This is a very competitive handicap chase over 2m 6.5f and with good ground forecast should be run at a lively pace.The four most successful trainers with runners in the race are Peter Bowen (3 wins, 3 placed from 14 entries in the last 10 years), Paul Nicholls (1 win, 2 placed from 10 entries), David Pipe (1 placed from 4 entries) and Philip Hobbs (2 placed from 7 entries).
Yes Sir probably represents Peter Bowen´s best chance. He has had a couple of runs on the flat at Pontefract and Chepstow which should have blown away any cobwebs. Having won this race off a mark 130 in 2006 he is now only 4lbs higher and should go well.
The Hobbs-trained Loita Hills is worth considering if the ground is good or faster. A course winner over 2m 4f he looked very progressive at Perth last time when accounting for Newbay Bob and Spirit Calling. He ran on very strongly at Perth so will be very suited by the extra 2.5f here.
Another that must be mentioned is the Charlie Pogson-trained Seymour Weld. Having only his fifth race over fences he annihilated the opposition over the course coming home 25l clear of that good yardstick Zilcash.
His jumping appeared to have improved tremendously and if this former plater is allowed his way up front he will take some pegging back. Seymour Weld is the selection.
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