Cazoo Novices' Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race)

Much more like it when placed in a brace of handicaps over 2m in April. Just respectable efforts both starts following month, however, looking a tricky ride.

Fair maiden on the Flat and perfect start over hurdles when landing 9-runner Southwell novice (15.8f) in April. Hasn't fired since, though, and headgear now given a whirl.

Opened account at Newton Abbot in May and shaped better than bare result when fourth on handicap debut at Stratford. Good second at Fontwell since and should go well again.

Low-key start in handicaps but off 5 months and back to very best when ½-length second of 14 to African Sun (8 lb better off with that one here) at Uttoxeter 3 weeks ago. Seen to good effect that day but still a likely candidate up 1 lb.

Seemingly showed much improved form on his third start over hurdles when fifth of 10 in novice at Huntingdon (15.8f, heavy, 200/1) 152 days ago. Makes handicap hurdle debut. Remains unexposed.

In the frame on both starts in bumpers for J. M. Ridley and went close in a weak maiden on his hurdles/stable debut at Uttoxeter (15.8f) in June. However, failed to repeat that next 2 starts. Makes handicap hurdle debut.

No impact over hurdles last autumn, including a handicap. Does arrive on the back of some creditable placed efforts on the Flat in recent weeks but others are still preferred back jumping.

Poor hurdler who had the run of the race when off the mark at Uttoxeter 3 weeks ago, beating Annual Review by ½ a length. Opposable off 9 lb higher (5 lb out of the handicap).

Showed little in a trio of bumpers and has fared no better in novice hurdles. 15 lb out of the handicap.