I think that after some decent rainfall, the Soft Going changes the dynamic of this race entirely.

 

I'd have concerns about the Going and the trip in these conditions for both Sidi Ismael who is also up 9lbs and Powerstone Park with stamina and form in soft to prove and can leave them alone at the prices.

 

Eclair Mag will be a big danger, it's a winner here at 3 miles staying on and has some form on heavy Going.  The trip though is a bit of an unknown and it just misses out as being a selection but will be a handy reserve and one for a TRicast Perm if you want to try one with the 2 final selections. Sharp Response for Sue Smith, always a Trainer to fear here and in this type of race is well handicapped on some old form and ran recently after a break of 725 days, it would have needed to come on considerably for that run, it may well have but I'll watch it with interest for more signs of running in to some form today. 

 

If you wanted a small bet on something at bigger odds the best option may be Who's In The Box, a Course and Distance winner in 2020, is carrying 8lbs more than that run and seemingly out of form since but one who could outrun the Odds.

 

My pair against the field though are THE LATE LEGEND who was runner up at Exeter over 3 miles and 6 furlongs last time in a race we earmarked as a probable barometer for a lot of Regional Nationals. It's got a win at 3 miles 2 furlongs and on soft Going and it will be very disappointing if it's not right in contention here. I can't split it and CASH TO ASH who has placed runs over 3 miles and 4 miles, handles soft and heavy too and a solid and consistent performer who deserves to pick up a race off this type and although not a handicap blot off 122 by any means should be in with every chance off that mark.