There are a couple of exemplary handicap projects on the card, the first Prasina Russata (14:50) from the David Pipe yard. A point runner-up and related to some smart chasers, Prasina Russata was sent off favourite for a bumper on his Rules debut but seemed too inexperienced. Off nearly two years after that, he's offered promise in novice hurdles without suggesting he's yet showed all he can. This marked step up in trip for his handicap debut, which comes after another two-month break, suggests that the time is now for Prasina Russata to belatedly deliver on his earlier promise.
In the following handicap chase (15:20), it looks as though Miss Tenacious has been treated dismissively for a flop here on Boxing Day. That isn't justified on balance, as her overall record over fences at this course is superb (unbeaten in three previous starts) and her profile was just becoming progressive. It's no surprise that a strong-travelling front runner like Miss Tenacious performs well here, while her hurdles form proves that she does stay this far. That last run is of course a concern, as is her tendency to throw in a poor jump, but neither is enough to put us off Miss Tenacious at prices around 6.05/1.
The 15:50 is too difficult, and likeliest winner Fascino Rustico too short, but we don't need to look far past for our final bet. Dorry K (16:20) is made in the image of so many Jim Best sends into handicaps: an accomplished handicapper on the Flat, three quiet runs in maidens (the first two with Brian Rothwell in this case) followed by a win on handicap debut. Dorry K didn't come with the associated gamble, winning at a BSP of 26.0 at Warwick last week, but she escapes unpenalised for that success and has plenty more to come if her Flat form is anything to go by. It's a surprise not to see her even shorter than 3.929/10.
Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Wincanton
Back Prasina Russata @ 4.03/1 in the 14:50
Back Miss Tenacious @ 6.25/1 in the 15:20
Back Dorry K @ 3.929/10 in the 16:20