There are several to consider here, notably Bel Amigo, who returns to a handicap after three wins in novice company. However, he may find this an insufficient test of stamina and Irish raider KINBARA FIRSTDRAFT, a C&D winner last June, is preferred. Course specialist Just Dottie is another who should go well.[Colin Russell]
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Has shown marked improvement since wind surgery, winning three novice races at Carlisle, the first two over 2m1f (good/good to soft) and the latest over 2m3f (good) when scoring by 16l; interesting back in a handicap, although this sharp 2m may not be ideal.
Won two handicaps last season, the first over C&D in June (good to firm), the second off 6lb lower over 2m4f at Ayr in November (good); creditable second to an improver at Down Royal on latest start (2m4f, good); chance
Useful Flat performer (second in the 2024 Northumberland Plate); not as good over hurdles so far, winning over 2m at Ayr on debut in November (good; first run after wind surgery) and last time finishing runner-up at Kelso (2m, good); quite interesting on h'cap debut.
Exposed; goes well on testing ground but latest win (off 10lb higher) was on good ground at Ayr in November (2m) when returning from a break; beaten 20l when eighth over C&D last month (good to soft; blinkers replaced regular visor); visor back on today; well handicapped, but a bit to prove.
Dual C&D winner last season, the first a mares' handicap in May, the latest off 9lb lower in April (beat a previous winner by 13l); on a career-high mark but stable in fine form; eye-catching jockey booking and an obvious contender.
Off the mark over hurdles in a C&D handicap last July (good); some fair Flat runs since, but was shade disappointing back over hurdles after racing too freely when only ninth over C&D last month (Cuban Cigar seventh, Mack the Man eighth); should fare better.
Exposed 7yo who is 3-32 over hurdles; runner-up over C&D off a 14lb higher mark in September (visor tried) but didn't build on that, including with blinkers which are on again here; fair run last time but others look stronger.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
