Barring accidents, it's hard to see beyond COURAGEOUS STRIKE who has impressed with the way he's taken to hurdles and should have too much speed for these rivals. Linden Lane looks the most likely danger, with Kalize next on the list.[Emily Weber]
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Won Flat handicaps at about 1m1f (AW) and 1m4f (good; RPR 83) and he's found a new calling over hurdles judged by the way he won at Chepstow (dropped to 2m, good) recently; he shouldn't have a problem with this sharp 2m and is the one to beat.
Improved form in the third of three bumpers, here last month, but his hurdle debut over C&D last week didn't go well, tailed off when unseating at the last; best watched.
Beaten 36l+ in three bumpers; big outsider for three hurdle runs, pulled up in the first two and remote third of four at Taunton (2m3f) recently; this lesser test will suit better but ordinary handicaps more likely.
Ex-Stuart Williams; consistent since off the mark (6f, AW) in October; dam bred two winning hurdlers but this one's sire doesn't yell stamina which is the concern now hurdling; hood replaces regular aids.
Failed to complete in four Irish points; has shown quite encouraging signs in two hurdle runs for this yard, over 2m at Fakenham and Ffos Las, and is a good candidate for further improvement; solid forecast claims.
Soundly beaten in three bumpers; 100-1 for hurdle debut at Wincanton in March, where he didn't get a chance to show what he could do as he was pulled up with a slipping saddle; still unlikely this time.
Minor form in bumpers last year (started 16-5 for Uttoxeter debut) but her hurdle debut at Haydock (1m7f, good) last month was mildly encouraging; unlikely to trouble the favourite but has place claims.
1/4 Odds Place 1,2
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