The thriving PARADOXICAL (nap) can shrug off a far from prohibitive-looking 4lb rise to complete the course hat-trick under a rider he's quickly gelled with. Init Together remains winless above 0-58 level, but the drop back to a winning distance gives him hope of upholding last-time superiority over Sense Of Worth (second in this race last year), and he's next most preferred given Jez Bomb's missing headgear. A return to form for Cosmos Raj would not surprise. [Jeremy Grayson]
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Finds his races each season, including over 8.6f around here this time last year (stays further also); below a winning level since returning from nine months out, if not by much last time; turn might be nearing.
His four most recent RPRs have been the best of his career, cheekpieces having eked out yet further improvement in wins over 8.6f and C&D here the last twice (both under Warren Fentiman); overcame a worse draw than tonight's here in December, and latest 4lb rise doesn't look prohibitive.
First of eight wins in 2024 was recorded over this C&D, and forgiven his last of nine back here latest (crowded start); taken on RPRs he's that bit more compelling a proposition over longer trips these days.
Winless over shorter than an extended 1m2f, but C&D record of 72202 includes a 1l second in this race last year off 2lb higher; in winning form over 1m4f here only last month, and more appeal than many.
Last home in a pair of Dundalk 1m events for current trainer; remains to be seen what he's still capable of on Tapeta, remaining unraced on it since almost making a winning Newcastle debut in November 2020.
2-2 here (one C&D); likely one race too many when below par latest, and may kick on again following a four-month rest and with a mark only 2lb above his last winning one; cheekpieces for every win are missing, though.
Beating horses for the first time in four runs when a keeping-on seventh over 1m4f here latest (denied clear run); have to take on trust he'll back that up, regardless of his latest career-low mark.
4-4 record in 0-58 or lower company earlier this year included two C&D scores; shaping as if still in form in defeat since, though either or both of the step up to 1m4f and 0-70 class ultimately found him out back here latest; has the latter detail to deal with again this time.
1/5 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
