Has never reached the heights predicted of him, but is nevertheless a talented chaser who has shown a liking for this C&D. Not disgraced behind a high-class stable companion last time and should be thereabouts.
Grand old campaigner who rolled back the years with a stirring win at Aintree in October. Well held at Ascot last time, with Josses Hill behind, and may be vulnerable to younger legs.
Useful handicapper who has struggled off his current mark on his last two starts. Tries his luck at Listed level and although connections are in great form, he looks to have plenty to prove.
A leading novice chaser in the North last season when his victims included high-class Politologue. Returned to action with a smooth win at Carlisle in November and although not see since, should be primed to take this rise in class in his stride.
Top-class chaser at his best, but does not quite win as often as his talent merits. Likes it here, though, stable is in good form and he is well suited by the conditions of this contest. Well behind Smad Place last time.
Forecasts
Waiting Patiently (13/8), God's Own (5/2), Smad Place (9/2), Josses Hill (8/1), Art Mauresque (16/1), Ballybolley (16/1)
A fascinating contest which sees the old guard in the shape of Smad Place, Josses Hill and God's Own pitched against the young pretender in WAITING PATIENTLY. Ready preference is for the latter, who is a fluent jumper and traveller whose best days lie head of him. He can cope with this rise in class en route to even better things.