Oldrik has a rating of 138 over timber but we're not sure that either he, or the mare Bosamcliff who has won on the Flat and over hurdles, has the size or scope to forge a successful career over fences. It remains to be seen how Fiftyonefiftyone's Lingfield mishap has affected his confidence, while Petrosian's limitations have already been exposed which leaves GIORGIO QUERCUS as the selection. His fitness has to be taken on trust after more than 18 months on the sidelines but Nicky Henderson rarely sends his charges to the track unprepared and he looked a decent prospect when last seen.
Fiftyonefiftyone (IRE) 8-1 (11-0) Took keen hold, tracked clear leader, closed 5th, brought down 7th, in a race won by Mohayer (10-11) at Lingfield 2m beg chs (4) hvy in Nov, 4 ran.
Giorgio Quercus (FR) 7-4fav (11-8) Tracked leaders, outpaced after 4 out, soon ridden, stayed on under pressure to go 2nd last, no chance with winner, 2nd of 4, 15l behind Apartman (10-12) at Ayr 2m 4yo nov hdl (3) gd in Apr '09.
Oldrik (GER) 8-1 (11-0) Held up in rear, headway after 3 out, soon chasing leaders, hit next, kept on well, 5th of 11, 9l behind Tocca Ferro (10-2) at Ascot 2m Listed hcp hdl (1) gd in Oct.
Petrosian 20-1 (10-8) Tracked leader, jumped left 2nd, weakened after 5 out, tailed off, 4th of 6, 44l behind Sway (9-11) at Ludlow 2m beg chs (4) gs in Nov.
Bosamcliff (IRE) 20-1 (11-0) Tracked leading pair, chased wnner 4th, well held from 3 out, no chance when went right last, 2nd of 4, 8l behind Easter Legend (11-6) at Wincanton 2m 5f mares nov chs (4) gs in Nov.
