in a chase at Fakenham over 3m (good) in October.
Placed in two chases from five starts. Beaten 9l by Leggy Lad when second of 15 at 3-1fav on his latest outing in a chase at Down Royal over 2m 6f (soft) last month.
Placed in two chases from five starts. Beaten 9l by Leggy Lad when second of 15 at 3-1fav on his latest outing in a chase at Down Royal over 2m 6f (soft) last month.
Winner of a hurdle race and five chases from 2m to 2m 4f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft. Well beaten at 5-1 behind Prophete De Guye when fifth of 7 on his latest outing in a chase at Market Rasen over 3m 1f (good) last month.
Winner of a hurdle race and five chases from 2m to 2m 4f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft. Well beaten at 5-1 behind Prophete De Guye when fifth of 7 on his latest outing in a chase at Market Rasen over 3m 1f (good) last month.
This trip proved ideal for STEWARTS HOUSE when the former Arthur Moore inmate made a winning start for Tim Vaughan at Newton Abbot in August and, following a minor breathing operation, he returned to action with a fine second behind Swing Bill off this mark over 3m1f at Cheltenham. The nine-year-old is entitled to come on for that run and the drop back in trip will suit. Frankie Figg, now with Paul Nicholls, simply loves these unique fences and beat Nikola by five lengths off a 4lb lower mark in this race 12 months ago. He is respected, as is fellow ex-Howard Johnson inmate Santa's Son, but the real eye-catcher is Irish challenger Linnel, who is 1lb out of the handicap but showed improved form at Down Royal last month and will enjoy the decent ground here.
There are plenty of front runners on show here and that could count against the likes of last year's winner Frankie Figg and the well-handicapped Buffalo Bob. Fine Parchment and Stewarts House are both respected, but the unexposed Linnel has the potential to do better in a strongly-run race at this trip and Paul Carberry's presence in the saddle is always a plus over these fences.
