With the entire 20-horse field likely to be separated by just five or six pounds, this will be more like a lower-level Graded race than a Listed Handicap. As such, in my Novices Handicap Chase tips I’m inclined to look towards the top of the weights for a horse who could be a cut above handicap company, and there are a couple of runners who tickle my fancy.





Deyrann De Carjac was only beaten two-lengths in the Dipper, despite a poor round of jumping, and can currently be found at a tempting each-way price. However, the one who really captures my imagination is HOLD THE NOTE.





Having suffered a terrible slice of luck when going well at Kempton, Mick Channon’s six-year-old pushed the classy Two For Gold all the way to the line in a Grade Two at Warwick. Channon and owner, Tim Radford won this with Mister Whitaker in 2018, and Hold The Note should be a massive player dropping back down in distance.