Has been running with credit on turf, particularly when winning at Ayr last month. Won on the AW when trained in Ireland and would of interest if the market speaks in his favour.
Good recent form at this venue when trained by Michel Herrington, latterly when second in a 6f claimer. Starts out for a new trainer and is worthy of consideration.
Two C&D successes at the back end of last year and latest efforts suggest he is approaching his peak again. Up 4lb for finishing third of 11 last time, however.
Back-to-back wins at Beverley and Nottingham and was not disgraced off a higher mark at this venue two starts ago. Should be thereabouts again, but handicap rating may find him out.
Both wins have come in C&D handicaps, but he paid the penalty for those successes and is without a win in five starts since. Behind Viola Park last time.
Veteran performer who has done nothing in the last couple of seasons to suggest she is up to winning a race of this nature.
Forecasts
Christmas Night (13/8), Smugglers Creek (4/1), Grey Destiny (6/1), Stringybark Creek (7/1), Viola Park (8/1), Herm (10/1), Newstead Abbey (12/1), Sarangoo (22/1), Fossa (66/1), Portrush Storm (100/1)
Grey Destiny likes this C&D and would have been of serious interest but for his 4lb weight rise. He should still go well, a remark which also applies to the likes of Smugglers Creek and Stringybark Creek but, in a tight contest, the vote goes to NEWSTEAD ABBEY, who has been running well at this venue and may have been freshened up by a change of stable. Christmas Night, Viola Park and Herm are others to consider.