Race Overview

A competitive renewal of this Class 3 handicap hurdle over nearly three miles. With an even gallop expected, the race could favour those proven at the trip and capable of travelling comfortably in mid-division or prominent positions. The majority of the field arrive race-fit, and several are either last-time-out winners or unexposed stayers.


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Strongest Contenders

BILLY BOI BLUE (TFR 135) – Comes into this off a game win at Ayr last month, showing resolution to fend off late challengers. He’s proven over the trip and has won on varying ground. A consistent type at this level, he carries top weight but is the highest rated on Timeform figures. The Killahena/McPherson yard has a healthy level-stake profit with single hurdle runners at meetings.

BETHPAGE (IRE) (TFR 132) – Improved after a wind operation this spring, landing a Wincanton mares’ race before a strong second in a hot Cheltenham contest. Notably unlucky there, repeatedly short of room in the closing stages. Her mark remains workable, and she is unexposed over staying trips. A progressive mare with upside in handicaps.

UOKHUN (IRE) (TFR 134) – Has stepped forward since being tried over 3m, with two wins from her last three starts. Looked well on top at Southwell last time, drawing clear after travelling powerfully. She’s gone up 8 lb for that but remains a threat if able to replicate the performance in a slightly stronger field. Slight concern that an even pace may not maximise her stamina.


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Main Dangers

LETTERSTON LADY (TFR 133) – Lightly raced hurdler who returned from 23 months off with a promising third at Ffos Las. Dual bumper winner and shaped as though she retains ability. A likely improver over this longer trip and rates an interesting contender, particularly with Sean Bowen riding (23% strike rate at Market Rasen).

WILLASTON (IRE) (TFR 131) – Returned to form when winning narrowly at Carlisle last time, despite racing lazily mid-race. The application of a tongue tie and cheekpieces appears to have helped, and he has form at this trip. May need things to fall right, but capable at this level.

SCRUM DIDDLY (IRE) (TFR 126) – Not seen since last summer but had decent novice chase form, including a win at Southwell. Ground and trip are suitable. With 330 days off, market support would be encouraging. Trainer Harry Derham remains in good form.


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Interesting Outsiders

HARDY BOY (FR) (TFR 130x) – Won at this track in 2024 but was inconsistent afterward. Has a tendency to make mistakes and hasn’t always found off the bridle. However, he’s capable on his day and represents Ben Pauling, who has a good recent record with single runners at meetings.

FILS DE ROI (FR) (TFR 129) – Only sixth at Ffos Las last month after four months off and may come forward for that effort. Yet to fully convince as a stayer, but with Fergal O’Brien training, he warrants a second look if supported.

ACCIDENTAL LEGEND (IRE) – Two-time winner in 2023 but pulled up on both chase starts this year. Returns to hurdles off 104 days and needs to bounce back. Best monitored in the market.


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Notable Trends

5 of the last 6 winners were aged 6–8 and rated 115–125.

Recent winners include Lihyan (2024), Giovanni Change (2023), and Regarding Ruth (2021), all carrying 11st+.

Horses trained by Ben Pauling (Hardy Boy) and Mark Walford (Willaston) have won at this meeting in recent years.



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Each-Way Angles (9 runners)

With a full field of nine, there is each-way potential. Letterston Lady appeals on her profile and rider booking, while Willaston may outrun his price if in the same form as Carlisle. Hardy Boy is another with each-way credentials based on past course form, though he does come with risk.


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Market Watch

SCRUM DIDDLY (330 days off) – Fitness not assured; check for support.

ACCIDENTAL LEGEND (104 days off) – Pulled up on last two starts; may drift unless backed.

FILS DE ROI – Lightly raced, second run back; market could guide expectations.