Dancingontheedge has only a 1-14 strike-rate over hurdles but she could still pack a punch on this first run since September, representing Paul Nicholls and Harry Cobden, particularly as this is surely not a strong race. However, NORTHERN SYMPHONIE is one of two 5yos in the field and the manner of her win over 2m6f at Newton Abbot 15 days ago suggested that today's extra distance can help her to make this third appearance in a handicap another winning one.[Richard Austen]
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Chasing on first three starts this season, making all at Exeter (3m, good) in November; back to hurdles in another three-runner race at Taunton (3m, good to firm) 16 days ago, no match for the winner but he has won well in a good race since; C&D winner off 6lb lower one year ago and she's in the mix again, with 5lb claimer and cheekpieces recruited.
Won at Southwell and Sedgefield on her first two attempts at about 2m4f but two backward steps since; tried headgear on latest, which is dispensed with today; now a new trip is given a go.
0-12 but went very close at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) in December and returned to form with second at Warwick (2m3f, soft) in February latest; it's a concern that her forays over 2m5f, 2m6f and C&D, two of them this season, did not go well.
Struggled on last month's handicap debut at Exeter (2m7f, good) but, with a tongue-tie added, she registered her best form when second of five under Shane Fenelon over C&D (good) three weeks ago; probably needs extra to win (cheekpieces are added) but that latest run puts her in the picture.
Eighth attempt (fifth over hurdles) when always prominent to get off the mark in a five-runner handicap at Newton Abbot (2m6f, good) 15 days ago; 6lb higher today but it looked as if she'd stay.
Belatedly came good over hurdles with 17l win at Newton Abbot (extended 2m5f, good; 10lb higher today) last July and made the frame on all three starts since (3m2f/2m5f); the latest was her chasing debut in September; should prove highly competitive if she returns on song.
3-34 overall, with last win in July 2023; third over 3m2f on two of four starts for Rebecca Menzies last May-July and not disgraced 13 days ago for new yard after 265-day absence; others are a bit more persuasive, though.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
