The Trevor Hemmings-owned Gunner Jack is an interesting newcomer and is fancied to have enough class to get off the mark at the first time of asking; possibly with the most to fear from The Cleaner, Monica Rose and Bow School. The last named represents one of the top yards in the north and is respected for that reason alone. His pedigree is not outstanding but Howard Johnson is more than capable of getting one ready first time out. Monica Rose is a half-sister to Marmaduke Jinks, who won on his debut for Mary Reveley several years ago. The betting market will be a good gauge as to whether this daughter of Defacto is expected to repeat the feat today. The Cleaner makes the most appeal from those with experience and should be sharper for his run at Sedgefield. However, that form has taken a knock since and it remains to be seen how reliable it will turn out to be. Therefore, it may be prudent to turn the spotlight on Gunner Jack, who swapped hands for 48,000 euros at the Tattersalls sales as a three-year-old. Nicky Richards has done well with similar types this season and this son of Gunner B looks an ideal type (on paper) to know what is required at the first time of asking.
Bow School (IRE) New Frontier gelding out of an unraced mare.
Darazari Bay (IRE) Darazari gelding, half-brother to winning chaser Commanche Quest.
Gunner Jack Gunner B gelding out of winning jumper Wayuphill.
Northern Stars (IRE) Fourstars Allstar gelding, half-brother to winners on the Flat and over jumps.
Young Smokey (IRE) 12-1 (11-5) With leaders until lost place over 3f out, 6th of 12, 27l behind Wind Instrument (11-5) at Wetherby 1m 6f nhf (5) hvy in Jan.
Monica Rose Defacto mare, half sister hurdles/bumper winner Marmaduke Jinks.
High Moor Vitus gelding out of a mare who finished tailed off in a couple of bumpers.
The Gleaner 25-1 (10-4) In touch, ridden over 3f out, kept on same pace final furlong, 3rd of 13, 12l behind Stagecoach Opal (10-8) at Sedgefield 2m 1f mdn nhf (6) sft in Feb.
