13:00 Clinton Higgins Chartered Accountants Novice Handicap Chase

Race preview

SLIP OF THE TONGUE was beaten long distances when last seen in April but remains a dark horse who should eventually outgrow his rating. Placed third to Teahupoo and Quilixios in a 2021 Grade 2 hurdle, he looked a work in progress last season, is suited by conditions and his rider claims 5lb. He wasn't beaten far in a 2022 Listed course hurdle by today's rival Highland Charge but is 7lb better off. Highland Charge debuts in handicap chases and while rated 8lb higher over hurdles, would ideally prefer a sounder surface. Gracchus De Balme's Listowel form was boosted by Uncle Phil winning the recent Dan Moore but he steps up in distance and hasn't run since September. In-form Kings Halo steps up markedly in grade while Spirit Of Legend contested a hot race last month and drops to handicap company racing from a fair rating. Coqolino was pulled up in testing conditions at Limerick during Christmas but had previously run well at Punchestown, although seems exposed. Cayd Boy is winless from nine chases and was well beaten recently.