Cartmel

Versatile sort who won back-to-back maiden/novice races over C&D last summer. Better than ever recently, following up his narrow success in small-field chase here with a gallant 2½-length win in a course handicap hurdle (2¾m) off this mark latest. Bit more needed back chasing for hat-trick bid.

Different model since the switch to fences, making it 2-2 with ease in a small-field event at Uttoxeter (2½m) in late-June. Shaped as if still ahead of his mark and looking the likeliest winner when unseating at Perth last time. Very interesting up in trip for stable with good record in this race.

Front runner who gained a third win since joining Tristan Davidson with a game display here (21f) in late-June. Subsequently ran a cracker when 3½ lengths third in the Summer Plate. In the form of his life and worth a go over this sort of trip.

Ground-versatile sort who has gone from strength to strength for current connections, winning handicaps at Uttoxeter and Perth this summer. Continued in good heart when 1½-length second to a fellow veteran at Uttoxeter (3m, good). Expected to run another good race here.

Hold-up type who has built up a solid course record this season, notching his second success from 4 starts in a 3-runner C&D event last time. Plenty went right for him that day, though, and he could be vulnerable off 4 lb higher in a stronger race.

Thorough stayer who completed a 5-timer over C&D (heavy) in June last year. Typically made hard work of it when 8½ lengths third of 6 at Uttoxeter (3m, good to soft) in early-July. May do better from his slipping mark following a breathing operation, especially if the ground becomes testing.

Likeable veteran who added to a fine course record when 6 lengths behind Caughtinyourtrance in a 2¾m handicap hurdle (good) last time. Return of cheekpieces/greater test of stamina will benefit here, though may fall short in his bid to repeat his 2024 victory in this corresponding event.