Galunggung undoubtedly sets the standard. His recent second at Ayr showed improved form, and with Brian Hughes in the saddle—boasting a 35% strike rate on chase favourites—he’s likely to be well-supported. He races prominently, which should suit the very weak pace forecast, and the 21% strike rate for Donald McCain at Carlisle only adds to his credentials. However, at 15/8, the price feels about right rather than offering significant value.

But Barrabooka may be the one the market hasn’t quite got a handle on. His chase debut pull-up at Doncaster doesn’t inspire confidence at first glance, but dig a little deeper, and there are reasons to give him a second look. He showed promise over hurdles, notably winning a novice at Wetherby by 6 lengths in December, suggesting there’s ability there. Importantly, Donald McCain has a 19% strike rate with handicap chase debutants, indicating that his runners often take a step forward after an initial chase outing.

The weak pace may help Barrabooka settle better, and if the first chase experience was more about gaining fitness and learning, there’s every chance he could improve significantly here. At around 5/1, he represents a potential each-way option in a field lacking depth beyond the favourite.