TimeformBlog

West With The Wind progressed extremely well over fences last summer, completing a hat-trick of C&D wins off a 5 lb lower mark. Jumping failed the test in the Arkle, but proved well-being on Flat in recent weeks.

Echo Bob is a consistent hurdler/chaser who arrives here at the top of his game following 2 excellent efforts from front in Irish minor events over fences this summer. Makes British debut from a fair mark.

Grand Lahou improved for Tim Vaughan last season, landing brace of handicap chases at up to 19f. Form has been decidedly patchy, though, and faces plenty of competition for the lead despite small field.

Al Qeddaaf has taken well to chasing, jumping fluently on the whole when winning first 2 starts, and only just touched off at Perth last month back at 2m. Figures on a fair mark back in a handicap.

Rio Gael won 4 times over hurdles last season and back on the scoreboard over fences in May. Disgraced himself when refusing to race over hurdles last month, and again let down by attitude last time.

Mibleu is a strong traveller who went through with his effort for a change when winning at Newton Abbot 16 days ago. Plenty of pace here will suit, but no banker to string good runs together.

Piment d'Estruval is a maiden over hurdles but improved since sent chasing by present yard, winning twice in spring and then again at Hereford last week. More required here from out the weights.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. West With The Wind
2. Echo Bob
3. Al Qedaaf

Timeform's View: West With The Wind boasts a very good strike rate over fences and, having proved his well-being on the Flat in recent weeks, looks the one to be with. Irish raider Echo Bob and Al Qeddaaf are potential dangers.

For more racing betting articles, go to http://betting.betfair.com/horse-racing/