The Worcester fences are fair but rhythm and balance count for plenty. Prominent racers have held the advantage in similar conditions this autumn, so the key is likely to be who gets into a steady jumping groove on the first circuit.

Race overview
This is a low-grade 0–105 staying chase where consistency is at a premium. Several arrive after recent wins or placed efforts, but few look progressive. The form horses are Grillon De Monty and Galway Reel, both recent course scorers, while Henry Box Brown has been knocking on the door.

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Contenders

Grillon De Monty (Stephen Allen, Jamie Brace 5lb claim)
A ten-year-old who has rediscovered his form, winning twice over course and distance during the summer. He jumps soundly when in rhythm and tends to travel well before asserting late. Up 5lb for his latest success but still below earlier winning marks, and the claim helps. Any drying ground suits. Reliable and well-handicapped in this company.

Galway Reel (Ian Williams, Charlie Todd)
Finally got his head in front at Market Rasen last time, finding more on the run-in after looking beaten at the last. That came off 87, and he’s only 3lb higher today. Has produced three of his four best RPRs at 3m on good ground, and this straightforward track should help. Confidence should be high after that breakthrough.

Henry Box Brown (Evan Williams, Ellis Collier 5lb)
Often gives his running but needs things to fall right. Won here last summer and has since been placed several times off similar marks. His best work usually comes late, so he’s dependent on a solid pace. The stable is in good heart, and the 5lb claim could make a difference.

Bebside Banter (Max Comley, Freddie Mitchell 5lb)
A three-time chase winner whose best form has come on soft or heavy, particularly at Sedgefield. Hasn’t been finishing off his races on quicker surfaces, but he’s well-treated now. A place chance if rain arrives.

Iris Des Issards (Kayley Woollacott, Callum Pritchard 5lb)
Lightly raced and unexposed over fences. Won over hurdles at Newton Abbot in the spring and was consistent in similar company before a break. Stamina no issue, but chase debutants at Worcester can find the tempo tricky. Market support would be interesting.

Others
George Darling makes his chase debut and has a touch of potential, though jumping fluency is unknown. Butchers Bill, Hitthekettle, and Meranti all have something to prove at this level after modest or incomplete efforts in weaker company.

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Pace and tactics

Grillon De Monty and Galway Reel have both been ridden handily, while Bebside Banter can also go forward. If they lock horns early, it may set things up for a stalker like Henry Box Brown, but recent Worcester results suggest front-runners are still hard to catch on good ground.

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Verdict

Grillon De Monty sets the standard and should be hard to beat if maintaining recent fluency. Galway Reel looks the main danger after finally breaking his maiden tag and still being well within his grade. Henry Box Brown appeals as the best of the rest for place purposes.

Selection: Grillon De Monty
Next best: Galway Reel
Each-way value: Henry Box Brown
Private tissue: 5/2 Grillon De Monty, 7/2 Galway Reel, 13/2 Henry Box Brown, 10/1 bar