143:40 Kempton

I am keen to oppose the favourite Usuario Amigo in this race given huge stamina concerns and felt CRACKER STAR (best priced at 3/1) had the potential to make a winning hurdling debut. The son of Cracksman was a smart handicapper for Richard Hughes who ended up rated 74 following a victory at Bath over just shy of 1m4f. 

Harry Derham has reported that he has schooled well and despite apparently needing the run, this track should suit him and he looks the most likely winner in receipt of 6lbs from Model Approach who won a weak contest at Sedgefield earlier this month.

16:00 Kempton

The Paul Nicholls stable form would be a concern for Rubaud in his bid for a repeat success in the race and CASA NO MENTO (best priced at 5/2) is expected to prove the biggest danger to the favourite. The Nigel Twiston-Davies trained mare ended last season with victories at Chepstow and Punchestown including an impressive success in a listed race on her final start. 

Casa No Mento has shown great form when fresh so this 171 day is no concern and the stable remain in great form this season operating at a 27% strike rate in the past two weeks. She can hopefully make it 5/6 over hurdles. 

16:55 Sedgefield

This looks a competitive 0-130 handicap hurdle but preference goes to JARAMILLO (best priced at 6/4) who is unbeaten on both of his starts at Sedgefield. The six-year-old won by 2 ½ lengths off a mark of 109 last season before winning here a month ago off a mark of 107 by 12 lengths. 

Jaramillo finished well beaten back on the AW last time at Kempton but is interesting back at Sedgefield over hurdles despite a 9lb rise from the handicapper. James Bowen retains the ride and he should prove hard to beat back at this track.