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Big Bard was denied a run the other day. His last two runs were encouraging and he is versatile enough to respond well to his amateur rider. Decent chance in an open-looking race.

Through The Ages was an impressive winner around here just over a year ago but has been struggling so far this winter. Hopefully, returning to the scene of that wide-margin success might inspire him.

Non-runner

Old Cowboy is a nicely-bred recruit from the English pointing field. He ran okay both times and we're looking forward to this Rules debut.

Luna Effect has been qualifying for a hurdles mark with three recent runs. Before that, he was unplaced behind today's rival The Colorist and the small swing in the weights in his favour may not prove enough.

Gone Rogue was bought out of the Charlie Johnston stable last autumn. There was no immediate promise around here three weeks ago, but it's early days and we'll hope for a better showing this time.

It's hard to forget Voodoo Ray's terrific spring hat-trick at Brighton, but his recent AW form has been in direct contrast. Last of 12 in each of his two latest runs around here, all we can hope is that he realises the handicapper has given him a decent chance.

Big Bard has been a regular winner with four on turf and two on AW, including one over this CD. He is 5lb lower on a synthetic surface and that ought to make him a threat to all today.

Bohemian Breeze has been a beaten favourite the last twice. At Kempton, he was denied running room a couple of times in the straight and we think he would have finished much nearer with a clear run. Hoping the luck goes his way tonight.

Cosmic View shaped much better the other day  after returning from a long break. We are hoping he might figure if he can improve again today.

Poncho put in a disappointing effort, returned to hurdling at Windsor last month, but he had won well enough on Lingfield's AW before that. He's up a couple of pounds here and we're giving a first ride to our young apprentice Ashley Lewis.

It's been small steps for Aggagio, figures 765, this winter and reduced margins of defeat each time too. He knows how to win and the mark is beginning to look tempting.

Diplomatic Ash props up the weights in this handicap but there is only a small range top to bottom. Freddie's 5lb and first-time cheek-pieces can put him in the shake-up.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Kissman won a novice hurdle at Compiegne in the spring. In his two runs for us this season he has yet to be competitive and top-weight based on that French form looks tough here.

Risk It All was a winner of his only French flat race and showed bags of promise in a valuable juvenile hurdle at Kempton. This looks his to lose.

Mark of Gold made a tremendous winning debut over fences when picking up a Grade 2 at Ascot with plenty to spare. He has not been raised from the 142 rating he earned as a prolific-winning hurdler so although he concedes plenty of weight to his two opponents, we are expecting a successful follow-up.

Joycean Way had three overall respectable runs as a juvenile for the Roger Varian stable. Gelded since and returning after 14 months, we like him and will be looking for a run in the money.

Hot Shot Lawyer is a newcomer by Inns Of Court. We hope he can make a bright start to his career in this 3yo maiden.

Abingworth did well last season once turning to fences, running consistently in handicaps. It hasn't been such plain sailing since he returned from a summer break, but he's been getting some respite from the handicapper. Each-way chances if he can reach last year's best form.

Havaila showed some promise in staying handicaps on the flat in the autumn but his two runs over jumps since then have been disappointing considering there were no fitness issues. On his best form, he would have a decent shout.

Third in the Triumph Hurdle last year, Salver was making his first appearance since when 4th in a strong handicap at Newbury. This is another tough assignment but he should be much straighter now and is a horse that finds plenty when needed. Hopeful.

Royal Way rattled up a quick hat-trick last season but has not built on it so far this term. This is easier company, though, and he could go close if finding his feet again.

Non-runner

With half a dozen of these already showing placed form at one level or another, I'm Your Buckaroo is likely to be up against it on his first taste of any racecourse action. We'd like a nice safe run around the demanding Cheltenham track.

Tara Iti has been running well following two 2nd places in selling hurdles with another in a handicap at Plumpton last time. His day could have arrived.

Invincible Nao made a disappointing return to action at Sandown recently. He should improve for the outing and this is a winnable race.

Hudson De Grugy won grittily at Fontwell last time, but now steps up a little in grade. He can run better than his price suggests.

Spirit d'Aunou has yet to rediscover last season's form. We're trying first-time cheek-pieces in the hope that we will see the real Spirit.

Jetronic made an improvement on 2nd run since joining us this season. He had decent form in his previous stable and further progress today would put him right into the argument.

Hansard has been off for just more than a year, but he only needs to return to the smart form of all his three runs last winter to hold every chance here. Tough and genuine, we're hoping he can get close on this comeback.

Editeur Du Gite won this race 12 months ago off a 9lb higher mark. His form since has been contrastingly moderate but he has been lumbered with tough tasks. Hoping seeing Kempton might inspire him to something like his best form.

Risk It All, as his name implies, is a son of No Risk At All, a top jumps stallion in France. Easy winner of his one race in the French provinces last year, he could have been quite a bargain, bought for 30k a fortnight after. We've had plenty of luck with lightly-raced horses with a similar profile and we're looking forward to his first run.

Lumi Plugin had two good 2nd places around Fontwell in the spring. He starts handicapping on a mark of 107 and in a big field like this, he cannot afford to make any mistakes. Interesting.

Hermino AA made a highly satisfactory return to action, winning nicely at Newbury last month. The 6lb rise isn't generous, but he's going the right way and can follow up.

Non-runner

Cresta Cat rattled up a 12-day soft-ground hat-trick on the flat in October. He made his hurdles debut at Kempton and found the opposition in a 26k to the winner novice too hot. There's plenty in this too that will be ahead of him in the market.

Heaven Smart was an easy winner over 3m at Kempton in February but has been lower than that of late, seemingly struggling to get home. His mark is nearer the Kempton rating and a bounce back to form wouldn't be a shock.

Red Cloud had a couple of flat wins starting in the bargain basement and is rated 23lb lower than our other runner. He will need to improve vastly on his initial jumps run around Kempton.

Another double chance. Galactic Charm was an 80-rated handicapper on the flat with Michael Bell and he made a bright start for us when 2nd at Sandown. He looks comfortably our better option and is clearly the one to beat. He could have the makings of a decent juvenile hurdler.

Non-runner

Everest kept smart company in her bumper season and understandably found it tough. It gave her good experience though and she should be much more competitive in novice hurdles, although this isn't the easiest starting point.

Two more in this. Pearl's Pirate shaped nicely in his only previous racecourse start - 3rd in a 13.5f bumper here in the spring. We're looking for a bright first hurdles run to build on that initial promise.

Sanitiser took his time winning over hurdles, but as that success was in a conditionals' handicap at Kempton, he escapes a penalty in this novice hurdle. On top of that, promising conditional Rob takes 7lb off so it looks a good opportunity. We're pretty much ignoring the last run at Fakenham, a track that doesn't suit many horses.

Kalif d'Airy has come back after his summer break with two ordinary performances. He's down nicely in the handicap but still tops the weights in this 0-100 affair. Should be getting closer.

Non-runner

Swatch took three runs to get a first win for us, eight days ago at Wolverhampton. There he beat today's rival Book Of Life by half a length and now is 2lb worse off. Likely to be close between the pair again.

Voodoo Ray has five turf wins, mostly at Brighton and no places on AW. Top-weight here won't help his quest to alter the latter statistic.

Gone Rogue had a couple of 2nd places during the summer for the Charlie Johnston stable. We picked him up for 9k at the Tatts HIT sale and would expect him to be preferred in the market today to Cosmic View. We'll be delighted if either makes the frame.

Two in this. Cosmic View started at long prices for three unplaced runs early in the year, all around Kempton. Eight months on, we'll be looking for a better showing.

Botox Has could have done with softer gound. He ran well in this last year and has come on for his reappearance at Cheltenham. He would be an each-way chance at a big price if it rained heavily.

Kotmask was 3rd and then 2nd in successive races around here last month, when possibly the first effort was slightly the better. In-form and consistent, he should be bang there at the finish.

Two in this and Black Gerry returns after eight months off and in first-time cheek-pieces. His mark dropped 10lb over the course of last season and the previous Ascot winner could be a dangerous outsider.

Mark Of Gold has an enviable record of wins, seven from 20 over hurdles and three more on the level. He starts chasing in a four-runner novice affair where his hurdle rating suggests (unlike the bookmakers) he has a big chance. Interesting.

Junkanoo won at Plumpton early in the year, but apart from a decent showing at Fontwell two runs back, overall his form has been disappointing. He will need to improve a great deal on that to make the first four in this tight 18-runner handicap.

Yellow Star was beaten a long way in 3rd at Plumpton last month when pushed up to race at 2m4f for the first time. It's a little further again today. We're changing the headgear and hope that makes a difference.

Big Bard won over the Lingfield AW 6f and then was beaten only half a length straight after on the turf at the Surrey course during the summer. He has been in a slight slump more recently but he only ever needs to nudge up a little in performance to be competitive at this level.

It's probably fair to say that Rage Of Thunder's best run in five was first time in a handicap around here, beaten not too far. He didn't build on it at Lingfield two weeks ago but the hope is he enjoys it round here and will go more in line with that.

Considering he missed the break and trailed his field for a long time, Silk And Steel's latest run is probably better than it appears. A similar improvement might get him close to running into the money.

Pyrotechnic has been beaten a similar distance in his three runs since returning from a break with the benefit of a wind operation. Top-weight here after his 2nd place over CD a week ago, he has his chance.

Havaila has some decent staying performances to his credit at 2m on the flat and when winning a hurdle over 2m4f. He was a well-beaten 3rd last time but now going up to almost 3m we hope we've chosen the right path for him.

Officer Of State looked good when making a 12-length winning return at Fontwell last month and it may have been a bit quick when we ran him back at Southwell a week later as a beaten odds-on chance. He was raised 17lb for the win, and while we expect him to run well, it won't be easy.

Moulins Clermont was off the track for almost two years before his recent comeback on this track last month. He looked ring-rusty then as he trailed the field from the outset and may need a run or two more to get going again.

Miller Spirit had a great 2024 flat season and built on that with a smooth win on debut here over hurdles. This is only a three-runner affair and while the favourite has more jumping experience, Miller Spirit has toughness from his flat racing days and we think he can upset the odds.

Angel's Dream got the better of today's rival Superstylin in a recent clash over this CD. They are weighted to run close again but we hope he may have a little more improvement to come.

Justice Roll won a 1m5f flat race in France during the summer. He has raced twice for us, finishing a promising 3rd on debut before disappointing last time. He has a fair bit to find on form with a few of these.

We run two in this. Rip Wheeler won a UK point before joining. He wasn't disgraced on hurdles debut at Newbury late last month and should show the benefit from that outing with an improved display.

Taita Hills is also an English point winner, but he had almost two years between his first and second runs for the stable. He wasn't disgraced after the layoff behind our smart horse Miller Spirit when he made a winning jumps debut around here last month. He can improve on that today.

Tara Iti has run 2nd in his last two but both were selling hurdle races. He is consistent but whether he can end his long losing run is questionable. Can be placed again though.

Jack Sparrow Grey has shown very little so far. His time should come when he receives a handicap mark.

Diplomatic Ash ran a lot better last time at Lingfield, staying on well in the closing stages but without landing a blow. He should be that much further forward today and in an ordinary contest, can go close.

Poncho had been running on the flat before his latest pipe-opener over jumps when 5th at Plumpton. He switched back to the level at Lingfield the other day and won a 2m handicap with ease off 70. The correlation of that form suggests he will be hard to beat here off 107.

Abingworth has come back from his summer break with a couple of ordinary efforts, not yet matching last season's consistent form. It wouldn't be a shock if he found his form again here.

Willoughby Cleeve made his debut for us along the road at Ascot almost exactly a year ago. when as a 100/1 shot he trailed the field in a bumper and finished a long last. We will be going there hoping to see him get round and ideally beat a few.

Swatch joined us this autumn from Alice Haynes. His first run was better than his latest and top-weight might be tough, even though he has been allowed 3lb for the last run. We're still finding out about him.

Issar d'Airy kept improving throughout last season and appeared to have maintained the progress when a good 2nd first time back at Ascot last month. A well-backd favourite four weeks later at Newbury he faded disappointingly after looking a threat, but it would not be a surprise to see him bounce back with a good run here.

Le Patron impressed with the style of his recent win at Newbury, first time back from a break. He's 7lb higher for this top handicap chase but it would be unwise to under-estimate him.

Cloud Dancer won a juvenile hurdle in February 2023 but never looked remotely near that form last year. Well beaten on this season's comeback, he will need tomake extravagant improvement to win this.

non-runner

Luna Effect hasn't shown much on the flat since joining from Roger Varian. He did finish 2nd, admittedly well beaten, in the 2nd of three runs over hurdles, but he needs to show more to win this handicap off top-weight.

Cosmic View had a disappointing time on joining the stable last winter, especially earlier this year. He returns after nine months off and will need to find something we haven't yet seen.

Walks Like The Man won a point before landing a bumper, then hurdle for previous connections. His stable and chase debut was disappointing but with the run behind him, he could go much better here.

Kotari did well on the flat in the summer having been disappointing in hurdle races over the winter. His flat mark went up to 85, so surely he can make an impact here off only 93.

Our Papa Smurf won at Goodwood off a lowish mark in the summer. His first two efforts over hurdles have been moderate but when he can be eligible for a mark he can be more effective in handicaps.

Cephalus has won nine of his 21 races on AW, including one here three years ago for previous connections. He put up a four-timer early in the year but after a break has been out of form. He needs to get back on track.

Hudson De Grugy did well in the 2022-23 season but was restricted to only four runs last term and was slightly disappointing overall. He pulled up on last month's reappearance and even though dropped 4lb for that it's hard to be too optimistic about his chance here.

Another double chance. Pyrotechnic looked dangerous for a while on his latest start at Huntingdon but didn't seem to go through with the effort. The first-time hood might solve that problem.

Tara Iti won in July last year and latterly has been runner-up in two selling hurdles. This race isn't the greatest and he is consistent at his level. Could have an each-way chance off bottom-weight.

Two in this. Peking Opera won at Sandown on hurdles and stable debut last February but hasn't been remotely near winning since. Smart on the flat in Ireland last year, we're beginning to run out of excuses.

Agaggio didn't make it to Huntingdon on yesterday's difficult roads, but Lingfield is much nearer and doesn't involve the M25. He has been disappointing of late and we need to see him starting to show something of his best old form.

Everest was 2nd in the first of three bumpers but, raised in class, didn't figure in the other two. There's a clean slate going hurdling and it will be interesting to see how she shapes.

Iskar d'Airy was just getting his act together at the end of the 2022-23 season, winning nicely at Plumpton. Off since then, he may need a run to get his eye in but there's no doubt we would have been fancying him to follow up off the new mark had we been able to run him then. Hopeful.

As his name implies, Muddle In The Sky is owned by Christine Muddle, and is a half-sibling to a couple of winning chasers we've trained for her. Late husband Ron used to own Lingfield. Tough with a previous winner sent over by Willie Mullins in the line-up.

Non-runner - travel problems

We've two in this and neither Royal Way nor Spirit d'Aunou has struck form yet this term. We expected a better run from Royal Way last time in the Greatwood at Cheltenham but after racing prominently, he dropped away from halfway. This, too, is a classy field and he'll need to show more to be winning one of these.

Spirit d'Aunou's form dropped off last spring although he was running in very hot handicap company. He didn't get very far on his comeback run at Ascot either. Like Royal Way, he needs to find more to look a likely winner of this, especially with his big weight.

Authorized Art ran last time in the Grand Sefton at Aintree and made a couple of serious mistakes on the way round - hardly ideal over the Grand National course. His hurdles rating is a stone lower and we hope he can run into the first four to qualify for the final of this at Cheltenham.

Cresta Cat struck form with a quick hat-trick on the flat during October but the sequence ended at Nottingham off his higher mark. He has schooled nicely and we're hopeful of a decent first run over hurdles.

Another double shot in this handicap hurdle and Authentic Legacy, 2nd in all three of his hurdles starts, deserves to go one better. He seems fairly handicapped.

Ex-French Kissman won well at Compiegne for previous connections but was beaten a long way on stable debut in a four-horse race at Fontwell. He hasn't been over-sensitively handicapped and even though down 4lb after Fontwell, it might take a race or two for him to become competitive.

Jupiter Du Gite is somewhat of a reformed character over fences, seemingly not so headstrong. He still likes to make the running but in a more measured manner and last time was possibly a little unlucky to be reeled in at Fontwell. Has every chance of going one better.

Invincible Nao was moving through the handicap chase grades nicely last season but didn't get very far before unseating on his final start at Ascot. We may have found the ideal race for his return and hope he can jump round accurately.

Two runners in this juvenile hurdle and both have identical flat ratings at 80. Galactic Charm stays very well and ought to be just the type for hurdling as his home schools suggest, but this is his debut.

Small Fry won three and was 2nd in the other three of his last six runs on the flat. He was odds-on for his hurdles debut but failed to quicken from the last at Fontwell. He will know more about it today.

Having been well beaten in each of his five runs for the stable, ex-Irish  Ocean Odyssey showed something a bit more encouraging last time. Despite going too free and then being denied a clear run late on, he was beaten less than four lengths when finishing in the middle at Kempton last month. The wide draw is a nuisance but this could be the day he shows us something at last.

Big Bard was very consistent all year and even after his short late-summer break he wasn't disgraced at Newmarket. Genuine and tough, this is his level. Hopeful.

Bohemian Breeze improved a good deal from 1st run to 2nd for the stable when keeping on well for 3rd in a decent Lingfield handicap. Normal improvement from that should see him involved and we got the feeling last time that a right-hand track might suit him better.

Scammer is a homebred newcomer that runs in Gary's name. On the face of it, he is drawn well in one, but he needs a fast start and speed to the bend if he is to avoid crowding. Best watched.

Nancy P won around here in the summer but her form then tailed off for her previous yard. A cheap buy at the HIT sale, we hope she can show more of the earlier form and that would suggest she can prove a bargain.

Jolyjump was always galloping all over his Sothwell opponents and won pulling a cart. Nine pounds for four lengths though is hardly a gift but we hope he can manage that big a jump in his mark.

We run two in this and Dannick has to concede 8lb plus Jack's handy 3lb to Rage Of Thunder, He also has by far the worse of the draw between them, but he showed signs in his turf runs that he has plenty of untapped potential.

Rage Of Thunder has slightly the greater experience of our pair and has had a go on AW already, running respectably at Chelmsford. It might be close between them with chances in an open contest.

In finishing 2nd on his last flat run, Poncho was actually beaten a long way at Goodwood but battled through the testing conditions. Back over jumps last time, he was disappointing but now returning to AW he should have place chances in an ordinary contest.

Semser has been getting nearer his old form through the summer and into the autumn. He was a good 2nd of 15 at Chelmsford last time and from a good inside draw has everything on his side. Hopeful.

Silk And Steel looked very green on his debut trailing the field throughout. He ought to improve with the run behind him but the widest draw does not offer much confidence. A run in the middle would be satisfactory.

Through The Ages had a couple of wins either side of the New Year, the 2nd over 2m here in January. He has come back steadily from his summer break but should be coming into form and we think he will be suited by this 2m4f.

Jack Sparrow Grey has been off since December last year after two runs, the first probably a little better. He qualifies for a handicap mark after today.

Havaila joined us this year and so far has been restricted to the flat, running in staying handicaps. He ran some nice races and now reverts to jumping at which he won a handicap hurdle at Sandown in January for his previous stable. Interesting.

Another double challenge, two nice young horses in a competitive handicap chase. Issar d'Airy went through the grades last season, ending 21lb higher than when he started the campaign. Only six, he has scope for further progress.

Jetronic won a chase in France early in 2023 and won a hurdle for Paul Nicholls last season. He pulled up in a handicap hurdle at Cheltenham first time for us last month and now switches back to chasing and should be straighter in condition. Something of a shot in the dark and we'll learn plenty more about him today.

Three juvenile wins and 3rd in the Triumph Hurdle are a fair indication of Salver's talent. He resumes in this Intermediate Hurdle, a very strong renewal, and can come out on top. We are surprised he's the price he is, a bit like Le Patron yesterday!

Two in this. Ballybentragh gave owner-rider David Maxwell plenty of fun last season and David is back enthusiastic as ever. It's a demanding start for his horse, but he doesn't know how to run a bad race.

Hermino AA had a couple of close placed runs last winter including a last-time 3rd here in the spring. Freddie, who rode him that day, is on board again and his 5lb claim will be helpful.

Le Patron had a great novice chase season, the highlight of his three wins coming in the Henry VIII at Sandown. He didn't match that in his last two at the same level but he's fresh and ready to take on classy senior handicappers this season.

Non-runner

Moulins Clermont has been off for almost two years as he makes his chase debut. He was coming along nicely as a novice hurdler before the career interruption and hopefully he makes a good start at the new discipline today.

Rip Wheeler dead-heated for the 2nd of his three UK points last season. He is by Walk In The Park, as is today's favourite who cost 660k! Tough starting point.

Angel's Dream failed to get round in two runs in the summer, the latter when falling on chasing debut. On earlier hurdles form, today's mark looks lenient and if he completes he could be in business.

Two in this. Miller Spirit continued to improve through the flat season and won three handicaps in a row before running 6th of 23 in the November Handicap. If he jumps on the track as well he has at home, he will be very hard to beat.

Taita Hills won his UK point with ease before running well on debut for us. That was 20 months ago and he was 4th to stable-companion All Authorized at Fontwell.

Nachtgeist had a gelding opertion in the summer. His first hurdles run after that was considerably better than his effort last time at Ascot. At his best, this German Group-race winner on the flat would have to be a contender.

Non-runner

Heaven Smart is a front-runner who hasn't always been the most secure of jumpers. He came back from a break with an okay run at Fontwell last time when he did jump right on occasion. He has already shown he likes Kempton where he won in February.

Red Cloud won two and finished 2nd in four more of his ten races at a low level on the flat. He gradually improved but still finished only with a 57 rating. He is the type that could do well as a jumper and we're looking forward to this debut.

Kotmask was an excellent 3rd over the CD on his comeback three weeks ago. He should be straighter now and appeals as an each-way banker.

Non-runner

Pyrotechnic made a promising comeback, staying on after leading and dropping back at Wincanton. He has an each-way chance in a wide-open handicap.

Non-runner

Spirit d'Aunou was a 66/1 chance for his final run last season, in a valuable handicap hurdle over 2m4f at the Grand National meeting. He didn't get a clear run round so by finishing 5th of 18 he easily outperformed his odds. He's an amazing horse who has won five of his ten career starts and while dropping to 2m might not be ideal, nothing he does ever surprises us.

Cephalus put together a rapid four-timer early in the year. He has had a break and has been feeling his way since. Getting there we hope.

Call Off The Dogs has been brilliant for us this year, adding a 3rd win in September to the two he recorded in the spring. He put in a rare sub-standard run last time, never getting into contention, but he could well bounce back today.

Bated Breeze remains high in the weights. His last few runs have been disappointing and considering he has yet to win a race, he needs some help from the handicapper.

Non-runner

Thundering Breeze was beaten a fair way on her recent comeback from a three-month break. It's hard to offer too much enthusiasm for her chance. Needs to show us more.

Celtic Ned was beaten a long way in 4th on his comeback after eight months. Better ground and the run behind him might spark a better showing here.

Bohemian Beeze started at a massive price for his stable debut the other day. Down 2lb, that may not be enough to get him going from here.

Cloud Dancer ran well on his return from his summer break, finishing 2nd two months ago at Fontwell. A winner at Newbury early in 2023, he has come down a reasonable amount in the handicap since and Caoilin can claim 3lb in this boys' race. Hopeful.

Sanitiser finally opened his account over hurdles with a smooth win last week at Kempton. He has been raised 4lb in the new ratings but he can run off the same mark as that was a conditionals' race while Freddie can claim 6lb here as he's riding for his own stable. Too good to be true? We hope not.

Tara Iti made a creditable comeback in a selling handicap hurdle at Huntingdon last week. This level weights seller puts him in with a big deficit with the Candlish horse.

Royal Way was very progressive in his juvenile season and made a promising return around here last month. He'll need to improve a good deal to win this, but he is a horse of real potential.

It was great that Nassalam won us the Welsh Grand National so impressively last December, but he has paid a big price in terms of his mark. Handicappers clearly enjoy pushing horses up rather than dropping them down! Tough task under this weight.

Newcomer Small Fry is far superior to Our Papa Smurf on the level and has been running very well all year. As long as the jumping holds up, he should go very close.

We run two in this. Our Papa Smurf was beaten a long way on his first jumps start and has since run poorly on the level at Brighton.

Luna Effect is a maiden on the flat, but his first two runs over hurdles suggest he might have more luck in that sphere. This is a good opportunity to get that first success.

Authentic Legacy was a well-beaten 2nd at Fakenham but he should have come on for that run. He has an obvious chance, but he does face one or two potential improvers.

Everest was a good 2nd on debut at Southwell in the summer. She found the company too hot first time back on this course last month. We hope she can improve, but it's a deep mares' race.

Editeur Du Gite begins another season still suffering in the handicap for his earlier exploits, among them big performances around here. The stretch to 2m4f didn't seem to suit on his recent comeback at Chepstow, but  he could easily outrun his very long odds back on this track.

Officer Of State won very nicely at Fontwell a week ago. It seemed a bit of an over-reaction for the handicapper to put him up 22lb, but we have to live with that. The 5lb penalty here gives him a good chance as the new mark doesn't kick in until tomorrow.

Icare Grandchamp signed off his summer campaign with a win at Newton Abbot but seemed a bit ring-rusty at Bangor. He should be match-fit and much more dangerous today.

Jolyjump returned from his break with a sub-standard round of jumping at Fakenham. A better display in that department would give him every chance in this small field.

Non-runner

Voodoo Ray made a rare excursion away from Brighton to here four runs back and didn't feature. He hasn't been at his best in his last three runs on the south coast either and needs to regroup if he is to take a hand in this today.

Walks Like The Man makes his debut for us having been in two other yards for his two latest runs. He was a 225k buy in February last year, and won twice. By Walk In The Park, he can come into his own over fences.

We run two in this. Diplomatic Ash ran in some decent races last term without setting the world on fire. We've switched him to fences this season and hope that the misfortune he had on chase debut last time will not come his way again. Starting from what could prove to be a nice mark.

Pennsylvanie last time ran the better of two races since joining us. The blinkers replace the cheek-pieces this time and we hope this promising mare can do the business.

Tara Iti returns after his summer break in a handicap hurdle that seems less competitive than most of those he contested last season. We hope he can run a nice race and maybe get into the money.

Sanitiser has been running well over hurdles. Freddie had a ride on him at Fontwell last time and that should stand them in good stead in this conditional riders' race. He's overdue a first jumps win.

Hurricane Pat, our other runner, has experience from two second places in Irish point-to-points. This looks potentially a decent bumper so we'll be hoping for a prominent showing for our pair.

Two also in this. Edward Sexton, who makes his debut, is by Jukebox Jury out of a mare who won her three races, two bumpers and a Grade 3 hurdle, all in Ireland. Edward Sexton is her first foal to run and owner-tbreeder David Dunsdon has the ride. 

Since Peking Opera made a winning stable debut in a juvenile hurdle around here in February, his form over jumps and flat has been very disappointing. We'll be looking for a revival.

Two in this. Abingworth had been progressing nicely over fences last term until a mistake caused him to unseat on his last start. The letter "U" also appeared against his name first time back, but that wasn't his fault as he was badly hampered going into that fence at Huntingdon. With luck, he can go well.

Hudson De Grugy, who joins Abingworth in this, resumes after seven months off. His latest season was disappointing but as he showed during previous campaigns, he has plenty of talent.

Through The Ages had a good juvenile season with two wins, but the stern handicap mark proved too hot to handle. He's still high enough and will need to improve on his comeback run at Chepstow last month to figure.

Miller Spirit has been improving by leaps and bounds in recent weeks. The by-product of his three consecutive wins is the raising of his mark by 18lb but he could hardly be in better fettle and is one horse guaranteed to handle the ground. Hoping for number four!

Two runners in the November Handicap and there's no mistaking that Kotari has the less convincing recent credentials. That said, he has been 4th in his last two races and may challenge for a minor placing.

Authorized Art ran a terrific first race for us over hurdles at Kempton in a decent 2n conditions race. He is much more used to racing over further and fences as he was most of the time when with Willie Mullins. He is used to racing in fields of this quality and if he adapts to these fences, he could surprise one or two. Value each-way bet.

Officer Of State is rated 83 on the flat based on his decent French form. His three hurdle runs in competitive novice races last season for us have brought a hurdles mark of 97. He could be well in or conversely very badly handicapped on the flat. We'll find out more this afternoon!

Kissman was an impressive 8l winner of an AQPS hurdle race at Compeigne in May. He was an expensive buy but is shaping well and though he concedes a stone to the four-time winner Double Powerful, he should be bang in contention.

Heaven Smart won with an all-he-way effort at Kempton in May but then unseated the next twice. He did complete the course last time out in May and as long as his jumping holds up, he'll be a contender from the front once more.

Call Off The Dogs won twice in May around here and we finished him off after his 2nd placed effort the following month. He returned from his break with another battling effort over the CD six weeks ago and while he's up 5lb and carries top weight, it's hard to rule him out.

Cephalus pulled off an all-weather four-timer early in the year. He's had a couple of ring-rust-removing runs on turf since his break and may now be ready to resume enjoying the artificial surfaces. Hopeful.

It took a hefty price to secure El Cairos, winner of his sole point-to-point, at the sales soon after that race this spring. He has a nice pedigree and we're looking forward to seeing him run.

Junkanoo looks to have run himself into form judged on his close 3rd at Fontwell the other day. It's competitive, but he has the right profile for this.

Bohemian Breeze was running well in the summer with a couple of handicap 2nd places and in that context,  his sale from Charlie Johnston looked inexpensive at 10k. He needs to improve on his stable debut, but we know the quality is in there.

Platinum Prince won at 66/1 at Goodwood and his subsequent 2nd staying on at Bath suggested the win hadn't been a fluke. Chances to get back in the winner's circle again.

Cresta Cat has been in superlative form, his three-in-a-row appearing not to be the end of his progress. Ground and trip should be in his favour so number four looks on the cards.

Ocean Odyssey has been beaten a long way on all his UK runs, from this stable. He needs to find something before long.

Justice Roll, a son of Churchill, won a 1m5f flat race in France for the Pantall stable. He made a promising jumping and stable debut a couple of weeks ago at Kempton when a solid 3rd. If he can build on that he will be very competitive here.

Poncho had a warm-up in the jump jockeys handicap at Goodwood recently after a five-month break since his lst jump runs. Niall rode him then - and while beaten a long way by the winner in 2nd place, he was ahead of Mark Of Gold - and retains the ride here. Each-way hopes.

Aggagio has run only modestly in two runs after a break, at Goodwood on the flat and then at Wincanton a couple of weeks again. He needs to wake his ideas up.

Yellow Star was a good 4th of 20 in Sandown's end-of-season novice championship final and returned with a promising effort in the same position at Chepstow. He gets 23lb from our other runner and must be hard to beat.

We run two in this handicap hurdle. Mark Of Gold tops the weights. If he could recapture the form of his Kempton success in February, he would probably figure, but he ended last season disappointingly and has it to prove again here.

Nelson Gate has been beaten a long way in both runs over further than today's mile on testing ground at Goodwood. The hope he that he will enjoy this surface sufficiently to show a little more.

Hurricane Pat showed promise in both his Irish point-to-points last season, staying on well for a closer 2nd in the latter of them. This is usually a decent race and we'll be pleased if he gets in amongst them.

The Ron Do Ron has been consistent so far - two fourth places in bumpers and another on hurdles debut. Back from his summer break, we'll be looking for a different digit today, hopefully a smaller one!

Issar d'Airy started last season with a couple of nice handicap chase wins around Newbury, but the handicapper took stern revenge. He struggled in his only two subsequent runs and remains high in the ratings. Tough comeback assignment, but we're taking off 5lb which should help.

Kotmask joins Isssar d'Airy in this. Like his stable-mate, he enjoyed a good season winning three times, again with the inevitable sanction. We're hoping for a nice start from both of them.

Big Bard has been working away around Lingfield and Brighton and will probably find Newmarket something of a culture shock. He will do well to adapt to conditions and handle the opposition.

Nachtgeist ran well under Freddie when he returned to action with a 2nd at Huntingdon. With that spin behind them, they look sure to go close in this conditionals' affair.

Swatch shaped quite promisingly on his first run upon joining our stable. He looks weighted to run a competitive race and we could possibly find a little on that initial run. Hopeful each-way.

Silk And Steel makes her debut in a big field of largely untried juveniles. She should learn plenty and at least the ground will not be as demanding as it has been on most tracks lately.

Rage Of Thunder starts handicapping on what looks like a very tough initial mark of 68. He has shown glimpses of speed but he needs to put that to use over the full 6f.

Non-runner

Jolyjump was in good form in the spring, winning once and then finishing 2nd around here. His ability to handle the track will be useful but the rest of the main hopefuls have the benefit of a recent run.

Authentic Legacy had a couple of runs in bumpers but showed more evident promise on his sole run over hurdles when 2nd at Chepstow. Like the two other obvious principal contenders, he returns after a long summer break and it could just resolve into which of the trio is the most forward. Hopeful.

Icare Grandchamp put in a thoroughly professional performance to open his account in a similar race at Newton Abbot. This contest is a bit deeper but now Icare has got his head in front, we think he might be capable of a bit more. We reckon he can manage the very fair 3lb rise in his mark to complete the follow-up.

We're taking something of a chance running back Cresta Cat so soon after his 2nd successive win, this time at Nottingham. His penalty only puts him marginally above his new rating and it's fair to assume he faces a bigger raise for Nottingham. Hopefully, he will be a nice ride for our young claiming amateur in a race where none can have ridden more than three winners.

Give It To Me Oj has shown plenty of ability in his starts on the flat and starts hurdling in what looks a run-of-the-mill juvenile hurdle. He has shown promise in his schools and we're hopeful he can make a good beginning to his new career.

Pyrotechnic was a good winner of his 2nd of two starts in France and was also promising when 2nd over hurdles at Lingfield for us last year. His initial handicap mark of 107 could well be workable and as this is a conditionals' race, Caoilin can claim a handy 3lb. Possibilities.

Warning Sign and owner David Dunsdon have been working hard all year over varying distances, different  tracks and ground and have come up with a series of 2nd places. They both deserve to get that elusive win.

Everest made a very promising start in a mares' bumper at Southwell in early June. She will know more about it today but this is a very strong contest and we'll be delighted with a place.

Royal Way was 2nd to subsequent Triumph Hurdle winner Sir Gino at Kempton over Christmas last year and then won his last three for the season. His mark of 124 might easily be within reach in handicaps but leaves him a long way short of the Irish-trained favourite here. One to keep an eye out for.

Like yesterday's winner Miller Spirit, Alpha Crucis has come into his own in the deep ground this autumn. Miller Spirit made it three-in-a-row yesterday and Alpha Crucis can emulated his example in this wide-open handicap.

Botox Has mixed it with the best staying hurdlers last season, winning Grade 2 races at Wetherby first time out and Haydock. He always goes well fresh so while 152 is a tough mark to run off in this handicap, he will give it his best shot.

Jetronic won a race for Paul Nicholls last season but after disappointing next time was entered for the sales from where our owners bought him. Tough start from here but we're looking forward to it.

Miller Spirit has put together a terrific body of form this year and the way he has won his last two handicaps suggests he hasn't finished yet. Bumped 9lb for his win in the Apprentices' Derby at Epsom, still he is so progressive he may well make light of that.

Dannick ran a much better race 2nd time out at Goodwood, staying on strongly over 6f in heavy ground. There are a couple in here with apparently superior form but an extra half-furlong on this galloping track should be to his liking. Hopeful.

Cresta Cat came from out of nowhere to win at 66/1 a week ago after doing most things wrong through his race at Brighton.  We explained the performance afterwards by suggesting it was a weak race and that he handled the ground. Conditions will be similar but now he'll be the one getting shot at!

Havaila was an excellent 2nd first time for the stable at Goodwood in May but has struggled since. Although a maiden on the flat he has recorded three career 2nd places and has two wins to his name over hurdles. I expect we'll see him in that role sooner or later.

We set Peking Opera a daunting task in the Group 3 Cumberland Lodge at Ascot last time and he duly finished out the back. His mark coming here was always too high after his Irish exploits and even down to 95, it won't be easy. Looking for some encouragement for the future.

It's been a year of patchy form from Bated Breeze who sits 10lb clear at the bottom of this handicap. It would need a big improvement to get him over the line in front, but he does have a nice draw.

Pennsylvanie was beaten miles around here first time back from a year off. She gets first-time cheek-pieces and hopefully, they might bring out some improvement.

Junkanoo missed his race at Plumpton the other day when the ground became very testing and if it stays dry,  that could well have been a wise move. He meets some in-form horses here but is sometimes able to pull it out of the fire.

Non-runner

With Call Off The Dogs an absentee, Celtic Ned has a much more compelling chance. He ran a promising 2nd at Lingfield last season, 2nd time for us, but never matched it afterwards. The summer break might well have had a beneficial effect.

Love You Back has looked slow in his two runs so far. This straight 10f on soft ground is probably as tough as it can get for a juvenile and we hope he will be staying on a bit better than hitherto this time.

Spirit Of Breeze was off for more than a year until late summer and his three runs have been much of a muchness, while not beaten far in any of them. We're trying first-time cheek-pieces to try to spark him back into life.

Autumn's Breeze has run four times and she has yet to finish better than 7th and 15 lengths behind the winner in any of them. Where they got the 57 rating from we'd love to know.

Platinum Prince had us looking on in disbelief eight days ago when winning at 66/1 at Goodwood. He gets a 4lb penalty for that and in a much lower-grade race will have similar heavy going. He got through it fine at Goodwood - maybe he will again?

The Whipmaster ran well at Windsor two runs back but didn't fare anything like as well on AW last time. At his best he would be a factor but he hasn't found it easy of late.

Junkanoo has had a flat handicap and a run around here since his summer break and hasn't quite got back into his stride. He should progress from those runs though and looks fairly handicapped.

Icare Grandchamp was a determined winner of a 0-105 handicap chase at Newton Abbot last time and gets 3lb for that. He sticks out at the bottom of the weights but the rise in class to a 0-130 won't be easy. Optimistic he might make it though.

Kalif d'Airy had been off for more than seven months before his comeback run at Fontwell this month. He trailed the field throughout that day, but it should have brought him on and a better performance is expected.

Saligo Bay joins Kalif d'Airy in this. He has been running on the flat and managed a good 2nd off 77 in the summer. His jumps mark of 100 could be attractive in comparison and we're hopeful of a good showing on his return to hurdling.

Luna Effect has yet to win a race and that was probably a factor in his starting as a 33/1 shot first time over hurdles at Fontwell recently. That run suggested promise and we hope he can build on that and go close here.

French Martini has been running okay in recent runs around Brighton. We've given him a wind-op and that might help him turn places into a win. Hope so anyway.

Authorized Art was a smart performer with Willie Mullins and joins us at the advanced age of nine. He shows he is talented - probably comfortably better over fences - every morning, but he may need this Listed hurdles run to get him going again after an 81-day break.

Diplomatic Ash was placed in a couple of novice hurdles around Plumpton in January, but struggled when upped in class at Sandown for his last two outings. The break, hopefully, will have restored some confidence but this looks a demanding enough task on comeback.

Justice Roll won the last of his four races in France, over 1m5f at Chateaubriant. The French gave him a rating equivalent to 74, which is below that of one of today's other newcomers and there are a couple of others to worry about, including a previous winner. Hopeful - if the jumping holds up.

Novus picked up another nice prize at Goodwood in the mud two runs back but this is a race of far higher quality. If she could nick a minor prize here we would be more than delighted.

Small Fry went close to completing the hat-trick last time, but was just edged out late on. He remains on a winnable mark. Hopeful.

Non-runner - meeting abandoned

Aggagio looked decidedly ring-rusty returning on the flat at Goodwood last month. He likes soft ground and reverting to hurdles, might still need a run or two more to get back to full efficiency.

Voodoo Ray had a hat-trick here in the spring and ran well on the track two runs back. He's always likely to  pop up and we wouldn't be surprised if he did today.

Cresta Cat hasn't beaten a rival in two starts from here. A 2nd place at Kempton at the start of the year shows there is something in there, but he has kept it to himself since joining us.

Ocean Odyssey ran a tiny bit better last time at Kempton but was still no nearer to getting involved in a finish. Small steps would be encouraging.

Non-runner

We picked up the experienced and tough 4yo Bohemian Breeze at the Tatts September sale. Bohemian Breeze has been running well this year, generally in the money and was a regular winner for the Johnston team in the past. He has a wide draw and that might suggest caution first time out.

Swatch is a new arrival for us with plenty of form in the book for previous connections. He may just need this after four months off the track but we're looking forward to seeing him run.

Fierce drops into a seller after a handicap win two runs back at Lingfield. Unfortunately, he and the rest look to have it all to do with the 89-rated favourite on these terms.

Thundering Breeze did everything wrong first time in a handicap but there were small signs of better to come. Let's hope he starts to go the right way tonight.

Bated Breeze has been frustrating and hasn't looked like breaking his maiden. The last run at Goodwood offered a little more encouragement and if he can race less freely early, he might even run into the money.

Another double hand. Magic Memories tops the weights and hasn't been far behind, even though unlaced, in two recent runs over the CD. Tough and genuine and can go close.

Our other runner Platinum Prince is at the other extreme of the handicap, indeed he has to run from 6lb out of the weights. That will be tough to overcome.

Alpha Crucis loves these conditions and although up 9lb for a six-length win here last time, it's hard to overlook him. Big chance of the follow-up.

Nelson Gate showed a fair bit more than Love Your Back on debut. He was 4th of 6 over 1m2f in the heavy on this track and that experience will be very important. Should run nicely.

Love You Back is one of two for us in this. He was miles behind on debut at Sandown but needs to do much more.

Dannick was a massive price on debut at Sandown but while only 6th, he was repeatedly denied a run in the closing stages. He will run well and looks overpriced.

Royaume Uni has been off for a long time. We'll be pleased to see him come home safe and sound.

Mark Of Gold was an impressive winner over the CD back in May of last year. He too had a warm-up for this in the jump jockeys' Derby and has a fair bit to find with Poncho. This is much more his trip and conditions though.

Poncho is also on the way back. His 5th in the jump jockeys' Derby at Epsom was creditable and the extra distance should help him. Can run well.

We run four in this handicap for jump jockeys. Havaila will be straighter than for his recent comeback. He was a good 2nd back in May in a 2m handicap here on testing ground and should be a contender.

Nassalam had two big wins around here last year, notably by miles in the Welsh National. He's almost a stone higher and the handicapper seems not to have taken much notice of his far less distinguished runs in the Gold Cup and Grand National. We hope he runs well.

Editeur Du Gite is making an earlier start than usual. He needed his first two runs to get into top gear last year and this is a tough enough return to action.

Yellow Star is the more experienced of our pair and he signed off with an excellent 4th in the novice championship final at Sandown, outrunning his odds. Looks the more interesting of our pair.

Through The Ages looked good in his early juvenile races, but found the next stage more difficult. He may need to find his feet in handicaps before we can expect too much.

Too Soon won nicely at Epsom, continuing his steady improvement. We're hoping he can take this next big step into Group 3 class and show he stays this stiff 10f trip.

The ground finally came right for Novus at Goodwood last time when she picked up a Listed prize to add to this Group 3 she won last year. Hopeful of a repeat with the ground on the easy side.

Give It To Me Oj has been running well in smaller-field handicaps, but at a much lower level than he meets today. Hoping for a place at long odds but it will need an improved performance for that to happen.

Red Cloud has been a model of consistency and promises to continue to progress. A 6lb rise for his latest five-length success hardly looks excessive.

Rory Rocket made a most promising start when 2nd of 4 but outrunning his odds at Brighton. We think he has improved in the interim and hope he can make the step up into the winner's circle.

One Step Beyond has been racing exclusively on turf over the past year and his lack of success has brought a big drop in his mark. He returns to AW where he has a better strike-rate, seven from 27, so he could get back to somewhere near his best. Each-way chance.

Our Papa Smurf won on the flat in the summer but his next run was poor. Returning after three months he tried hurdling which didn't prove an instant success. It's hard to know what to expect first time back on the flat since his break.

Kotari returned with a fine 4th to Not So Sleepy in a valuable handicap at Newbury last month. This represents a fair drop in grade and an obvious chance.

Abingworth improved steadily once sent chasing last season. He was still going well when unseating at a crucial stage on his final start at Plumpton, but otherwise had two wins and three 2nd places to show for his efforts over fences. Should slot nicely into this handicap against more experienced rivals.

Spirit Of Breeze has come back from a 13-month absence with a couple of okay runs around Sandown. A little improvement would put him into the picture.

Nachtgeist earned a 92 flat rating with his previous stable and if that is correct he would have a great chance here off 100 over hurdles. He was highly tried in his two summer runs for us,at Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood and this should be a fair bit easier.

Peking Opera made a winning hurdles debut in February but fell next time and has had two runs since, both on the level. He's been off for six months and while he had smart form in Ireland before joining us, this will probably be tough for him.

We tested Kalif d'Airy quite hard with a Cheltenham bumper and novice hurdles at Newbury and Haydock, where he was placed the last twice. He may be on a generous mark if the overnight betting is to be believed, but we'll find out later today whether he is.

Pennsylvanie is new to us but she did run one good race amid some poor performances when 2nd over slightly further on this track a year ago. Hard to be dogmatic about her chances.

Once very headstrong, Jupiter Du Gite is more amenable these days. He is still prone to putting in a bad run, but also the reverse when as at Uttoxeter, he made all.  The small field might be in his favour, but we're never quite sure what to expect from him on this season's return.

This juvenile hurdle looks a straight match between the penalised favourite and Give It To Me Oj. Rated 78, he's 6lb superior to Rogue King on the level, but receives 7lb from his rival. Hopeful on debut.

Officer Of State won over 1m7f on soft ground last time out for Andre Fabre. He had three runs over hurdles after joining us and comparing the hurdles mark, he might have it all to do here. The ground shouldn't be a problem though.

Luna Effect has ordinary enough form on the level, being rated only 57 after some modest runs since joining us. We'll be delighted with a clean run round first time over jumps.

Warning Sign has been giving owner-rider David Dunsdon some great sport this summer. He could hardly be more versatile, 2nd three times going 1m, then 1m2f and lastly, 1m4f when 2nd in the Amateurs' Derby over the full Classic course. The one-mile run suggests he'll have enough speed for this 7f on testing ground and it's another place chance at least for David.

Two in this and the overnight market has them close together at the top of the betting. Clear Justice came out second best after a barging match at Brighton which could have gone either way. He has yet to show similar form on AW.

Semser joins Clear Justice in this. His last win came here in May of 2023 off 68. A lot of water has gone under the bridge since then, but he looks appealingly placed off just 53 tonight.

Small Fry didn't take long to get into his work since joining from Ireland and has won three out of his last four. His latest win at Chester from Tailorman has since been boosted by the runner-up and we hope Small Fry can keep the run going.

Cephalus clocked up a rapid AW four-timer on three different tracks in February/March. He was unplaced at Goodwood in early June and has had a break since. He might just benefit from the outing.

Ocean Odyssey has run three shockers since coming over from Ireland. That 64 rating looks far too high on everything we've seen of him over here.

Our runners today meet in this handicap. Neither has been in the greatest of form, Cresta Cat finishing last of 13 on stable debut here over 7f two weeks ago. The much longer trip should help bring a better outcome for him.

Asense has shown his best form at Bath, winning here in September of last year, then following up in this race. He hasn't been in the greatest of form in 2024 but is down in the handicap - 4lb lower than when winning last year. Obvious chance.

Miller Spirit won last time out over the CD and is raised only 3lb for that. His fitness isn't in question and while it might be close between our pair, he may just have the edge.

Two in this. Mark Of Gold was a smooth winner the last time he raced on the flat in the spring of last year. He has since won over hurdles and there is no doubt he will handle the ground. He's coming back from a break and if he's ready he will be a contender.

Too Soon, a son of Too Dart Hot, improved from 1st run to 2nd when a close 3rd at Ascot. There doesn't seem too much between the principals on form and he is one of them. Hopeful.

Marayel eventually got that initial win early in August but then was well beaten only three days later. We've given him a while to get over those exertions and hope he might resume on that upward trend.

Bishop's Glory was a winner from his previous stable late last year, but hasn't really looked like adding to it in his time here. He wasn't disgraced on his last two though and his young rider has been in decent form. Hopeful of better.

Stormingin does a great job helping to educate our younger riders and he also likes Chelmsford. This is the ideal spot therefore to hope for a run in the money from him. Place chances.

The Whipmaster has been steadily returning to form since a summer wind-op, with 3rd places on AW and turf, each time being beaten only one length. He knows how to win and this could be his chance.

If Magic Memories would struggle to get in Saturday's Cambridgeshire, Alpha Crucis would need twice as many to be withdrawn. He likes soft ground and this easier company should be at his mercy. Big chance.

Non-runner

Novus has been waiting all year for her favoured ground since a good run on this course first time out in early May. and it would be typical if the heavens opened and caused Goodwood's abandonment. Otherwise, with a first-time tongue-tie, she's the one to fear.

Magic Memories won on soft ground at Yarmouth in June and wasn't far behind though in 6th last time on this track in August. He was confirmed for the Cambridgeshire on Saturday but needs seven to come out to get a run. Unlikely and as he will not mind conditions and has a light weight, we have to be hopeful here.

Nelson Gate was an 80k buy from Tattersalls Book 2. The son of Australia makes his debut in what will undoubtedly be one of the sternest stamina tests - ten furlongs in heavy ground - for any juvenile this year, let alone one making his debut. We'll be watching him closely!

Sanitiser had three more flat runs over the summer from his still very high mark. In contrast, his jumps rating is very workable and it just needs things to click for him hopefully, to begin a winning sequence.

Call Off The Dogs looks interesting. Before his summer break, he won twice including over the CD before winding up with a 2nd  place. Hopeful he can regain the winning thread on this return.

Two in this. Aviles will be at the longer price of the pair. He is still a maiden having kicked off for us with a string of 2nd places. He put in another in a weak race at Fakenham before signing off with a disappointing run at Plumpton. He needs to do better.

Cloud Dancer had a couple of fairly distant 2nd places after getting a handicap mark last season but ended up on a tame note on his final start at Uttoxeter. He probably had had enough for the season at that stage, and now off a reduced rating, we're hoping for him to turn over a new leaf.

Junkanoo had a respectable first season over jumps last winter. He has had a flat-race warm-up around Sandown and hopefully, that will have readied him for the return to this game. Chances at his best.

Our Papa Smurf had a win at Goodwood in June, a run that stands out among some lesser efforts. His rating of 57 is a stone lower than a couple of these, so we hope he has adjusted well enough to jumping to make up the difference.

Small Fry has been getting his act together after a slowish start since coming from Ireland. He has won two of his last three and we would be delighted if he could provide a winner for Franny Norton on his final day as a jockey on the track where he has been the undoubted "King" for many years.

Kotari compiled an impressive spring hat-trick on the flat but slipped a little on his last run, since when he has had a break. It's a strong field and he may just need the outing.

Semser continues to go through the motions. If he decided to turn over a new leaf, his rating of 53 would look a gift compared with the 69 a year ago. But will he listen to us? No!

Stormingin has plenty of form around Chelmsford and continues to belie his age. A small each-way chance for old time's sake!

Two run for us in this Fegentri amateurs' race. David Dundson has the obvious form pick of the pair in Platinum Prince and David can log up plenty of points in the competition.

Autumn's Breeze has been slow to come to hand. She switches to turf and that hopefully might encourage a better showing.

Give  It To Me Oj has been getting nearer but his opening mark didn't make it easy for him. Maybe he's now where he needs to be to pick up the first win.

Love You Back is a debutant by Galiway. He will learn plenty from this.

Clear Justice has run his last four races at Brighton. The first twice he won, but he's been last of six runners in each of the other two. The wins came with Hollie Doyle on board, the first over the CD, and they are reunited for the first time since. Hopeful.

Cresta Cat had form for his original stable but just two poor efforts early in the year for his next yard. This is his debut for us and we're dropping him in trip. Hope he's quick enough.

Two runners in this. Havaila joined in the spring and ran a blinder first time out when 2nd to the very useful and versatile Punctuation over two miles at Goodwood. We gave him one more run back there when he wasn't as competitive. He's back now after his break, but 1m3f around here might be a bit sharp.

The Whipmaster ran a great return race when 3rd after a wind-op and three months off when 3rd at Lingfield. That winner followed up by almost ten lengths at Leicester so the form looks good. Hopeful.

Asense won twice over this course last autumn. He shaped well when 3rd at Brighton two weeks ago and we're taking a handy 7lb off. Dangerous off this mark.

David Dunsdon has been getting closer with his own horse French Martini, finishing 3rd then 2nd in his last two starts.  As this amateurs' handicap is restricted to horses that have not won in 2024, French Martini comes into it with some of the best credentials. Hopefully to win it!

Junkanoo has been hurdling with some success since his last flat run in October last year. His near five months off might mean he needs a little tightening but he has the ability to figure.

Spirit Of Breeze won at Leicester in July last year and didn't reappear until last month. He ran better than the finishing position might suggest and we are expecting improvement today.

We took Dannick out of a race last week owing to soft ground. He has a speedy pedigree and a good draw. Interesting, and he definitely takes his chance.

Small Fry was a narrow winner and then comfortably beaten 2nd to the same William Knight horse on his last two runs. They were both on AW but the switch back to turf won't be a problem and he's the in-form horse and the one to beat in this.

Two in this jump jockeys' Derby. Miller Spirit had a couple of wins around Goodwood in June and has held on to his form since. Solid chance if he can handle the big weight.

Our other runner Poncho makes his flat-race handicap debut. He's a hurdles winner so will be used to carrying big weights. Each-way option.

After a sluggish season, Daphne May was a far more encouraging 2nd at Chelmsford last time. A winner here off 65 in August last year, she runs off 50 today. Clear chance if Chelmsford wasn't an illusion.

Luna Effect,  a son of Sea The Stars, had plenty of placed form for his previous connections. He had a nice break after we bought him in February but he hasn't quite matched his earlier form with two runs for us this summer. Looking for improvement if he is to figure here.

Ocean Odyssey had had a couple of runs since coming over from Ireland. He hasn't shown us much yet and needs to find something more like his promising debut run over there to justify what looks a tough mark.

Non-runner

Cloudy Breeze has had just one disappointing run this year, finishing a long way behind at Bath in May. He remains a maiden and we'd need to see something more positive from him before expecting him to get that elusive first win.

Big Bard is a versatile type and he seems not to mind running on turf or AW. He has run well on each surface the last twice, both at Lingfield, and wasn't beaten far either time. This should be the day.

Platinum Prince ran well when 2nd in an amateurs' race at Goodwood following three months off the track. If he follows through, then he must have a decent chance off bottom weight here.

We run two in this. After a couple of lacklustre efforts, Harry will be hoping Fascinating Lips can get back to his best form. He's top weight, so the best horse in the race so let's hope he shows it.

Our other runner Big Jimbo has been struggling all year and he's hard to fancy after finishing out with the washing at Bath.

Voodoo Ray likes Brighton and looked to be coming back to form when a close 3rd there last time. Bottom weight and a favourite track look a winning combination.

Saligo Bay has seen an AW track only once in his 33 career starts when last of 12 here last year. It's fair to say he's unexposed on the surface, but equally it's hard to offer too much confidence.

Sanitiser ran a better race at Epsom last time in the amateurs' Derby. He's still not looking competitive in terms of a prospective flat-race winner, but the trend is at last going in the right direction.

Fierce came back to form last time with a strong performance at Lingfield. Tom has opted to come here where the 5lb rise in his mark may not prevent the follow-up win.

Non-runner

Too Soon made a promising start when 5th at Goodwood, making late headway. By Too Darn Hot, he's an expensive horse for the yard and hopefully, can live up to it with a run in the money.

One Step Beyond likes this straight course where he was a winner last year off 2lb higher. If he can get across to the rail from stall 10 he could be very dangerous, but you never know which side is going to be preferable here until they race. Hopeful at a nice price.

Meeting abandoned

Red Cloud has been consistent, albeit at a lowly level. He came back well last time on this course after a break and ought to go close once more.

Aggagio is extremely consistent under both codes and many of his best flat performances have been on this track. His last flat run was in this race 12 months ago when he was a close 3rd, but he had several runs through that summer to hone his fitness. We still expect a solid run first time back.

Voodoo Ray won twice here in the spring and followed up to complete the hat-trick at Bath. Disappointing since, he is getting close to the latest winning mark again. Possibilities.

Asense ran okay at Kempton but then ran a shocker on fast ground at Bath. He had won twice on that track last year, on both good to firm and soft so there shouldn't have been a problem last time. On something of a retrieval mission here.

Letsbeatsepsis made a promising start at Ascot staying on well for 3rd. He was 3rd again next time but with excuses as he was short of room when it mattered. Slightly down in class again, he could get a deserved first win.

Clear Justice won twice here before pulling away his chance last time. If he can be kept in hand today he should go well again, although he remains 7lb higher than for the two victories.

Oj Lifestyle won over the course at the beginning of last month - his first success since that bitter-sweet 125/1 victory at Newbury more than two years before which caused him to work under a very high initial rating. A 5lb rise from 65 shouldn't stop the follow-up.

Breeze-up buy Rory Rocket is the only newcomer in the field. The other three have each shown something and he will probably need to run to mid-70s to win.

French Martini showed improved form when 3rd on this course last time out, marking the initial ride on the 4yo by vastly-experienced owner-rider David Dunsdon. They can gel together today to gain that elusive first win.

Bishop's Glory has been struggling this season. He dropped into Classified stakes last time and could be competitive here tonight.

Lynwood Lad made a promising start to his career here, just behind the placed horses over 6f at Chelmsford. The extra furlong here should help him.

The Whipmaster hasn't shown too much this year, but we hope that his wind-op will bring him back to full efficiency. He's been a regular winner in the past and the surgery hopefully might bring him close to that.

Autumn's Breeze has been confined to running around Kempton so far, admittedly without showing us much. A run on turf could give us a different slant on her capabilities.

Non-runner

One Step Beyond has been a prolific winner over the years. He goes well for an inexperienced rider and takes quite a drop in class here. Big chance.

Inigo won at Uttoxeter last month but is 7lb higher. Freddie Mitchell should fit nicely as a conditional jockey - he did well as an amateur previously. Hopeful.

It's great that Ryan is here, so available to ride Spirit Of Breeze. The 4yo has been off the track for 401 days and has an awful draw, so will do extra well to make a winning return. 

When Daphne May signed off last September, she was rated 67. Since returning she has dropped below 50 and can run at Classified level. Her one positive effort among a host of disappointments was a close 3rd the only time she stepped out of handicaps and this could be her day to add to the eight career wins she already has in her locker.

Big Bard has been running well this summer, finishing first then second around here. We're claiming 7lb and Joe looks exellent value for the claim. Good shout.

Owner-rider David Dunsdon knows Warning Sign well and would love to win this Amateurs' Derby close to his home base. He's better off with Cervetto for a recent defeat at Sandown and must go there with a great chance.

We run two in the Amateurs' Derby. Sanitiser remains high in the handicap on the flat and his jumps form off a very lenient mark doesn't suggest he's as good a horse as he was.

Letsbeatsepsis ran very promisingly when 3rd on debut at Ascot. He didn't pull out the expected improvement at Brighton, but not every horse handles that track the first time around it. Epsom has its challenges too, but he has the ability to get in the money.

Too Soon has been taken out as on second thoughts we were worried the ground might have been too soft!

The ground looked very soft at Goodwood yesterday. It doesn't suit every horse but Magic Memories should be in his element. He's been performing well and we are looking forward to running him here today.

Red Cloud won at Chepstow and looked sure to follow up at Lingfield but was nabbed late on. He's had seven weeks off but resumes with a decent chance.

With luck, the wait for suitable ground (and the non-stop rain dance) may be over. Novus was just edged out in Listed company here in May and has since taken on Group 2 rivals on unsuitable ground. Group 3 should be fine to show her ability - as long as we get her conditions.

Sultan Of Oj improved on his debut when considerably nearer than before on this track last month. He's probably one for nurseries.

Crescent Lake is another that seems to save his best for Goodwood and his recent 3rd at Sandown hinted at an imminent breakthrough. Hopeful, but it is competitive.

Miller Spirit won twice on this track in June and has run well in both his races since. Only 3lb higher than for the wins, he'll be dangerous from the foot of the handicap and Joe's 5lb claim couild be decisive.

Course winner Alpha Crucis has been waiting for give in the ground and it looks as though the weather might have turned in his favour. Fresh after a light season, he's been ready for a while and we're hopeful he will be straight enough in condition to come to the front.

Platinum Prince has won his share of races over the years and we were encouraged by his close 2nd at Chelmsford in April. He disappointed the next time, though, so he's had a long break and hopefully will be ready to run his race in this amateurs' contest.

Bated Breeze's best run to date was when 2nd over today's trip at Kempton. He hasn't cut much ice since, but now 6lb lower and with first-time cheek-pieces applied, we're hopeful of a run in the money.

Non-runner

Bishop's Glory eases into Classified company after starting from a few pounds higher on joining us. This should be more his scene.

A winner off 73 last year, Fierce is down to 66 and in lower grade than before. We're looking for a revival, but also run Voodoo Ray who has been going in the other direction. Bit of a puzzle.

Voodoo Ray went through the grades with a hat-trick on turf before struggling a little the last twice off higher marks. Not out of it if he can recapture his spring form.

Ocean Odyssey ran the better of two races 1st time out for previous connections in Ireland last year. His debut for us came after 11 months off and he can be forgiven for being a little ring-rusty. The initial mark looks demanding enough.

Non-runner

Give It To Me Oj ran a very promising race first time in a handicap when a close 4th off an initial mark of 80 at Goodwood. Dropped 1lb for that, we have to be hopeful that the improvement he showed that day can be maintained. Big chance.

Semser has yet to make the frame in seven starts this year. His mark has dropped to a very tempting 55 as a result and that could signal a return to last year's better form.

Fascinating Lips was narrowly beaten at Windsor in a busy spring/early summer campaign. He's had a short break and comes back fresh and well. He can go close in a wide-open handicap.

We were disappointed when Small Fry had to miss an obvious winning opportunity recently but he's fine again now and this looks just as appetising. His last-time win could be the beginning of a little sequence.

Luna Effect had some good, consistently placed form for Roger Varian over the winter before we acquired him at the February sale. He raced once for us at Brighton last month when he faded after making the running. On his best form, he would have a chance.

Autumn's Breeze had her three qualifying runs all around here at either this trip or a furlong more. She's been a massive price each time and well beaten so it looks as though the handicapper has just thrown her out a rating. We'll find out if he's right, but we find it hard to see how he arrived at 62. He's often right though.

Marayel progressed into a good win on Monday after some improved performances. This Classified company, even with a penalty looks the right grade.

Letsbeatsepsis made a very promising start when a massive price on debut at Ascot, finishing nicely into 3rd. We have to be hopeful that he can follow it up with a first win.

Rage Of Thunder ran the better of two races to date on debut around here. He needs to improve on that and also erase the memory of a less promising effort last time.

Atwixaday has achieved just a single 3rd place in his 12-race career. This is a poor Classified stakes but still, he needs to find a lot more to be a contender.

Oj Lifestyle continues to edge lower in the handicap. This looks the sort of opportunity when he can finally add a 2nd win to his 125/1 success 2nd time out just four days short of two years ago.

Beau French was off the track for more than three years before making two runs from here. His 2nd effort was better and he could well progress again to be a decent each-way candidate tonight.

Clear Justice has won his last two on this track at 10f and then a mile. He reverts to the longer trip today and although his mark has gone up accordingly, he is the one to beat in this.

We saw what Lynwood Lad could do when he won twice from this sort of mark late last year for his previous stable. The form has not been there this year and he now makes his debut for us. It would not be a shock if he went close.

Semser has shown his best recent form around here and has slipped down the handicap since his latest effort at Chelmsford. He might be the type to do well in this lady Fegentri race.

Ocean Odyssey had a couple of runs in Ireland without making too many waves If will be interesting to see where he stands against UK novices.

Big Bard won well on AW here last time. He is a better horse on turf so while the 9lb higher mark looks tough, he should still be a big contender here.

Marayel had very modest form on his few runs from here, but there has been a degree of improvement on more recent appearances. Hardly a good thing, but he must have a chance in an ordinary contest.

Small Fry took a couple of runs to find his feet after joining from Ireland but won seemingly with a little to spare over 1m5f here last time. He's up 5lb for that but there's no reason why he shouldn't follow up.

Non-runner

Non-runner

Sanitiser ran on this track on the first start for the team last October but has been confined to hurdles since. His flat mark is very high, especially when ranked alongside his hurdling form which is off almost the same figure. Hoping he can show something of his best.

Too Soon has a nice pedigree and we go to Goodwood with more optimism than the 33/1 overnight odds might suggest. Hoping for a promising start from this breeze-up buy, sired by the brilliant Too Darn Hot.

Asense won a couple of races around here last year and has dropped well below the 2nd of them. It is easy to see that a run in the money would be very possible.

Give It To Me Oj has not been given a bargain with his 80 rating. Lightly-raced he'll have a good crack at this first handicap and we hope he can go close.

Ex-German Nachtgeist came to us on a testing handicap mark. He is a stayer and started with us in the Queen Alexandra. It might take a little while to get him down to a winning weight, but there is plenty of nice form before he joined us.

Non-runner - meeting abandoned

Non-runner

After a year when she struggled badly, Daphne May last time gave notice that she has started to find her true self. We are stretching her from the 10f of her close 3rd on AW  last time to 1m4f on turf. She could maintain the improvement in which case she's a value each-way price.

Big Bard struck last time with a bit to spare over this course, but whether it was 9lb to spare is open to debate. We'll only find out if we or the handicapper has the numbers right.

Red Cloud won well at Chepstpw but seemed to run out of puff last time on this track. Maybe ridden with a little more restraint he can get back to winning ways.

Letsbeatsepsis is a homebred by Expert Eye. He'll be a big price but sometimes this sort of race allows newcomers to have an enjoyable debut. Let's hope it happens for him.

Crescent Lake is another yet to match last year's winning form but a couple of 3rd places have meant the handicapper won't let go. Track and trip are fine, but is his mark?

Silastar had a six-month break before returning to action in March and hasn't been in particularly good form. His mark has slipped but not extravagantly so, and he needs to find something from within to get back to his best.

Miller Spirit won two races at Goodwood within a week in June. He could not quite manage the hat-trick on this course last time but it wasn't the smoothest run. Hopefully, he can get back to winning form if everything works to his advantage.

Warning Sign ran well in 2nd for owner-rider David Dunsdon at Sandown, making the running but tiring up the hill. This flat track may help him run all the way to the line. Hopeful.

Non-runner

Bishop's Glory has yet to beat a horse in two runs since coming to the stable. He needs to show much more to get involved here.

Small Fry has had two runs from here since coming from Ireland and neither was straightforward for one reason or another. If he could run to more like his Irish form he would go close.

Marayel ran by far his best race for us last time when 4th would have been much better with anything like a clear run. In better form than our other runner Daphne May in this.

Daphne May has been kept busy in the hope that she can run back into form, but despite regular steps down the handicap, the revival has yet to begin. This field off 49 would have been a gift for her a year ago, so let's hope she's encouraged to give it a better go this time.

Duke Of Vienna was a running-on 3rd in a similar race, but over 2f shorter here last time. The normal progression from that over 1m4f should be another run at least in the money and maybe better?

Silastar won in May last year on soft ground at Sandown. His form has been poor since, apart from one third place two runs back on AW. He needs to wake his ideas up but he has a nice mark.

Bated Breeze ran very well until the closing stages at Goodwood last time, fading from the lead in the last half-furlong. The first-time visor could help his concentration and make him a big threat to all.

Voodoo Ray competed a quick Brighton hat-trick in May but couldn't run anywhere near that on his last visit there early last month. A six-week break may have freshened him up and Epsom ought to suit him. Hopeful at a price.

Running The Game made a good start to his UK career with a smooth win at Kempton, but hasn't gone on from there. Maybe Jo's skills in a lady amateurs' race will encourage a better performance.

Oj Lifestyle continues his slide down the handicap. He weakened late on when 3rd on a recent run over CD but this isn't the most competitive of handicaps. Hoping for better from him.

INon-runner

Ladt Twilight has been making hard work of things and after five runs she's virtually on the minimum mark. She needs to start making something happen from here.

Thundering Breeze easily outran expectations and 33/1 starting price when a staying-on 3rd at Newmarket. She might have been leniently assessed on 62 and hopefully, she can go very close.

Big Jimbo was running okay in the autumn but has been struggling to regain that level of late. At his best, he would have a serious claim.

Inigo has fallen the last twice, although he would probably have been 2nd at Southwell bar that mistake. Obviously, he needs to get his jumping right in which case he would have a chance in this modest contest.

Although the race Rage Of Thunder started in was a Class 4, as a GBB race at Sandown it attracted some decent prospects. His close-up 7th was very encouraging and he can progress from that, hopefully with a run in the money.

Asense was running well on turf in the latter part of 2023 but has yet to get anywhere near that level this year. Hard to be too enthusiastic running on AW.

Expectations have been modest so far for Autumn's Breeze and her two runs to date have been in line with them. Her first handicap mark will depend a lot on what she shows tonight.

Non-runner - meeting abandoned

Sultan Of Oj started slowly on his Goodwood debut and then weakened in the closing stages. He'll know more about it this evening.

Saligo Bay ran his best of the year when 2nd last time out at Sandown. That was his first try over today's distance of 1m6f and as he was staying on nicely there, he could easily run into the money in this competitive handicap.

Miller Spirit did well to win his last two races at Goodwood. He won handily each time and he seems very fairly weighted, up just 4lb for both, the first an apprentices' race. The hat-trick beckons.

Two of One Step Beyond's best runs have been on this CD partnered by 7lb claimer Anna Gibson. He won here last summer and ran a very good 3rd in the spring. He's a tough individual and we'll be very hopeful of getting in the frame again.

Fierce won a 5f race on soft ground last season. Conditions at Epsom will be less severe this evening and although Fierce has yet to match that form in two runs this year, he should start to improve as the summer wears on.

Marayel showed his first semblance of promise when 4th yesterday at Lingfield. If he turns out again he could pinch a place this time.

Give It To Me Oj ran better than his price suggested he might behind another surprise package Prague at Sandown. That winner ran okay in a Listed race back there last week and Give It To Me Oj is entitled to improve from the run. Place chances.

Beau French returned from more than a three-year absence and in the circumstances did well in a close 5th to our hot favourite Miller Spirit at Goodwood. If he doesn't bounce, this looks within his scope and the 5lb off will help.

Rage Of Thunder ran a very promising first race at Sandown. He may have finished 7th (of 12) but less than four lengths behind the well-regarded winner and will have learnt plenty from that. Big chance.

Capricorn Prince has a great record around Lingfield but last time he bled from the nose, explaining the reason he trailed the field home a distant last. We've been working on that and hopefully, he should be okay, but the thought of what might happen again is always there.

Fascinating Lips has run well on fast ground twice in his last three races but he does have decent form on soft going earlier in his career on his card. He's tough and always likely to run well. Hopeful.

Clear Justice belied his status as the unconsidered 2nd string to Small Fry here two weeks ago. Only raised 2lb to 48 he should not be far away in this Classified stakes, especially if he repeats that effort.

Luna Effect may be a maiden but he ran to a fair level for Roger Varian and now has his first run for us since we bought him, at the February sale. He meets three winners but we wouldn't be shocked if he ran a good race.

Big Bard is not the most consistent, but his last run over 7f can probably be forgiven as he lost ground through going wide and is anyway best at shorter. Small each-way chance.

Two in this. Bishop's Glory didn't run too badly although last of 4 first time at Brighton. He was a winner for previous connections and normal improvement on that debut where he was beaten only four lengths should put him in the argument.

Eight runs this year for Daphne May and she still is struggling compared with her 2023 form. Hard to whip up too much enthusiasm.

Marayel continues to disappoint, having shown us very little in three runs. The one hope is that he appreciates his dropping mark.

Small Fry was a short-priced favourite on stable debut two weeks ago but ran a stinker in last behind our other runner Clear Justice. His Irish form was okay and we will be looking for something nearer that level today.

Duke Of Vienna has yet to show much, either for his previous stable or in two runs for us. We'll persevere and hope he develops better as he gets more races under his belt.

Poncho drops back from 1m6f to 1m2f for his 3rd run the flat. Better than a 110 hurdler, it will be interesting to see where the handicapper puts him if as we hope, he gets in the money today.

Novus took her chance on unsuitable ground at Royal Ascot and was far from disgraced, running over 1m. If Haydock gets considerable amounts of rain she will come right into the argument. A winner over 1m2f, she tries 1m4f for the first time here. Hope she stays.

Magic Memories has been improving this year and won well last time at Yarmouth. Bottom-weight, he is up 3lb for the last win which gives him a chance in a very tough handicap.

Owner David Dunsdon gets a first chance to ride Warning Sign this season. He is always to be feared in these amateur riders' races on the flat and they can go close here. 

Non-runner

Autumn's Breeze was beaten a long way on her debut around here last month. She should progress for the experience but looks to have a very tough task against fillies that have already shown decent form.

Our Papa Smurf came good last time at Goodwood and the 4lb raise in his mark to 57 makes him the highest-rated horse in this 0-55 contest. A 3yo, he gets weight from all his opponents bar one because of the generous WFA scale against his elders. Hoping for a follow-up.

Crescent Lake ran a couple of good races when 3rd at Ascot and then Goodwood in May but a return to the Sussex course was less impressive. He stays well so I think we'll need a good gallop over this 1m4f for him to figure. He'll be coming home strongly though.

Oj Lifestyle is a good example of a horse whose career has been blighted by over-achievement early in his career. The second time out as a 2yo at Newbury he was a 125/1 shot but won. His initial mark of 90 was unsustainable and despite a few glimpses of form, including one 2nd and one 3rd, it's been a case of a downward spiral since. The last few runs haven't given us much to be cheerful about either, but he's down once more in class so it's fingers crossed.

Red Cloud looked like a winner guaranteed to happen after his eye-opening effort two runs back at Brighton and in some ways, he made hard work of winning last time at Bath. The handicapper wasn't impressed, leaving his mark unchanged on 47, but this is a 0-50 Classified, so in effect, he's 3lb higher. Looks a nice opportunity just the same

Asense won three in a row on turf last August/September but has not come back in anything like the same form this year, twice on AW before returning to grass racing. His mark has dropped though and he looks quite nicely placed in this handicap.

Although only 5th of 6 at Brighton last time, it was Semser's best effort of 2024 in a closely-run race. There's still some way to come, but at least it suggested something of a revival is happening.

Thundering Breeze has run two similar races, in her initial two tries. She went off 66/1 in both and will again be a big price today.  Looking forward to when she can start handicapping.

Cosmic View has been struggling since joining from the Crisford stable. We would be delighted if he could finish in the frame today.

Silastar was 3rd last time and while it was an improvement on earlier form, it was a small field. Right at the foot of the weights, he could run an improved race at a decent price.

Overall, Daphne May has been making hard work of it this year, generally struggling to get anywhere near the business end of her races. Down a few more pounds and with Anna taking off a handy 7lb, she might be just coming into good enough form to suggest each-way chances.

Clear Justice had some okay form around here last year and wasn't beaten all that far at Lingfield, despite finishing 7th. His light weight might bring him into the argument.

Stormingin has been busy on AW. The veteran was a good 4th in this last year and never knows when he's beaten. Place chances.

Two in this amateurs' race and the market finds it hard to separate them. French Martini showed a bit in France before coming over and now gets his very experienced owner to ride him for the first time. Intriguing.

Icare Grandchamp ran his best race yet when 2nd off the same mark at Southwell earlier this month. It's very open but he seems sure to win races going forward so why not today?

Red Cloud benefited from a modest three-race juvenile campaign with a workable low mark. Placed 2nd twice so far this year, he's still only on 47 and ought to win this comfortably.

Duke Of Vienna shaped with promise when 5th at Bath on stable debut. He needs to show more, but it's early days yet and he is one to keep an eye on.

Nachtgeist joined us recently from the Tony Charlton yard. This German import has a flat rating of 99, only 1lb less than his hurdles mark. We're going to learn a fair bit from this, but he's hardly a bet!

Poncho lost his way over jumps last year, so we gave him one run on the flat. There was no immediate promise that day and he since has run another modest rae when well behind back over jumps at Fakenham.

Running The Game was doing okay on AW earlier in the year, winning at Kempton. He reverts to turf racing tonight at Goodwood and he's on a tough mark with the handicappers still relying on his French form.

Sultan Of Aj - the third Oj in the name for Mr Jackson, was ignored by the market overnight. He does have a speedy pedigree though and could have something to offer on this debut.

Stormingin missed his race the other day and this amateurs' contest looks less demanding. The 11-year-old always runs with one of our inexperienced riders and Jude can have a great ride on him tonight. They should go well.

If any horse entered at Ascot today needs a downpour more than Novus we'll be surprised. Well up to the grade in soft ground, if conditions remain as they were yesterday, she would be most unlikely to win. If she runs that is.

Big Bard won at Nottingham last summer but has taken time to get going with just two runs this year. At his best, he would come into this argument.

Fsscinating Lips was narrowly beaten at Windsor two runs ago but was slowly away last time at Goodwood and could never make up the lost ground. A better start should enable him to be very competitive.

We've been very careful with Sanitiser through the winter/spring. We do not want to risk him on either ground too testing or too fast. At the time of writing, we are hopeful the surface will be suitable as he seems to be getting ready to win a hurdle race.

Big Jimbo won a couple in a busy 2023 campaign. He improved on his initial run of this season when 6th at Lingfield last time where he made a slow start, then getting up near the leaders before tiring. Each-way chances now he's getting back into the swing of things.

Two runners in this 0-50 Classified. Atwixaday has yet to make much impact and looks very much second-best in our pair.

We have yet to get much of a tune out of Marayel since he joined us and there was little to suggest in his earlier form that encourages us too much. His mark has dropped though.

Saligo Bay didn't run too badly at Windsor switching back to the level after running over hurdles. At his best, he would have each-way pretensions.

Give It To Me Oj shaped nicely on his debut at Newbury. This is a competitive maiden and while we expect a decent showing, he's drawn very wide which isn't a help around Sandown.

Miller Spirit came good in an apprentices' handicap here over 1m4f a week ago, beating impressive York winner Dancing In Paris. He's unpenalised and the way he outstayed his rival that day suggests 1m6f shouldn't be a problem.

Two in this handicap and it would be a remarkable effort if Beau French were to win having been off the track for 1125 days (or more than three years!). We'd be content with a solid run to get him back on the wagon.

Our Papa Smurf made a good comeback for the year when 2nd at Brighton but didn't follow up when favourite last time at Bath. A return to the earlier form would give him each-way chances.

Yarborough has run two decent races as a 3yo,  over 10f and then 11.5f and goes up again in distance. He is the outsider of the field, but we've always liked him and it wouldn't be a shock if he got into the money.

Rage Of Thunder will be our first juvenile runner of the year. A breeze-up buy from Goffs UK in late April, he has a speedy enough pedigree and today will be a useful guide to his immediate prospects.

Non-runner

Autumn's Breeze makes a belated career debut in a race where some big stables are represented. It will be a useful guide to what we can expect from him in the future.

For the most part, Tara Iti found it hard going last season. Apart from a close third around Fakenham, he has been disappointing and slipped down the handicap in that time. He may struggle to halt the sequence despite dropping down a few pounds more.

Magic Memories came back to last year's good form with a solid 2nd place to course specialist Dual Identity at Sandown last month. Two non-runners have weakened this field and he looks the one to beat.

Call Off The Dogs came back to form nicely last month, winning twice over 2m2f and then over today's slightly longer trip The 4lb rise should not be a bother, any more than 12st top-weight for this good weight-carrier.

non-runner

Crescent Lake is equally adept on turf and AW and his last two runs on the former have been encouraging. Third, staying on over 1m6f here last time, it would not take too much imagination to predict he can get the job done this afternoon.

Cephalus put together a lovely winning sequence of four wins in February and March. Still on Aw but off 22lb higher than when he started the run, he was 4th at Chelmsford. He has never made the frame in seven starts on the flat in his career so far. We hope he will enjoy it better this time.

Oj Lifestyle made some promising late progress on 2nd run back after his winter break. More significantly, the handicapper has finally let him go a little after that 125/1 win at Newbury two seasons back and 74 looks much more feasible.

Miller Spirit had some nice form last year but looked in need of the run on his comeback. Maybe he'll be better for one more run.

One Step Beyond bounced forward from his seasonal debut with an excellent effort under today's apprentice at Ascot. Always prominent, he kept on all the way to the line, failing by less than a length in 3rd over that straight mile.

Bated Breeze made a promising return to action after his break at Kempton in April. He was a close 3rd then but two further runs have been less impressive. He needs to get back on track.

Fascinating Lips showed his first form for some time when a staying-on 2nd at Windsor last time. He looks nicely positioned at the foot of this handicap to step up into the winner's circle.

Voodoo Ray has kept on winning (twice) around here and then made a rare trip away from Brighton and won off a higher mark at Bath. Back here, 5lb higher, he still looks the one to beat.

Duke Of Vienna joins us after a sequence of disappointing runs. His mark has been plummeting but whether that's been enough for us to win first time with him, only the race will tell.

Bishop's Glory is new to us. He won over the winter at Wolverhampton, but it's probably mostly a fact-finding mission after his few months off the track.

Marayel has done the rounds as far as stables are concerned. He made his debut for us at Brighton after ten months off and fifth of nine in the circumstances gave us something to work with. Anna claiming 5lb in an apprentices' race also offers some hope. Small place claim off his low mark.

Atwixaday has been dropping down the ratings without too much response. He's back after a break and he's another that needs to start showing more.

Lady Twilight probably found things happening a little too quickly for her over the extended 5f at Bath last time. Back up to 7f, she should show a little more off her low handicap mark.

Ex-French Inigo came back this year after 18 months off and showed little in his qualifying runs. He fell last time when running off his initial figure of 86. If he avoids a similar error, he might run well off that mark.

Everest is a home-bred 5yo mare running in Gary's colours on this racecourse debut. Naturally, we'll be hoping for a nice start to her career.

Icare Grandchamp ran well over hurdles at Fontwell in September, holding on well for 2nd after making the running. He was less impressive in two subsequent runs, the latter a debut over fences. He needs to do better.

Fascinating Lips has been very much out of form, but the handicapper has been helpful and he's on a career low. Surely the tide should turn before long.

Thundering Breeze ran on for 4th when a 33/1 chance here on debut. He will have learnt plenty and can get a little nearer this evening.

Anificas Beauty gets a rare run away from Chelmsford where her form has been disappointing of late. She had a very inexperienced, albeit enthusiastic, amateur on her last time and Tom will enhance her prospects.

Semser was going well on AW late last year but he has been a long way below that this season. His last run was a shade better and if he maintains the improvement, he can go well in an ordinary race.

Red Cloud dropped from out of the clouds last time here having got a long way behind. He only needs to be a little sharper early on to gain a first win. The 1lb rise looks generous enough.

Poncho was shaping very nicely as a novice early last year when he beat the decent hurdler Tapley after a fought-out finish at Plumpton. His jumping seems to have deserted him since and after a break this is something of a rehabilitation.

Angel's Dream hasn't been in the best of form at all this year and stopped quickly last time when we thought he had a decent chance. Will need to find something from somewhere.

When a horse starts to improve later in his career, there's no knowing how far he could go. Kotari at Epsom is obviously way up in grade but with successive wins at Salisbury, Windsor and Ascot, who's to say where he might end up? Hopeful.

Lady Twilight did very little in her three qualifying runs and not much better in her first handicap. A low draw on Lingfield's 6f turf course is never easy to deal with and we hope Rob can get her across into a challenging position despite her stall position in four in a big field.

Silastar won almost to the day a year ago at Leicester. He's done nothing in three runs this year to suggest he's anywhere near another win, but this is a pretty ordinary contest.

Big Jimbo, like our other two runners on the day, resumed recently after a winter break. He did not come near the best of last year's form, but different headgear may bring an improved performance. Each-way chances.

Big Bard made a promising seasonal comeback when 3rd at Salisbury over 6f. racing prominently and leading, then rallying after being headed a furlong from home. The extra furlong should suit. Hopeful.

Fierce was rewarded for consistent sprinting form with a 5f novice win at Nottingham last July. He returned last month after seven months off and tired late on in heavy ground over 6f at Windsor. He should be sharper for that. He tries first-time blinkers and goes up in trip. Let's hope the new combination works.

We've been ultra-careful with where we've run Sanitiser. It's been disappointing that he hasn't looked way better than his jumps mark, but it's early days and he may yet show talent as a hurdler.

Alpha Crusis is due a long journey and we hope it won't be in vain - weather etc. He ran very well when 3rd at Goodwood last time and off his light weight, he would have to hold a decent chance.

Call Off The Dogs had been gradually coming back to form and he announced it with a six-length win in a four-horse race over 2m2f here a couple of weeks back. The 6lb rise should not inconvenience him, nor should the slightly longer trip. Very hopeful.

Yarborough always looked like a horse that would do better as a 3yo in his runs last year and his recent comeback 2nd at Brighton confirmed that view. Big chance to go one better.

Warning Sign was running well late last season. He's yet to hit form in a couple of runs, but his mark is coming down. I'm sure owner David Dunsdon is looking to get back on him in an amateurs' race before too long.

Crescent Lake stepped up on earlier form this year with a closing 3rd at Ascot two weeks ago. Bottom weight in a trappy race seems to give him an each-way chance.

Apart from a 2nd, beaten by a nose at Windsor last summer, Cloudy Breeze had a modest 2023. She returns from a break on a career-low mark in a trappy race. Each-way chances.

Havaila was making his stable/seasonal debut when going within a neck of smart/versatile Punctuation over this CD last month. It's another decent handicap but he has bottom-weight and it will be hard for this field to keep him out of the money. Very hopeful.

Magic Memories ran well when 5th on his return in the Spring Mile at Doncaster but was never travelling last time out at Leicester. I think we can forgive him that and off bottom weight he appeals as a possible each-way shot tonight.

We were hoping for a better showing from Daphne May last time at Windsor but she got tired late on in the heavy ground. Back on AW, she has a big weight but at her best, she would handle this opposition. Dangerous off this mark.

Three meetings close to London and we have a single runner at each! Clear Justice made a low-key return after six months' absence at Bath. He should be a little sharper but this race looks very competitive.

One Step Beyond was always in contention when a close 3rd last time in an apprentices' race over the straight mile at Ascot. Now with Rhys taking over, this eight-time winner has to be there with each-way claims.

Two with similar profiles in this tricky handicap. Fascinating Lips has won three on the flat added to which he took a hurdle on his only try over jumps at Fontwell almost two years ago. Struggling a bit of late, he was well beaten on his comeback run at Windsor last month.

Like Fascinating Lips, Semser is also a four-time winner and was running well in the latter part of 2023 with a couple of placed efforts at Chelmsford. Since returning in March he has put in three below-par efforts on AW and reverts to turf on which surface so far he has yet to win.

The 5yo Marayel started life with a run in the US, moved to France, and was then in two different UK yards before joining us after almost a year off the track. His mark has dropped to a level where if we can get him going he ought to be capable of winning a race or two.

Red Cloud had his three required runs quite close together in late summer/autumn last year and showed very little. He was gelded immediately after the 3rd of them and we hope there will be more to come, handicapping from his basement mark.

Three runners in this handicap and top-weight Miller Spirit is just a pound higher than Saligo Bay and 2lb in front of Oj Lifestyle. He comes here from a five-month break and may just be better for the run.

Oj Lifestyle has struggled since his 125/1 victory at Newbury 2nd time out brought a mark of 90. He was gelded before his last run when he was last of 18 and needs to start picking up now rated 77.

Saligo Bay has been busy over jumps this past winter, winning a race at Plumpton in November. Like our other pair, he needs to find more in a race of this nature although there should be no fitness issues.

Non-runner

Give It To Me Oj was a 100k yearling buy who is making his debut as a 3yo. His owner saw his colours carried to a 125/1 success here in August 2022 by Oj Lifestyle as a 3yo. Maybe lightning can strike twice although the difference is this is first time out.

The Whipmaster can lose ground at the start and has been below form lately apart last year from a win and a 2nd place at Windsor, which seems to suit him best. Always capable of popping up at a price, so not one to discard lightly.

Two runs for us so far for French Martini, both at massive odds and he has yet to beat an opponent. Hopefully he can end that gloomy record, but it would take a massive improvement to get among the principals.

Call Off The Dogs came back in February after a two-year break and has been improving steadily. He has yet to finish in the first three in those runs, but should manage it today.

Jolyjump won at Taunton last month and if his jumping had been more fluent at Fakenham last time he would have gone close to a follow up but still finished a respectable 2nd. Caoilin takes over from an inexperienced partner and can do the business.

Tara Iti ran his best race for some time when 3rd at Fakenham last week. At his best he would make mincemeat of these off his finally reduced mark.

Executive Pool had a modest 2023-24 season on balance, not matching that of his novice season. There was a glimmer of hope last time but he needs to find much more to figure.

Flamelco won a hurdle race in France but that was more than two years ago. His chase career so far has been disappointing but his mark has dropped and this is a weakish race, albeit he carries 12st. Looking for a revival really.

Lazed is a 4yo making his debut under any Rules of racing. He's by Derby winner Authorized whose progeny we have done well with. Interesting.

Poncho at six is twice the age of his ten opponents. He starts on the flat as a useful hurdler, rated 111, which probably translates to around 61-71 on the flat. It would be surprising if none of these is capable of a good deal more.

Non-runner

Big Bard resumes after a winter break having won three times in 2023 when his mark rose on turf from 48 to 66. Anna won on him last year and she is one of the more experienced in this hands and heels (no whips carried} race. Hopeful of a good start back.

Our Papa Smurf made a nice improvement at Brighton two weeks ago, finishing a good 2nd. Several of today's line-up were behind him there, so as he seems to be improving, we hope he can keep ahead of them now. Big chance.

Asense had a couple of good wins around here last autumn. He's been a shade off so far but Tom gets back on for the first time since the initial one of those two victories and that could set him on the way again. Hopeful.

Le Boulevardier hasn't shown much over jimps lately but there could well be some scope in his low flat mark. We'll find out today if that's the case.

Voodoo Ray makes a rare trip away from Brighton. He's won his last two with increasing ease and it would be no surprise if he makes this away day a winning one.

Big Bard had a busy 2023 and we've given him a longer break than usual. He remains fairly treated and with a promising boy taking off 7lb, he has to be an each-way candidate.

Cloudy Breeze ran her best race of 2023 when beaten a nose here in June. She returns after a six-month break and may just tighten up for the run.

Thundering Breeze was an 80k yearling buy that we have not managed to get on the track until now. A daughter of Dark Angel she starts from a highish draw in a big field and that won't be easy to overcome on debut.

Non-runner

Our other runner Inigo showed winning form in France but nothing like that since coming over here. There might not be much between the pair, but he is 4lb lower so has a chance in a trappy race.

Two in this and course and distance winner (from last May) Angel's Dream turns up here having done nothing since. Clearly, there is ability in there and this might well be encouraged out by first-time blinkers.

Aviles was 2nd four times in a row at the start of his hurdles career once arriving here from France and made it five when switching to fences. The sequence resumed after a couple of lesser performances last time at Fakenham. It's hard to be too optimistic, but we're sure that once he does get his head in front it will burst the dam and initiate a sequence.

Alain made an ordinary enough start to racing, pulling up here in late January, but there was much more to like about his 3rd at Fakenham last month. He needs to continue his progress, but if he can, this race should be within his grasp.

Authorised Speed runs in a novice chase - one of the more unfashionable types of race where tracks are concerned but Warwick has struck lucky with a nice well-balanced field. He's not far behind the top on ratings and we'll hope he can show more of what he did as a novice hurdler in 2022-23.

Teddy Blue came to the final flight in last year's Swinton Hurdle with a lead and a great chance but made a mess of the obstacle. He kept on well for 2nd but struggled all through the rest of the season. It's worth a crack to see if lightning can strike twice.

It's hard to forget Peking Opera's 4th in last year's Irish Derby but apart from a first-time win over hurdles, he's been nowhere near that since joining us. Maybe the first-time blinkers will make a difference.

Kotari has switched back to the flat over the past month to great effect. Initially a narrow winner at Windsor, he improved greatly on that at Salisbury on Sunday. It was sensible to carry the penalty as he's still in great form and we can expect quite a hike in his mark in next Tuesday's list.

Crescent Lake did well over 1m6f at Goodwood last year, and he heads the weights here, albeit unproven at 2m. Anna takes a helpful 7lb off but he does need to step up on what he's shown so far in 2024.

Havaila made a great start for the stable when just failing to catch Punctuation at Goodwood last week. This looks an excellent opportunity.

Anificas Beauty won a couple of races around here early last year. Mr. Ned Sangster, cousin of trainer Ollie and grandson of famed Robert, is right at the start of what he hopes will be a successful stint as an amateur rider. If there were prizes for determination and enthusiasm, he would go right to the top, but that's a long way off. Good luck!

Apart from a single and pretty good 3rd at Chelmsford last September, Voodoo Ray has been here for his other last ten races since late 2022. He returned to action nine days ago with a narrow win and from only 2lb higher he surely will be tough to beat today.

Yarborough was given his three qualifying runs in decent maidens and while unplaced in his first handicap, we always thought he would be a better 3yo. In this 0-58, he has a chance to show that there is indeed plenty more to come from him.

Bated Breeze made a promising start when 3rd here at a big price on his return after a long absence. He didn't build on that as expected at Bath last time, but returning to Kempton should bring a better performance. Each-way chances.

Twenty Twenty landed a 20/1 surprise at Wincanton in December but hasn't matched that since, He needs to rekindle that level but he's higher in the handicap now so it won't be easy.

Time To Dazzle was an impressive winner around here in February but failed to fire last time at Taunton and was pulled up. The better ground might work in his favour while a repeat of his course form would make him a player.

Lemi Plugin was attempting what we thought an impossible task when a closing 2nd to our much more experienced and better fancied All Authorized over 2m3f around here last month. That was his hurdles debut after three less impressive runs in bumpers and the longer trip here should suit. Big chance on that debut effort.

Heaven Smart has unseated his rider the last twice - the first time when already beaten at Kempton, the latest was too early to know what might have happened. Before that, he was most impressive making all at Kempton and a return to that Heaven Smart would give him a great chance.

Sanitiser had his frequently-delayed return at Kempton a fortnight ago and just tired a little in the closing stages. His 3rd there was a portent of better to come and he can step up for a first jumps win here.

Jolyjump clicked first time in a handicap hurdle at Taunton and has been penalised 7lb for that.  The victory was a big improvement on those qualifying runs and we have to hope there's potential for more.

Tara Iti had a quiet 2023-24 but starts the new campaign on a reduced mark and down in class. Few of these are in much form either and he could appreciate the easier opportunity.

Daphne May missed a race recently but conditions should be fine today. She struggled a bit on AW over the winter but did well on turf last year and off this reduced mark, should go close.

Editeur Du Gite had a spell on the sidelines before his recent comeback in Jonbon's race at Sandown and quickly lost his place after leading. This looks a great opportunity, down in grade.

Clear Justice managed a nice 2nd place at Brighton last autumn although he didn't back it up in two more runs. He returns after six months off and may be a little ring-rusty.

Fierce won on soft ground last year and returns here after almost eight months' absence. He may need the run but the ground will be no problem.

Non-runner

Lucky San Jore won a couple of handicaps at Wolverhampton two years ago but has been in a bit of a slump more recently. He was a mid-70s flat performer and can make a good start on stable/hurdle debut.

Lady Twilight has been beaten a long way in her qualifying runs. Her mark of 52 offers scope in handicaps and she might begin to show ability.

Kotari was fit from jumping when he made the switch to the flat at Windsor last month and he won nicely. He's 4lb higher now in a tight little race but we'll be disappointed if he didn't go close.

Novus lost her unbeaten record on soft ground narrowly at Goodwood yesterday but was gaining again at the finish of that mile race. She is a Group 3 winner over this 1m1f last autumn and if we decide to run her again, I'm sure she'll not let anyone down although this is a rise in class to Group 2.

Alpha Crucis was never going the pace either in the Lincoln or the Newbury Spring Cup. We think it's worth having a try at 10f and remember, he was a soft-ground winner over a mile at the track last October. Decent each-way shout.

Havaila makes a debut for us today having been jumping most recently. He has placed form on the flat and the ground will not be a problem. More likely though the opposition on these terms might be a shade too strong.

Novus ended 2023 with a fine win in a Group 3 for fillies and mares at Newmarket. She will have benefited from her comeback run which was on unfavourably fast ground. The mud here will be right up her street. Hopeful.

Crescent Lake is a free-going sort who has not yet got back to last year's solid level in staying handicaps. This small field might help him to start to show something of that 2023 form, but we will make a late decision of whether to let him take his chance on this heavy ground.

Platinum Prince has the distinction of being the first runner under the Gary & Josh Moore banner. He ran well last time at Chelmsford and hopefully, we've found a winnable race to get the "new" partnership off to a flyer.

Warning Sign was in decent form in the autumn and it was understandable if he was a little ring-rusty at Lingfield after more than six months' absence. He ought to be a little sharper tonight.

French Martini is one of two we have in this. He showed little promise on his first run since coming over from France, but he did have decent form there. Might need a run or two fully to acclimatise.

Semser was placed twice to end his 2023 campaign but has been a long way below that level in two runs this year. He needs to get his season back on track.

One Step Beyond needed the run on his recent comeback but he did win over the straight mile here last summer. He's been a prolific winner over the years and now in an apprentice race with Anna claiming 7lb, he has to be interesting off clear bottom weight.

Voodoo Ray ran eight times last year, seven of them for two wins at Brighton. He's been off since the autumn and may be fitter for the outing.

Our Papa Smurf had four runs last season as a juvenile without getting anywhere near the winner's circle. He needs to show more, but he's far from a hopeless case and we're looking forward to seeing him back on the track.

Non-runner

Parikarma has been struggling a little over hurdles since winning in claiming company over the winter. She has a decent win score on the flat and is fairly handicapped. She might just be better for getting back in the swim on the level.

Our other runner The Whipmaster had a nice win over slightly further on this course in June last year. He's been off since the autumn but has a good win percentage and has won first time out in the past.

We run two in this tricky handicap. Silastar won a couple last spring but has been a long way short of that in two runs on the AW this year. He needs a revival but we've not seen much sign of it yet.

We run two in this season finale. Authorised Speed was a smart novice hurdler last year and we had high hopes for him as a novice chaser. That hasn't worked out well so far, but if he restarts hurdling in the same vein as he left off last term, there would be much more surprising winners than him in this handicap.

Mark Of Gold has a tremendous record over jumps, with seven wins in 18. Add three more on the flat and he has that winning mentality. Tough ask, but he'll always give a positive answer.

We're left with just Kotmask here. He usually runs Sandown well although he struggled before falling late on Imperial Cup Day, a run he put to rights with a subsequent 3rd at Plumpton. Each-way chance at his best.

Non-runner

I was really disappointed in him at Aintree the other day, that's why I was half-keen to run him again. I wanted to give him another try with a pair of blinkers on.

Editeur Du Gite is in the form of his life, it's a shame that it's such a good race. He's always had problems with his feet but we seem to have got him back on track now. If he can nick a place I'll be well pleased. He's going well enough to do that.

Magic Memories ran very when 5th in the Spring Mile at Doncaster. He has a featherweight, further reduced by Jack's 7lb claim. Good chance to finish in the money in a hot handicap.

Yellow Star will need a miracle as it's a tough assignment. I'm trying a pair of blinkers to see if that will bring some improvement in him.

Daphne May showed her first sign of regaining her best form for a while when a staying-on 6th over a mile here two weeks ago. She might be coming to the boil and has a small place chance, dropping to 7f.

Jolyjump ran against some nice hurdlers in his three qualifying runs. He must have been hard to assess and I reckon 92 is as much as the handicapper could have given him. The market though rates him a player. We'll see!

Call Off The Dogs had a couple of years off before resuming in February and it's been a struggle so far. He did complete last time after two pulled-up runs and his mark has dropped in concert with that. Might be getting nearer to being competitive.

Cloud Dancer has been running in novice hurdles even though given a mark, and finished a well-beaten 2nd the last twice. Dropped a few pounds from his latest effort, he still looks to have plenty of weight against some more experienced handicappers.

Hudson De Grugy ran easily his best race of the season when 3rd at Sandown last month, and it should probably have been better, at least 2nd and possibly even a win bar a couple of inconveniences in the closing stages. Although not entirely proven at 3m, on this better ground he could last home and be a big player.

Champagne Piaff came back after two and a half years off the track with a highly promising 3rd at Bath recently. Ryan takes the mount and we'll be hoping that between rider and horse, we can get right in the action in this long-established race.

Junkanoo made a promising start in novice hurdles but an open handicap hurdle at Sandown found him out. This hands and heels race should be less demanding and Rob can claim 8lb, reducing his big weight nicely. Each-way chance.

Larry won at Plumpton three runs ago but has been contesting tough handicaps since. He's a great old boy and is always liable to pop up at a nice price.

Everything was going swimmingly for Issar d'Airy with two wins at Newbury but his jumping was suspect when he tried for the hat-trick here last month. He has schooled well since and should be fine. Chances.

If he runs Sanitiser should be capable of winning off such a low mark in relation to his flat rating. Then again, it's not always that simple!

Inigo has yet to show much but accordingly has a low initial mark. He should be able to fare better than in novices.

Non-runner

Two runners here. Oj Lifestyle ran his best race of 2023 when 3rd at Epsom on his final start and was subsequently gelded. He can continue to progress, but this is a tough start to his campaign.

One Step Beyond joins Oj Lifestyle in this competitive handicap. He joined us midway through last season, making an immediate impact with two wins out of his first three. He didn't quite maintain it, but wasn't overraced and can start this year afresh.

Alpha Crucis kept improving last year and made a very promising reappearance when 4th in the Lincoln at Doncaster. He will appreciate the less demanding conditions here and Anna takes off the 7lb again. The high draw should be a help.

Peking Opera made a winning debut over jumps for us but did not back that up next time.  He was 4th in the Irish Derby - as one of the Auguste Rodin back-up team - but this is a very tough re-introduction back on the level.

Bated Breeze outran his odds when 3rd after an eight-month absence at Kempton the other day. If he can give Tom a more measured run through, he could easily go close.

Asense compiled an autumn hat-trick, the first two wins coming here. Although only raced three times since, his mark is almost down to the latest winning level.  He usually makes the running but that might be difficult unless Anna can get him to fly out of the stalls from this wide draw. Value each-way mark (if she does!).

Flamelco has not been the most consistent since switching to fences but his mark is now considerably lower than his hurdles figure. It's not the highest class race he's contested and if everything clicks, he could easily come home in front.

Through the  Ages was coming along very nicely with wins in juvenile events either side of the New Year but after a two-month break was well beaten at Sandown. He tried to make all the running in testing ground that day, while conditions today will be far less severe. With the 10lb wfa allowance, he looks nicely pitched in this first handicap off 115. Hopeful.

Three handicappers turn up in this trappy 0-105 handicap. Bridge has been consistent in his first season and will probably enjoy the faster ground as it will help him use his decent flat-race speed. Probably in the best form of our trio.

Tara Iti is another winner from last year who has been below that level since coming back for the latest campaign. The handicapper seems nervous about dropping him too far and while a couple of pounds have finally come off, whether that will be enough to encourage him back to his best is another story.

Since winning over hurdles just over a year ago at Hereford, Executive Pool has been running disappointingly over fences. We hope returning to hurdles might rekindle some enthusiasm.

We double up in this. All Authorized has the highest rating of those to have run, and in his last five races only once has he stepped out of handicaps and was a close 2nd in a maiden hurdle. Back at that level, he has an outstanding chance on form.

Lumi Plugin has run with promise in his three bumpers. A place could be possible but he would be doing well to match his stable-companion first time over jumps.

Anificas Beauy won here twice last spring at 6f and 7f. She went up after the later of the wins at today's trip but is now back down to that mark and Rhys who was on board that day, gets the ride. Promising signs.

Stormingin continues to defy his years and returns to the same CD where he gave his young rider a first win. This will be only her 3rd ride so if she wins that would represent a healthy enough strike rate. He's only 3lb higher and has the plum draw so why not?

After a long absence, Full Back fell on his return and then tired late on in a marathon on very testing ground at Haydock. Conditions will be friendlier today and the CD winner should now be ready to make more of an impact.

Novus didn't stop improving throughout last season. She won twice at Goodwood and ended her 3yo campaign with a smart performance in a fillies' Group 3 over 1m2f here. It's the same grade, Group 3 and only one furlong shorter, but now she's pitched in against the boys. Deservs the chance to take them on.

Non-runner

We run two in this handicap. Fascinating Lips won in 2022 but didn't return to action until last June and had finished off the year by September. His form was well below that of the previous campaign so while his mark is lower it's a watching brief today.

Our other runner Kotari came from France and didn't run from autumn 2022 until last October. One run around here preceded a few over hurdles and so far he hasn't excelled at that. At least he will be fit and we can gauge where he relates to these domestic handicappers.

Non-runner

Abingworth is clearly going the right way over fences, winning a couple in the West Country. He's nearer to home today and it's Paul Nicholls' turn to play on away soil. His horse will be a big threat and like us, he's claiming 3lb for using his own conditional as we are with Caoilin.

We've got the ground for Nassalam and his jockey back from injury just in time to renew the partnership that dominated the Welsh National He handled the fences well in the Grand Sefton before that, but off 161 it won't be easy. Up 16lb for a race where hardly anything got round? I hope the handicapper was right, but 40/1 suggests he wasn't, especially when you consider he has conditions to suit.

Botox Has came back to winning form last time under testing conditions in the Grade 2 Rendlesham at Haydock. He's back with the big boys again and while he's a biggish price, there isn't much between all the main contenders on official ratings. If it's to be settled by pure guts, he won't be far away.

Walk In The Wild has been generally disappointing although he wasn't beaten far when 3rd of only four runners last time. It's hard to get too excited about his prospects here but he has the ability at his best.

Heaven Smart won well two runs back but got murdered by the handicapper. He was already beaten when unseating late on last time. Could go close with a clear run but his mark is tough.

Daphne May is showing little sign of retrieving last year's form. She won from 5lb higher than today's mark so if she does get that level back, she would have a small each-way chance.

Two in this junior NH hurdle and both with two runs in bumpers behind them. It might be close between them but Authentic Legacy ran in a decent race at Newbury last time and could be marginally in front on form.

The Ron Do Ron like Authentic Legacy has had a couple of runs, staying on very well when it was all over for 4th at Kempton. We thought he would improve for that next time but in all fairness probably didn't. Very little between them though.

Cephalus put up another best in this exciting season for him and he's now won four in a row. The handicapper keeps piling on the pounds - up another 7lb for a neck last time! Only Tom knows if he can handle it but my guess is he can.

Ballybentragh is well but it looks like he will have his work cut out at this level. Owner-rider David Maxwell was keen to give it a crack so we hope he can put up a good show.

Aviles missed a few chances during his sequence of five 2nd places in a row, including a debut runner-up first time over fences. The top two are in good form but he gets plenty of weight so if he can get back to that earlier form, he could have a squeak.

If Spirit D'Aunou is at his best he should give a good account in a wide-open race. We think he can outrun his odds.

Black Gerry had been in a slump but made a timely return to something like his best when 2nd at Plumpton last week. He acts on the ground and there will be worse each-way bets at a price here today.

The memory of Aviles' five consecutive and usually close 2nd places is being supplanted by some lesser performances. Down a little after the loss of form, it's unlikely to be enough to spark an instant revival.

Johnny Jump Up was a comfortable winner two runs back but then got worried out of a potential follow-up by a Nicholls runner to whom he was trying to give weight. The better ground here has attracted a competitive field but it's also a qualifier for a valuable final and we need to run. Each-way shout.

Two in this, both capable of running well at this level, but also both with difficult draws. Asense made a good comeback, 4th at Lingfield having made the running last month, and should be cherry-ripe for this.

Big Jimbo likes Kempton but he's back after five months off and may well be better for the outing. Like Asense he hasn't been helped by the draw.

A slow start on his comeback was only the beginning of Silastar's problems that day. With the run behind him, we expect a better show now from this course and distance winner.

Champagne Piaff hasn't been seen on the track for 18 months. He won off today's mark on his penultimate run and while that was on much faster ground than today's he also had run well on soft. The trip is fine so we go there with a degree of optimism.

Jupiter Du Gite looked much more the finished article when winning for the first time over fences here going clear up the run-in. The 7lb extra is less of a worry than hoping he'll not pull too hard. The ground is fine and with that alone, you're halfway there.

Platinum Prince hasn't quite struck form yet this year but he hasn't been beaten far in either of his two outings. We're claiming off him and that could help him be more competitive.

Capricorn Prince loves Lingfield but he's been in and out for his past few runs and after a midwinter break, made a below-par comeback run at Kempton last time. He doesn't mind a big field, but he needs to return to something like his best to be competitive.

Warning Sign made a statement when finishing clear on the far side of the Spring Cup at Doncaster a year ago, although that side of the race was well behind the much larger stands group. He ran a couple of good 2nd places in the latter part of the season in amateurs' races ridden by owner David Dunsdon.  No doubt David will want to see more action on him later in the year.

Three runners here today and all in this handicap, none with obvious chances. French Martini was bought last November in France. A five-race maiden,  he did start off with a couple of places, but didn't go on from there. Nice pedigree but we'll see what to expect going forward when he runs today.

Semser is the one of our trio to have seen recent action, an unremarkable effort over 1m2f here. At the foot of the handicap, he also gets 7lb off and he and Anna might squeeze into a place as he drops to 1m.

Bated Breeze joined in the summer and his initial run in August was disappointing. The handicapper hasn't  taken any chances with his mark but we'll have a better idea on that after he runs.

Lady Twilight didn't show much in her two juvenile starts to suggest she can figure in this comany. A wide draw adds to the difficult task on 3yo return.

After an excellent 2023 on the flat and over hurdles, Aggagio made a promising comeback at Huntingdon in January, finishing 2nd. If he could polish up his jumping, he would be a good thing to win this.

Daphne May had a busy 2023 and she has yet to get anywhere near her level then. Needs a revival but will it be today? Doubtful.

A winner around here last May, Angel's Dream has not shown much yet this season and we've given him a three-month break since disappointing last time. He could well be better for the run.

Yet another day when Sanitiser appears in the runners. For one reason or another, he hasn't taken up those opportunities but this smart flat-racer should win one very soon, hopefully today.

Cloud Dancer won at Newbury just over a year ago and has been 3rd both times this season, showing more promise the first time at Ascot. Freshened up for this, he should be a strong each-way contender.

Call Off The Dogs is on the comeback trail having been off for almost two years. His first two pulled up runs aren't giving us too much hope for a quick return to his best.

Crescent Lake returned after a six-month break at Lingfield where he started 125/1 and ran accordingly. He'll be an outsider again and we just hope he can run a little better.

Le Boulevardier was backed from 25/1 to 9/2 at Ludlow four months ago and bolted up. He has joined us since then with a new owner and we think we're going the right way using Niall to claim 3lb in this conditionals' race. Hoping he'll run well.