TimeformBlog

Big Zeb finished out of the first 2 only once since falling in this in 2009, making amends in 2010, and finding only Sizing Europe too good 12 months ago. Hard to see him not being involved.

Finian's Rainbow is a bold-jumping front runner who is 5 from 7 over fences, and travelled best in 17f Grade 1 at Ascot in January until overhauled close home. High cruising speed a big asset here, but can finish weakly.

Gauvain landed a valuable C&D event for second successive season on return, but has failed to complete on 2 of last 4 starts. Headgear back on, but others still readily preferred.

I'm So Lucky won the Celebration Chase at Sandown in 2010, and not discredited on both chase starts this season, 8¾ lengths to Sprinter Sacre at Newbury last time. Will play no more than a minor role here.

Kauto Stone followed Grade 2 win at Down Royal (2½m) with a clear second to Sizing Europe in Tingle Creek. Possible to forgive Ascot flop latest and this only his fourth run for Paul Nicholls. Place claims.

Realt Dubh finished third in the 2011 Arkle, and took Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse in April. Not seen since chasing home Captain Chris at Punchestown in early-May, however, and will do well to take this without a prep run.

Sizing Europe lowered colours of Big Zeb in this contest last year, and has looked as good as ever this season, easily landing Tingle Creek before beating Big Zeb again at Punchestown last month. The one to beat.

Wishfull Thinking was hugely progressive last season, winning at both Aintree and Punchestown festivals. Disappointing this time round, and has questions to answer at present.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. Big Zeb
2. Sizing Europe
3. Kauto Stone

Timeform View: With doubts over Finian's Rainbow's ability to get up the hill this could come down to last year's 1-2 Sizing Europe and Big Zeb. The former is the one to beat again, but the betting does very much reflect that and more value is to be had by backing Big Zeb each-way given it's very difficult to see him out of the first 3. Kauto Stone could take third.

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