Could this be Gordon Elliott's year in valuable Grade 3 handicap chase? Key quotes and analysis

Gordon Elliott is seeking to win this tricky handicap chase for the first time and has a standout chance with Lightkeeper, who is in the form of his life after winning his last two races. 

Most recently the seven-year-old took a novice handicap chase by eight lengths, with the runner-up winning a Listed mares' handicap chase next time. A 7lb rise may not be enough to stop Lightkeeper, who will find the drying ground to his liking. 

Last year’s winner Lets Go Champ returns to the scene of his most valuable victory off an 8lb higher mark. He has had a solid run of form this season, often being prominent before fading towards the business end. He will be suited by the ground but could be rated to the peak of his ability.

Must Be Obeyed chased home Lets Go Champ in this race last year, but her form has dipped since and she is rated 3lb lower this time. She would be a threat if first-time cheekpieces spark some life back into her.

James Du Berlais has become a regular in this type of race, often flattering to deceive. That familiar pattern played out again in the Topham at Aintree, where he looked a major player jumping the last but faded to finish nine and a half lengths back in fifth.

He has been dropped 2lb and is on his lowest mark since February last year. However, he has been beaten in handicaps off lower ratings and it is worth noting that his sole win over fences came in a beginners' chase more than two years ago. Backing him has long been an expensive pastime.

What they say

Philip Dempsey, trainer of Fighting Fit
He’s in good form. He’s coming back from a bit of a break but has run well fresh before.

Mouse Morris, trainer of Indiana Jones
It’s his first run since February and he'll probably need it. His mark is a bit high for what he's done.

John McConnell, trainer of Seddon
He came out of Cheltenham well. We’re hoping they put a good bit of water on and there’s plenty of juice in the ground. He’ll be competitive if he runs a similar race to the one he did at Cheltenham. We’re very happy with him.

Emmet Mullins, trainer of So Scottish
He’s always promised plenty but so far has failed to deliver. We're claiming off him here and hopefully we might see a better performance. He takes his racing well and is in great form.

Tom Gibney, trainer of Must Be Obeyed
She ran well in this race last year, so we’re giving it another go. It's hard to tell with her but she seems to be in the same form as this time last year. She's versatile as to ground.

John Ryan, trainer of Grange Walk
I'm delighted with his mark and he’s going there with a real sporting chance. The better the ground the better his chance.

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