Kelso 4:55 pm

AI Verdict

HOE JOLY SMOKE remains the clear pick, backed by progressive form, a competitive jockey and pedigree. Handmedownastar poses the only credible threat, though his recent dip in form suggests he'll need to regain his best to trouble the leader. Hopeless Dancer, returning after a long layoff, lacks recent evidence to challenge either.

Skelton's gelding has the edge in C+D, with Skelton and Scholfield's pair offering the best chance of a competitive duel. Reed's charge is a long shot at best.