APTERIX is penalised for winning a handicap chase at Sedgefield earlier in the month but can go in again back in novice company. Lake View Lad ran well in a novices’ handicap at Newcastle on his reappearance and looks the main danger given Road To Gold was well beaten on his chasing bow here last month. The remainder go over the larger obstacles for the first time with Dakota Grey preferred to Lyvius and Clan Legend on hurdling form.
Apterix (FR) 10-3 (11-7) In touch, went 2nd from 5 out, led before 2 out, clear before last, won at Sedgefield 2m 3f hcp (3) gs in Nov beating Blakemount (11-7) by 2l, 9 ran.
Clan Legend 9-2 (11-2) Tracked leader, weakened before 4 out, tailed off and pulled up before 3 out, at Ayr 2m hcp (3) sft in Apr.
Dakota Grey 13-8 (11-6) Led, headed before 2nd, chased winner, ridden 2 out, no impression, 2nd of 8, 9l behind Mister Kit (11-0) at Carlisle 2m 1f (4) gs in Mar.
Lake View Lad (IRE) 4-1 (11-8) Led, headed 4 out, rallied 2 out, every chance last, no extra towards finish, 2nd of 5, 1 1/2l behind Pistol Park (10-9) at Newcastle 2m hcp (3) gs in Nov.
Lyvius 33-1 (11-7) Mid-division, in touch on outside after 5th, effort 3 out, lost place next, weakened before last, 12th of 21, 32l behind Theinval (11-7) at Aintree 2m 4f hcp (1) gs in Apr.
Road To Gold (IRE) 9-2 (11-2) Led, headed after 3rd, lost place from 6 out, last of 3, dist behind Cloudy Dream (11-2) at Carlisle 2m (4) sft in Oct.
