With a very weak pace forecast on good ground, positioning and tactical speed will likely prove decisive in this tightly matched novices’ handicap. Several runners remain unexposed, but one stands out with both the figures and the run-style advantage.

🔥 Strongest Contender: CHARACTER TESTING (Tom Ellis / Jack Andrews)

ProHandicap Max Top-Rated (110, joint) – Edges favouritism on tactical grounds.

This improving 4yo has shaped with promise in a string of novice handicaps, notably going down just a head at Plumpton last time behind the progressive Lady Caro. Importantly, he races prominently, which should be a major asset in a slowly-run race.

📝 Timeform note: “Usually races freely. Deserves a breakthrough victory after a series of good placed efforts.”

With a pace edge, consistent form, and a top amateur aboard in Jack Andrews, he looks primed to strike.

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⚠️ Main Danger: GRAHAM (Gary & Josh Moore / Niall Houlihan)

Joint top-rated (110) with CHARACTER TESTING, this compact gelding brings some solid Flat ability to the table and ran well when third at Plumpton in a stronger race. The Moore yard is red-hot, and Houlihan is 44% on hurdles favourites.

📝 Timeform note: “Remains leniently treated and could emerge as the main danger.”

That said, he’s been expensive to follow over hurdles so far and may find himself poorly positioned if they crawl early.

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👀 Each-Way Player: FINE POINT (Nigel Hawke / Lorcan Murtagh)

Rated just 10lb below the top duo after adjustments, this close-coupled 4yo remains unexposed and showed ability in juveniles last term. May have needed the run last time after a break and is one to keep on side going forward—though the hold-up style is a worry in this setup.

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🧊 Others

• SIMPLY GORGEOUS has the raw rating but is coming off a 100-day layoff and flopped on her last start. Risky.
• GREGORIANS STAR is consistent but has a bit to find on the numbers and may struggle for a position in a crawl.
• The rest—including KALLY DES BRUYERES, I LOVE PARIS, and CHARLES MORIN—fall into the No Hoper bracket on adjusted figures or profile doubts.

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✅ Verdict

In a race lacking pace, CHARACTER TESTING looks the one to beat with strong adjusted figures, optimal run style, and a deserved win in the offing. GRAHAM is a big player on class and trainer form but could be tactically compromised. FINE POINT is the best of the rest and may outrun odds if settling closer than usual.

🎯 1st: CHARACTER TESTING
🔄 2nd: GRAHAM
💰 EW Value: FINE POINT