In a feature-race clash of contrasting fortunes, eight-year-old Beau Quali looks to break his luckless run as he faces stiff opposition in the Doncaster Bluebell Wood Recycle Your Christmas Tree Handicap Hurdle. The Neil Mulholland-trained veteran ended last season on a high, notching back-to-back successes at Newbury and Chepstow, but has struggled since, including a disappointing return from a handicap attempt in October.
His rivals are equally impressive, with George's Lad, who secured victory over the same course and distance just three months ago, looking to build on his recent form. The six-year-old has run well in defeat at Fontwell and Ascot this season, and can be forgiven for his earlier mistakes. Beau Quali, meanwhile, has been struggling for consistency, finishing runner-up on six of his nine starts so far.
Sean O'Connor's 7lb claim could prove crucial in the running, but it may not be enough to topple George's Lad, who is well-suited to this particular test. The winner of their previous meeting will be looking to follow up at Doncaster, where he excelled over this exact distance.
The two-horse battle has all the makings of a thrilling contest, with the outcome hanging precariously in the balance. Can Beau Quali finally turn his form around, or will George's Lad prove too strong?
His rivals are equally impressive, with George's Lad, who secured victory over the same course and distance just three months ago, looking to build on his recent form. The six-year-old has run well in defeat at Fontwell and Ascot this season, and can be forgiven for his earlier mistakes. Beau Quali, meanwhile, has been struggling for consistency, finishing runner-up on six of his nine starts so far.
Sean O'Connor's 7lb claim could prove crucial in the running, but it may not be enough to topple George's Lad, who is well-suited to this particular test. The winner of their previous meeting will be looking to follow up at Doncaster, where he excelled over this exact distance.
The two-horse battle has all the makings of a thrilling contest, with the outcome hanging precariously in the balance. Can Beau Quali finally turn his form around, or will George's Lad prove too strong?