Alan King’s Nap Hand has been knocking on the door over hurdles and looks primed to get off the mark at the third attempt. A three-time winner on the Flat, he has taken well to hurdling, finishing runner-up in two competitive maiden hurdles at Kempton and Huntingdon. Last time, he pulled well clear of the remainder when second to a highly regarded Nicky Henderson horse, confirming his class.

With a Timeform rating of 127, he is comfortably the top-rated in this field, and with Tom Cannon taking the ride once again, he should prove too strong for Under The Sun, who is still learning the game. The drying ground should only aid his chances, and he has the experience edge over his main market rival. This looks like his race to lose.

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3:15 Plumpton – Sole Solution (9/4)

The feature race of the day, the BetGoodwin Sussex Stayers Handicap Hurdle, sees a fascinating renewal with Sole Solution looking like a horse on a steep upward curve. Venetia Williams has placed this lightly-raced seven-year-old carefully, and he arrives here with an unexposed profile and strong staying potential.

He was an impressive winner at Sandown (19.8f, heavy) last time, making all and showing great attitude to fend off challengers late on. The extra yardage today should suit him down to the ground, and with Charlie Deutsch in the saddle, expect another prominent ride to make use of his resilience and stamina.

While Patriotik and Hititi bring solid handicap form to the table, Sole Solution’s upside and progressive nature make him an excellent bet, especially given the likelihood of further improvement at this distance.

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4:22 Plumpton – Demoiselle Kap (8/11)

Trainer Jennie Candlish holds a strong hand in this 2m 214y Handicap Chase, and her rejuvenated Demoiselle Kap is the clear pick. The seven-year-old mare has looked like a different horse since joining her new stable, winning back-to-back chases with authority. Her latest Newcastle victory was particularly impressive, as she sauntered clear in a 9-runner handicap chase, justifying strong market support at 5/6.

While she’s up 11lb for that win, she remains well-handicapped, particularly as she had plenty in hand that day. Jonjo O’Neill Jr. retains the ride, and with Koenigsstern and Caldwell both having question marks, this looks like another ideal opportunity for her to complete a hat-trick.

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Conclusion

With Nap Hand (1:40), Sole Solution (3:15), and Demoiselle Kap (4:22) all looking strong, well-placed selections, Monday’s Plumpton card presents some excellent betting opportunities. Nap Hand should prove too good in the opener, Sole Solution has the class to step up in trip and progress further, while Demoiselle Kap looks to continue her winning streak in style.

Backing this treble could provide some Monday magic at Plumpton – let’s hope for a profitable afternoon!