Pontesbury Tractors Case IHAFS Connect Handicap Chase

Improved model switched to handicaps/upped to 3m over hurdles in 2022/23, battling well when gaining a third success at Market Rasen (23f) in March. Better than ever when making third chase start a winning one at Southwell last month, forging clear. Up 5 lb but this trip will suit.

Showed improved form to get off the mark fitted with cheekpieces at Wincanton in April, probably benefiting from being sent to the front a long way out. Looks a thorough stayer and would have finished a clear second had he not fallen 2 out on reappearance 3 weeks ago.

Winless over hurdles but quickly set the record straight over fences last term, gaining a third victory here (23.8f) in February. Just touched off back here in April and sound reappearance when third at Chepstow a month ago.

All 4 of his wins over fences have come at Ludlow, with his latest success over 23.8f in December. Completely lost his way during first half of 2024 so comes with major risks attached.

Showed improved form to get off the mark under Rules reverted to patient tactics in 7-runner handicap hurdle at Chepstow (19.4f, soft) back in March. Won sole start in points and looked a better chaser when making winning start in 3-runner contest (23.8f) here a fortnight ago. More to come.

Useful chaser at his peak for Alan King but well beaten so far over both sets of obstacles for this yard. Worth a go at this trip but others far more persuasive. Cheekpieces on.