12.25pm Ascot

Excello

He was actually third in this race last season before going on to post an excellent performance to beat Solo in a Graduation Chase here. His form tailed off after that, albeit in high class handicap chases, and the boss has decided to go back to novice hurdling with him. On pure ability, he probably looks the one to beat in here but there are some promising, lightly-raced horses in this, so this could be tough.

2.45pm Ascot

Lucky Place

He may have a bit to find ratings-wise in this Grade 2, but we think this 5yo has more to give this season. He mixed it with some very good novices last season, including Golden Ace, who he meets again here, before finishing a good fourth in the Coral Cup. He clearly has a tough task at these weights, as I said, but I’m hopeful of a good show.

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