the prophet

Unexposed, 5 years old, just two starts over hurdles: a debut win and a runner-up finish next time out. The form looks fine. He comes here fresh after a break since his November run. A fair opening handicap mark. An inexperienced jockey is in the saddle, but he has ridden two winners from six rides for a 33% strike rate, and his 10 lb claim should improve his chances.

Just four starts over hurdles for the 7yo, form 2216. Only beaten 6L when last seen in December and probably not helped by the slow ground. More suitable conditions for this handicap. No match for the winner on his second start, but he was still 2nd of 15 that day, 9L clear of the rest, in what was a £36K contest. Helped by a very good 5 lb claiming apprentice for this handicap, he should be a big player in this £4K contest.

The 7-year-old is progressing nicely, winning 3 from 7 over fences. He loves the better ground and is still on a handy-looking mark. He will be fresh after a twelve-week break. A previous winner over 26f, he should be fine over this 29f trip.

The 7-year-old mare found her form two weeks ago, winning a 15-runner handicap hurdle by 5 lengths with the field quite strung out. There is no reason why she can’t build on that run. She has a higher mark now, but this is a weak-looking contest and top jockey Brian Hughes takes the ride again.