3m 54y | Good to Soft (Soft in places) | 8 Runners

The market has formed a clear opinion on this race, with Copperhead (10/3) heading the betting after a string of strong performances in the veterans’ chase division. His victory in the Market Rasen Veterans’ Final was hard-fought, and while the form stacks up well, the price might not offer huge value considering he’s racing off a 4lb higher mark and meets a stronger field here.

One horse who looks particularly well-treated, though, is GUSTAVIAN (4/1). This is his first foray into veterans’ company, and that alone could be significant. A consistent stayer, his second-place finish at Aintree in December reads well – he was beaten only a neck by Fortunate Man, who had previously finished close up in a strong staying handicap at Cheltenham. Crucially, he was staying on strongly that day, and this slightly easier test should play to his strengths. His recent heavy fall at Sandown is a slight concern, but the way he travelled prior to that suggests he’s in form. With no confirmed front-runner in this race, he could find himself in an ideal stalking position, especially with Cloudy Glen likely to set the tempo.

If there’s one horse the market might be underestimating, it’s DOES HE KNOW (4/1). He’s been quietly shaping well in competitive handicaps this season and, while his recent finishing positions don’t scream ‘obvious winner’, the form of his latest Doncaster fourth has worked out very well. That race was run at a strong gallop, and the front two that day were both young, progressive stayers. He finished just over two lengths behind Charlie Uberalles, who has since run well in deeper company. He should be fitter now, and if his jumping holds up, he could prove the class angle in this field.

DASHEL DRASHER (9/2) has been an admirable campaigner over the years, but he doesn’t seem quite the force of old and was beaten 4½ lengths last time despite looking to have every chance. He remains a tough and consistent stayer, but the suspicion is that he’s vulnerable to stronger finishers at this level.

At a bigger price, CREDO (6/1) could outrun her odds. She hasn’t won since February 2023, but her fourth-place finish in a deep Wincanton handicap last time suggests she’s not far off returning to peak form. With Harry Cobden booked and the Anthony Honeyball stable in good form, she could be one for the each-way market, particularly if the ground softens further.

Summary of Selections:

• Main Bet: GUSTAVIAN (4/1) – Well handicapped on best form, first-time veteran runner, strong claims.
• Market Value Pick: DOES HE KNOW (4/1) – Recent form stronger than it looks, well-treated if jumping holds up.
• Each-Way Consideration: CREDO (6/1) – Slightly overlooked by the market, could be suited by race setup.