Back in the groove of late, twice placed at Uttoxeter either side of an impressive win at Cartmel. Took this race last year, and although he's 10lb higher now, he enters calculations.
Leading novice in 2016/17. Best effort last term when 5½L fourth of 6 to Politologue in Tingle Creek at Sandown before falling in Champion Chase. Off since, but handicapper has given him a big chance.
Much improved to land a hat-trick over fences this season, again making all and jumping soundly when winning at Uttoxeter last time. Has risen 22lb for those wins. however, and meeting a better calibre of rival now.
Back to form to win Scottish Champion Chase over 2m at Musselburgh in February for Paul Nicholls, but has his quirks, and not looked an easy ride in subsequent starts. Possible a change of stable will sweeten him up, but risky.
Last two wins have come over C&D, following up previous year's win when taking handicap chase here in June. Matched that form when third over 3m last time, but seems just in handicapper's grip on that evidence.
Made a winning return following a break when successful in first time cheekpieces over hurdles here in July (first win for almost three years), but not so good on the Flat at Tramore last time. Market will guide now reverting to fences.
Winner over the larger obstacles at Down Royal in May, and ran well when placed off lower hurdles mark at Sligo last time. Stiff task from out of the weights on return to fences, however.
Forecasts
Imperial Presence (9/4), Charbel (5/2), Hammersly Lake (5/1), Indian Temple (7/1), Marracudja (8/1), Rightdownthemiddle (12/1), Fenlon's Hill (33/1)
CHARBEL had a mixed time of things last season, but is a class act, and has been handed a lifeline by the handicapper. He should be able to beat Hammersly Lake in receipt of weight, and while Imperial Presence is respected after his recent hat-trick, he is asked a much sterner test at this level. Marracudja has talent, but he's not at all easy, and is a risky proposition despite recently moving to Dan Skelton.