Mick Walsh Open Ditch Novices' Handicap Chase

Lightly-raced maiden who was well held switched to handicaps last 2 starts. Headgear applied now sent chasing (placed on last of 4 starts in Irish points).

Back to somewhere near best (following a wind operation) when second of 5 in handicap chase at Doncaster (20.5f, good) 34 days ago. Races off same mark here so needs considering.

Lightly-raced maiden who cut little ice switched to handicaps this season. Has at least dropped to a workable mark now chasing (made frame sole outing in Irish points).

On a losing run but showed he retains ability when returning from wind surgery to finish second at Ayr (20.5f). Showed little on belated chase bow here 12 days ago, however.

Not disgraced over hurdles here last time but now 4 years since his last win and it's been 3 years since his last run over fences.

A most fortuitous winner at Newcastle on return (nearly 50 lengths down when left alone 2 out) but no element of luck involved in when scoring there 10 days ago, in command approaching last. Should go well again.