Largely disappointed last term but had ended previous campaign with victory at Chepstow (16.1f) and got back to that sort of form when creditable third of 14 in handicap hurdle over same C&D (good to soft) 23 days ago. Returns to longer trip now and holds solid claims.
Off the mark at Fontwell (17.7f) in September and improved again when second of 15 in handicap hurdle at Exeter (18.5f) last month. Unsuited by emphasis on speed at Fakenham latest and is one for shortlist.
Newton Abbot winner in September who returned to form when respectable third of 15 in handicap hurdle at Exeter (18.5f, good to soft, 20/1) 30 days ago. 1 lb lower now and warrants respect.
Operating below his best at present, including in first-time blinkers at Exeter latest, but is now 9 lb below his last winning mark and has the assistance of a promising claimer. Enters calculations.
Modest maiden hurdler who failed to improve on switch to handicaps in recent months. Hard to fancy.
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Forecasts
Imperial Jade (5/2), Catboy (3/1), Sassified (5/1), Ryder's Rock (8/1), Prairie Diamond (8/1), Red Windsor (12/1), African Lady (12/1), Kentford Mallard (20/1), Too Sharp (25/1), The Punt (25/1)
IMPERIAL JADE has dropped to a handy mark and made a pleasing reappearance at Chepstow last month. She gets the nod. Catboy and Sassified rate the principal dangers.