KELSO 14:25

Non Runners: DAME ROSE (FR). Hurdles: 10. Race Distance Adjustment: +30 yds

Time: 4m 51.2s Closing Sectional: (4.75f): 71.8s (105.6%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 108%, Betfair SP 99.1%

This quartet looked closely matched on paper but the race was rendered one-sided courtesy of a smart effort from a winner who looks back near his best; the race took shape on the run between 3 and 2 out.

CYRUS DARIUS back over timber for the first time since last season's Champion Hurdle, landed this race for the second year running, seemingly putting up his best effort since his novice days; patiently ridden, travelled well, mistake sixth, headway to lead 2 out, clear before last, ridden out; he'd be very well handicapped if reproducing this form back over fences, while there'll be more races for him at short of the top level if kept to this sphere.

BETTER GETALONG (IRE) the sole novice in the field, ran well on form without being able to lay a glove on a smart rival; in touch, outpaced before 2 out, kept on, no match for winner; it's still early days with him over timber and he'll probably prove at his best over even further in time.

CHTI BALKO (FR) strong in the betting, was below form, able to lead but never getting away from his rivals, stepping out of handicap company; led until 2 out, no extra.

KATGARY (FR) ran below form; chased leader, lost place before 2 out.