2:05 Perth 24 Apr 2026 3m 6½f (3m 6f 121y) QuinnBet Highland National Handicap Chase (For The Julian Llewellen Palmer Memorial

🚫 Betting Assessment

Race Verdict: Competitive but with a clear standout

Reason for Verdict: The race includes high-quality recent winners and progressive runners capable of success. Given the strength and depth of contenders, a calculated betting approach is recommended rather than an overly speculative one.

📊 Race Quality Rating

Score: 78

Betting Grade: Medium Confidence

Confidence Level: Moderate-High

⭐ Main Contenders

Express SurpriseProgressive

Proven stayer with an excellent recent record, winning three of last four starts. His jumping is reliable, and he looks primed to maintain the winning sequence over this trip.

El GranjeroIn-Form

On a hat-trick after a win at Warwick over 3m5f on good to soft. His stamina and recent form suggest he is difficult to oppose if continuing this run.

Busty BoyConsistent Type

Runner-up here last year and currently in good form. Competitive mark seen as tough but still merits respect with a solid recent campaign.

Breeze Of WindStrong Finisher

Despite a pulled-up run, other recent efforts show solid staying ability. This assured stayer can figure prominently when finding his rhythm.

BrandtReturn to Form

Previous 3m4f chase winner here last year with signs of returning to form lately. Fitness and experience over similar trips give him a chance.

⚠️ Next Best / Dangers

Fever DreamIn-Form

Impressive Warwick victory and could dominate if conditions suit with ground close to good.

StratagemValue Profile

Impressive Sedgefield winner recently but raised 8lb in the handicap. Well handicapped overall and progressive.

UpfordebateUnexposed

Multiple winner this season but unproven over this extended distance. Pacesetting style could be pivotal.

Gringo d’AubrelleMixed Form

Strong hurdle form and lower chase mark; remains a chance if adapting well back to chasing.

❌ Outsiders / Weak Profiles

FortunedefortunataValue Profile

100-1 third at Haydock last time and would need a big repeat to factor here.

Noble BirthReturn to Form

Last seen tailed off in Irish claiming hurdle; faces top weight with questions to answer.

President ScottieMixed Form

Expensive to follow over fences and currently behind others in form; difficult to recommend.

📌 Race Summary

• Highly competitive handicap chase over a strong staying distance.
• Multiple recent winners and strong finishers dominate the main contenders.
• Stamina and jumping reliability will be vital factors.
• Ground conditions could bring Fever Dream and El Granjero into sharper focus.

🏁 Final Verdict

1st Choice: Express Surprise

Main Danger: El Granjero

Each-Way Value: Stratagem

Betting Verdict: Medium Confidence

Reason: Express Surprise’s strong current form and proven jumping make him the most reliable pick. El Granjero, on a hat-trick and staying well, is the main threat. Stratagem offers solid each-way value considering his rapid recent improvement despite an 8lb rise.

📊 Ratings Guide

This guide explains how to interpret the Betting Grade and Confidence Level used in the race analysis.

💰 Betting Grades

🟢 High Confidence: Strong form and clear standout; suitable for stronger bets.

🟡 Medium Confidence: Competitive race; controlled staking advised.

🟠 Medium Risk: Tight field; smaller stakes or value plays preferred.

🔴 Low Confidence: Unpredictable race; minimal stakes or caution advised.

⚫ No Bet: Too risky; best avoided.

🎯 Confidence Levels

🟢 High: Clear selection with strong, reliable form and minimal risks.

🟡 Moderate-High: Strong overall profile with multiple positives; only minor uncertainties prevent top confidence.

🟡 Moderate: Solid pick but with some competition or minor doubts.

🔴 Low: Weak or inconsistent race; difficult to predict.

⚫ Very Low: Highly unpredictable; little trustworthy form.