Analysis:

Based on the total ratings, the top five contenders for the race are:

1. Tea Clipper (IRE) with a total of 493.7
2. Gloire Dathon (FR) with a total of 484.0
3. Walk In Clover (IRE) with a total of 443.6
4. Captain Tom Cat (IRE) with a total of 429.6
5. Northern Bound (IRE) with a total of 411.7

Looking closer at each of these horses:

1. Tea Clipper (IRE): The horse is the top-rated in terms of total points and is noted for being respectable in major handicaps, albeit unsuited by a recent step up in trip. With the return to a more suitable trip in this race, the horse could perform well.
2. Gloire D’athon (FR): Although slightly lower in the total points, this horse has been thriving recently with four wins from five over fences. It could be a strong contender, with another bold showing expected.
3. Walk In Clover (IRE): Although third in terms of total points, it’s worth noting that this horse has shown recent success, even winning from 14lb out of the weights at Cheltenham, and following that up with a win at Southwell. Its revised mark could still be within range, making it a potentially strong contender.
4. Captain Tom Cat (IRE): While this horse is no longer the force of old, it has been placed twice this spring. Despite having a lower total points rating, its recent performance suggests that it could make its presence felt in this race.
5. Northern Bound (IRE): With an impressive career record over fences, Northern Bound has been well suited by 2m4f on good/good to firm ground and was in career-best form last summer/autumn. Though its total points are lower, its performance history makes it a notable contender.

Looking beyond the top contenders in terms of total points, it’s worth considering a few horses based on their positive comments.

Raffle Ticket has a relatively lower total point of 396.9 but has a promising record, being 2-3 over fences with more improvement to come. Witness Protection is yet to hit its top gear since returning from a long layoff but has shown some good signs and could have a say in this race. Lastly, Coastguard Station has shown good form recently with good placed efforts and should be able to manage the longer trip well.

Based on the analysis above, Tea Clipper, Gloire D’athon, and Walk In Clover are the top contenders, but horses such as Raffle Ticket, Witness Protection, and Coastguard Station could pose a significant challenge based on their recent form and comments.