

A match race begins the programme with two smart performers so this looks a fascinating event. Six-year-old JERIKO DU REPONET (1) was a G2 novice hurdle winner in 2024 and ended last season with a 4.25L success attempting a 4600m Listed Handicap Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival (Ireland). Provided a promising chase debut when 12L second over 3600m at Kempton three weeks ago. Representing top connections is the one to beat. REGENT'S STROLL (2) will be no easy rival being a previous course winner. Ran 0.5L second attempting the 4000m G1 Mersey Novices Hurdle at Aintree in April and posted a good third making first chase attempt in the 4000m G2 John Francome Novices Chase at Newbury last month. Big chance.

