Michael John Hrycko Novices' Limited Handicap Chase (GBB Race)

Bookended his novice campaign over hurdles with victories at Ayr and perfect start in this sphere when landing 5-runner handicap chase at Wetherby during the autumn. Checked out rather tamely at Cheltenham next time and fell heavily 3 out at Newbury last month (was making headway). This is easier.

Fairly useful hurdler who has come to chasing quite late but ran close to his best recent hurdles form when third of 5 in handicap chase at Ayr in November, warming to his task jumping-wise. Found step up to 19.9f against him at Huntingdon so better expected here with cheekpieces added.

Fair hurdler who got off the mark in maiden company in March. Had wind op/off 8 months before a good second in a Carlisle novice chase and he landed the odds with the minimum of fuss at Ayr on Thursday. Huge player if allowed to take his chance.

Bagged back-to-back 17f Carlisle handicap hurdles in November before posting a solid sixth in 2m Newbury Listed hurdle. Bred for chasing and matched that form at the first attempt over the larger obstacles when second 3 weeks ago. May well be capable of better.

Pair of 17f Sedgefield hurdle wins under Brian Hughes last winter and with his reappearance second under his belt, he matched that form when third of 5 on return to the larger obstacles at Wetherby in November. Needs to build on that.

Improved form when winning maiden hurdle at Ayr in March 2023. After 20-month absence (had wind op), shaped as if retaining plenty of ability when runner-up back at Ayr on chasing debut in October. 3 lb out of the weights. Engaged 2.57 Musselburgh Friday.

Lightly-raced hurdler who following a further 16 months off, shaped as if retaining his ability when fourth in a Kelso maiden in March. Made a bold bid to land a touch when collared close home at Hexham but well held at Carlisle since. Out of the weights for chase debut.