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A small but interesting field lines up for this Class 3 novice handicap chase, with £8,714 to the winner. The going is good, good to soft in places, and with only six runners and a “very weak” pace forecast from Timeform, this could become tactical – favouring those with tactical speed or prominent-racing styles. Several arrive with something to prove, but two clearly stand out on current form.

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Strongest Contenders

FIRST STREET (TFR 143 | OR 127)
Nicky Henderson’s runner sets the standard on Timeform ratings by a clear margin and drops in class after a respectable second at Kempton in a better race. He’s yet to get off the mark over fences but has shown ability at a higher level. The form of his latest run behind Teddy Blue reads well, and he’s been kept fresh (49 days). Still, there’s a caveat: he has traded odds-on in-running three times over fences without winning, which raises questions about his finishing effort. With Brian Hughes aboard (36% on chase favourites per Smart Stats), he’s respected — but any late market drift would be notable.

SHAKEYATAILFEATHER (TFR 137 | OR 117)
Dan Skelton has won this race twice in the past five runnings (2024 and 2019), and this mare arrives in excellent form having landed back-to-back handicaps at Cheltenham and Plumpton. She showed tenacity in both and has proven she can handle a quick turnaround. Although up another 4lb, she’s thriving and remains well-treated on the balance of her form. The Trainer/Jockey combo has a strong recent strike-rate, and she may have more to give despite a busy spell. The main question is whether she can sustain form only 13 days after her last win.

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Main Dangers

SUNSET HILL (TFR – | OR 115)
One of the more intriguing runners, she switches to fences for the first time. Her hurdle form is fairly useful, particularly a strong runner-up effort at Southwell two starts ago. Her latest run at Cheltenham can be overlooked — that was a much deeper contest. From a stable enjoying a good spell, she’s open to improvement and could pose a threat if she takes to chasing. Monitor the market closely, especially given this is her chase debut and she lacks recent chasing experience.

HALPHA SOLEIL (TFR 132 | OR 108)
A previous course winner, he’s got some fair form to his name and might be overlooked slightly after a poor run here last time. His second to Jet Legs at this track in March (beaten a length) gives him a squeak if returning to that level. Jamie Hamilton rides him well, and he has the profile of a horse who could bounce back in a thin contest. May be best when allowed to race prominently, which could suit in a race lacking pace.

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Interesting Outsiders

COQOLINO (TFR 133x | OR 115)
A maiden over fences but not without form. He placed multiple times during the season and is another who has run well here before. However, his jumping has let him down and he arrives off two below-par efforts. Unlikely to win without significant improvement, but not discounted if the race becomes attritional.

BENSON (TFR ? | OR 122)
A once-useful hurdler whose form has tailed off. He has undergone multiple wind surgeries and has shown little spark this season. Hasn’t fired over fences yet and needs a major revival. Trainer Sandy Thomson is capable of a surprise, but he’s one to watch for now — the market may tell the story.

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Notable Trends & Insights

• Dan Skelton has won 2 of the last 5 renewals of this race and is represented again by the in-form Shakeyatailfeather.
• Timeform’s Smart Stats highlight a strong 36% win rate for Brian Hughes on chase favourites — a tick for First Street, who has traded short in defeat.
• The pace forecast is very weak, potentially favouring horses that can sit handy or make their own running.
• No each-way angle available, with only six declared.

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Conclusion

On Timeform ratings, First Street stands out and this represents a good opportunity to finally get his head in front over fences. However, his in-running profile is concerning, and he’s now had three chances in similar scenarios. Shakeyatailfeather is thriving, represents a trainer with a strong record in the race, and appeals as the most solid option despite a quick return. Sunset Hill adds some intrigue as an unexposed type switching to fences, while Halpha Soleil and Coqolino have bits of course form that could play up if the race gets tactical.

Shortlist:

1. Shakeyatailfeather – thriving, reliable, trainer has won the race before
2. First Street – best ratings, class drop, but with questions to answer
3. Sunset Hill – interesting chase debutant from in-form yard