---

Pace Angles

• Pace Forecast: Even.
• Bias Note: Prominent racers are not typically favoured over this trip at Perth, suggesting patiently ridden types such as Bleu Lagune may face placement challenges unless the tempo is stronger than expected. Malangen, often ridden prominently, may benefit if the race lacks early dash.

---

Contenders

Bleu Lagune (106) – Very strong handicap debut when fourth at Kelso, shaping with promise. Stuart Crawford’s mare travelled powerfully and finished with running left. She’s unexposed and open to progress. 8/10

Rickety Gate (103) – Returned to form with a win at Carlisle last time. He’s reliable in this grade and retains form over similar trips. 7.5/10

Larkfield Lusive (105) – Latest second at Hexham reads well and showed a good attitude. Has looked capable of breaking through off this mark. 7.5/10

Donso Star (98) – Consistent mare with sound Perth form. Ran creditably after a break and stays the trip. 7/10

Millyupdahilly (96) – Often leads; can be hard to pass when in rhythm but tends to fade late. Would need to dictate steadily. 6.5/10

---

Main Dangers

Malangen (89) – Previous winner here but best efforts have come when allowed a soft lead. Vulnerable late if pressured. 6/10

I’m Too Tired (83) – Dual-purpose performer who has won over fences. Poor recent efforts but returns to hurdles now. 5.5/10

---

Interesting Outsiders

Beat The Retreat (83) – Dual winner last season but hasn’t fired in two runs since. Could revive back over ideal trip. 5.5/10

Prince Nino (85) – Generally below par but second at Newcastle earlier this year was fair. Hard to trust though. 5/10

King Gold Boy (–) – No form in bumpers or hurdles. Easily opposed. 2/10

---

Trends & Trainers

• N.W. Alexander has trained two winners of this race in the past five years (Beat The Retreat).
• Lizzie Quinlan’s sole runner angle yields a +£24.50 to £1 level stake in hurdles.
• Bleu Lagune is the one with strongest recent sectionals and a progressive profile.

---

Layoffs Note

Keep an eye on Malangen (151 days) and I’m Too Tired (64 days) for signs of fitness in the market. Others returning from breaks include Rickety Gate (25) and Millyupdahilly (33).

---

Each-Way Angle

With 10 runners, three places are on offer. Larkfield Lusive and Donso Star appeal as solid place contenders.

---

Tissue Estimate

• Bleu Lagune – 3/1
• Rickety Gate – 9/2
• Larkfield Lusive – 5/1
• Donso Star – 6/1
• Millyupdahilly – 13/2
• Malangen – 10/1
• Beat The Retreat – 12/1
• I’m Too Tired – 14/1
• Prince Nino – 20/1
• King Gold Boy – 40/1