3m | Good | 6 runners

A tight, tactical little handicap where track position, jumping rhythm and stamina at a true three miles will decide it. Kempton rarely turns into a slog, but mistakes are punished quickly and there’s nowhere to hide in a small field.

The Doyen Chief is the clear form standard. He’s been operating in deeper races than this, including strong Grade 3 handicaps, and his Kempton win over C&D earlier in the season reads well. He travels strongly, jumps soundly when on song, and looks the one most likely to control the race if allowed his own way.

Welcom To Cartries is the improver. His Sandown win last time was gritty rather than flashy, but it showed he stays well and is learning his job over fences. Still lightly raced as a chaser and open to more progress for a yard that targets these races well.

Soul Icon is the class angle but comes with risk. He’s top weight, hasn’t won a chase since 2023, and recent efforts have been mixed, including jumping errors. That said, his back form is strong, he’s well treated on his best day, and Kempton suits his travelling style if he puts it all together.

Your Darling is a tough old handicapper who’s capable at this level, but at eleven years of age he’s vulnerable to younger legs late on, especially over this trip. Likely to give his running without being ideally placed to dominate.

Beachcomber and Sea Invasion look opposable. Beachcomber’s recent pulled-ups are a concern, while Sea Invasion is well out of the handicap and stepping up in class against stronger, more seasoned stayers.

Verdict:
In a race lacking depth, The Doyen Chief sets the bar and looks the most solid option. Welcom To Cartries is the main danger as the progressive type, while Soul Icon is the wildcard if rediscovering his best.