A small but very select field for the 2017 Rehearsal Chase, and with eight runners in the line up, the each-way 1-2-3 angle remains just about in place. Venetia Williams took this race last year with Otago Trail (
Bishops Road fourth and
WAKANDA fifth), and she is represented by the mud-lark
Yala Enki. He should relish this test of stamina, and be stronger for his return in the Badger Ales Trophy (pulled up) at Wincanton last month, but his current mark of 150 looks a fraction too high.
Beware The Bear is perhaps the least exposed runner in the race, and this lightly raced second season chaser could be the horse to fear most from a fair mark, whilst the upped in grade 'bullet-proof'
Boric won't go down without a fight. However, it is the 2015 winner Wakanda who is the selection. He predictably struggled last term when in the grip of the handicapper, but he's much better treated now, has conditions firmly in his favour, and posted a pleasing return to action when beaten 7L by As De Mee at Kelso in late October.
- Wakanda
- Beware The Bear
- Yala Enki