TimeformBlog

Mon Parrain was an impressive winner of 3m Sandown handicap on British debut, and excellent second over National fences following month. Disappointing in PP Gold Cup on return, but capable of much better.

Knockara Beau reverted to hurdles last term, winning at Carlisle and fourth in Pertemps Final. Needed return in Fixed Brush event at Haydock, and now 6 lb lower than when a good fourth in this race last year.

Fair Along has been an excellent servant to connections over the years, and ran well when third in the Hennessy last time, but jumping left much to be desired there, and he comes with risks as a chaser.

Shakalakaboomboom improved for switch to fences last season, winning handicaps at Kempton, Taunton and Punchestown. Best form has come on right-handed tracks, however, and looked ill-at-ease on both starts here.

Swincombe Rock made an impressive start over fences when winning at Perth and Huntingdon last autumn. Good second on reappearance, and out of weights over inadequate trip in PP Gold Cup, so should fare better here.

Mostly Bob won 3m novice handicap chase at Doncaster in January. Failed to complete on next 2 starts, and was again rather disappointing when a well-beaten fifth behind Cappa Bleu at Haydock last month.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Mon Parrain
2. Knockara Beau
3. Fair Along

Timeform Verdict: Fair Along will be popular after his Hennessy third, but he's far from certain to repeat that effort, and he's opposed with both Mon Parrain, forgiven a lacklustre return here, and last year's fourth Knockara Beau.

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