Chepstow hosts a deep renewal of the Grade Two Dragon Bet Persian War Novices' Hurdle at 3.43pm, where progressive duo Cosmic Connection and Lord Byron are set to clash.
The Chris Gordon-trained Cosmic Connection arrives having won three of his four outings over hurdles, dominating the Novices' Championship Final at Sandown when last seen in April. He steps up in grade and distance but is rated a fine prospect for the campaign ahead.
Lord Byron enjoyed a strong novice season, finishing fifth in the Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham before claiming fourth at Aintree. He bettered those efforts when chasing home King Rasko Grey at Punchestown, and fitness should not be an issue after a pipe opener on the flat last month. Plenty with place claims include The Skelton's North Shore and the hat-trick seeking Lock Stock.
Earlier at 3.12pm, unexposed pair Le Beau Madrik and Captain Hugo meet in the Dragon Bet 'Welsh Champion' Hurdle. Dan Skelton's Le Beau Madrik has taken well to hurdles, suffering just one defeat in four starts, and makes appeal on his handicap debut under Harry Skelton. Captain Hugo, a three-time obstacle winner for the Philip Hobbs and Johnson White team, ran with credit when second in the Scottish Hurdle. Doctor Blue, Gibbs Island and Serious Challenge warrant attention too.
The card opens at 1.57pm with the Wasdell Group Novices' Hurdle, where Saint Jeannais bids to make it 2-2 over hurdles for the Nigel and Willy Twiston-Davies yard after a sparkling debut win at Bangor-on-Dee. Hive Runner and Dan Skelton's Dutch Corner, rated 117 after five starts, are also dangerous.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing