A run-of-the-mill Plumpton handicap hurdle, but a highly progressive winner in the massive ALPH. Possibly unlucky at Sandown after winning at Fakenham on only his fourth start over hurdles (he also ran once on the Flat, which rules him out of EBF novices), the nine-year-old went readily to the front going to the second-last and drew away. He could have plenty more improvement in him, and connections have high hopes of him. He is the sort who is likely to be underestimated when he steps up in class and is definitely one to keep on the right side.

The next five finished in a bit of a heap, headed by Polished, who had been given a break following a busy and highly successful time through the summer and early autumn. He is high enough in the handicap and did well in the circumstances, especially as a mistake three out will not have helped.

Ellway Prospect and Hunting Lodge were also bang there on the heels of the placed horses, but Silistra and Amnesty, first and second here three weeks previously, were both well beaten, and the juvenile Vale de Lobo dropped right out to finish last after making headway up the inner down the far side.

*Liam Heard reported that Vale de Lobo was unsuited by the going.

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