1:50 Newbury Tips

Wendigo was just outpointed by Wade Out at Worcester over two and a half miles as both accelerated up the run-in. The result may have been different if Wendigo had kicked on a fraction earlier, as he allowed Wade Out to catch up over the last, and he was given a slight bump by the winner as he hung left after the last, which gave the initiative to Wade Out in the race to the line. Wendigo showed enough to be the winner here.

He came good at Aintree in April when fitted with a hood, and the better ground suited him well. The trainer said he has done very well during the summer and is in great form at home. The trainer has always thought the world of him.

The 7yo was decent over hurdles, and he returned from a seven-month break with a nice 3L handicap win at the start of the month on his chase debut, earning a high RPR rating. He can take a step forward, and a similar level of form in this Grade 2 novice chase would make him a big player.

Made a pleasing chasing debut when runner-up in a field of 14, going second up the Cheltenham hill at the end of last month. This flatter track may suit more, and should be staying on at the end here.

King of Kingsfield is the outsider in this race after pulling up at Cheltenham in October over 16 furlongs, which is not his trip. This race is full of pretenders, any of whom could step up to another level, but King of Kingsfield has won 3 of 5 starts over fences and is now over a suitable distance.