4th-Nov-2023

I think that Boothill should be clear favourite here.

He was a high-class novice chaser last season, he competed in some of the best two-mile novice chases, and he acquitted himself well.  He finished second to Jonbon in the Grade 1 Henry VIII Chase at Sandown on Tingle Creek day, and he won the Grade 2 Wayward Lad Chase at Kempton over Christmas.

He was beaten in his last two runs last season, but he only gave best to Tommy’s Oscar in the Grade 2 Lightning Chase at Doncaster, a 153-rated rival (who is now rated 157) to whom he was conceding 5lb, and the extended two and a half miles of the Grade 2 Pendil Chase at Kempton in February probably stretched him.

He does race over two miles as if he will be better over further, but he probably doesn’t quite get two and a half, so this stiff two miles and one furlong should suit him well.  He goes well at Ascot, he is one for one over fences there, over today’s course and distance, and he ran well in a good race on his only run over hurdles there, and he goes well on soft ground.  Also, he goes well fresh, and he looks well handicapped on a mark of 149.  He should appreciate racing in handicap company.

Saint Segal is the main danger in my book, but he has shortened up now, and I am happy to rely on Boothill.

BOOTHILL WON (ADV 4/1, SP 7/2)