A particularly ordinary handicap hurdle in which the well-handicapped MARREL was able to return to winning ways, improving on his Hereford fourth from four days previously and appreciating the positive tactics. Taken to the front with just under a circuit to go, he had plenty to worry about turning in, with El Corredor, Westernmost and Hi Fi all snapping at his heels, and mistakes at each of the last two hurdles did not boost his chance, but he galloped on resolutely and was always holding them afterthe last. It will be interesting to see if he is turned out quickly once more, in a bid to defy a penalty.

Handicap debutant El Corredor excelled himself in second, confirming the promise of his recent Folkestone sixth behind Tarlac. He was given a confident ride by Poste and had made headway into second before the turn-in, but was unable to get the better of Marrel despite the hefty weight concession. He will find a race if going on from this, off what is a decent-looking mark.

Hi Fi offered a little more on this return to hurdles, but quickly backtracked in the straight and remains below a winning level at present. Karoo often spoils his chance by racing keenly, but he was not too bad on this occasion and saw his race out well enough, looking outpaced from half a mile out. He may improve for a switch to fences. Favourite Sarin travelled strongly on this handicap debut, but found disappointingly little and looks one to be wary of in future, while French import Idian Mix continues to disappoint, the first-time visor failing to inject any life into him.

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