MA WANG DES BOIS

Trainer: Emma Lavelle

Although he failed to win in two runs in bumpers, the Beaumec de Houelle gelding showed more than enough to suggest that he will win races for Emma Lavelle, who looks to have a lovely bunch of youngsters for the upcoming campaign. Runner-up at Hereford, he travelled noticeably well, then finished behind the same rival in what could turn out to be a strong race at Kempton. A huge five-year-old, he should improve for meeting an obstacle.

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PRESLEY

Trainer: Dan Skelton

Another who failed to win in two runs in bumpers, he came from off the pace when third behind the promising mare Princess Day (won again next time) before chasing home Merry Away (4^th in the Grade 2 at Aintree next time) in another potentially informative bumper at Warwick. A five-year-old by Harzand who possesses plenty of size and scope for jumping, he looks a smashing long-term prospect for Dan Skelton, who has a plethora of young talent to unleash this autumn.

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PRIDE HILL

Trainer: Olly Murphy

Finished more than 10 lengths behind Presley when fourth on debut at Warwick, he came from off the pace whilst the front three were prominently positioned throughout, so his effort can be marked up. A five-year-old by Jukebox Jury, he is out of a half-sister to strong stayer Tarablaze, so could flourish as he goes up in distance over hurdles.

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RIVER KWAI

Trainer: Paul Nicholls

In the space of 17 days during the spring, Paul Nicholls introduced a trio of smart-looking bumper winners, with Stick To The Board and Order On Time both impressing at Chepstow. That pairing boasted Irish Point-to-Point form, whilst this imposing son of No Risk At All made a winning racecourse debut in an Exeter bumper. Despite showing signs of greenness, the five-year-old readily drew clear in the closing stages, leaving the impression that there is plenty to come as he steps up in distance as a novice hurdler.

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ROCCONTIER

Trainer: Nicky Henderson

Planters Punch was a three-time winner in ‘junior’ National Hunt hurdle races for Nicky Henderson last season, whilst Feel Gut was another to catch the attention of plenty when successful at Warwick. Winners of such races retain their novice status the following season and this Frontiersman four-year-old is another who won in that division. Whilst such races are often quite weak, visually he really left a lasting impression, drawing right away to mark himself down as a youngster full of promise. He won’t be penalised when reappearing and should win again before being upped in class.