Stable favourite Lastbutnotleast chases a hat-trick for McCain

3.00 Doncaster

BetBright Mares' Novices' Hurdle | Listed | 3m½f | 4yo+ | ITV/ATR

Lastbutnotleast has proved worth the wait, making an immediate impression over hurdles despite only having her first start in that sphere in December.

The seven-year-old has run just four times under rules and is unbeaten in two outings over hurdles, most recently when making all to score by seven lengths at Carlisle last month.

Trained by Donald McCain, Lastbutnotleast is already a firm favourite in the yard as she was the last horse purchased by McCain's late father Ginger and carries the famous Red Rum colours.

McCain said: "She's a grand mare and has been crying out for three miles and we're looking forward to stepping her up in trip."

Happy Diva leads the way on official ratings and was runner-up in the Grade 2 Jane Seymour Mares' Novices' Hurdle at Sandown last time out.

The six-year-old was also fourth in a Grade 2 at Town Moor in January, and trainer Kerry Lee said: "She's in good form and this race has been the target for some time. She started maturing around Christmas and has really improved now she's grown up."

Naranja has only had the one run over hurdles, finishing third at Lingfield in January, and trainer Jamie Snowden said: "She's in good form at home. She showed potential on her first time over hurdles and this step up in class should suit her. It's a very competitive race but we go there with a good chance."

Taws was a thorough stayer on the Flat for Rod Millman and this will be her third start over hurdles, having finished runner-up to the smart Finian's Oscar at Exeter last time out.

Trainer David Pipe said: "She has a bit to find on ratings but the step up in trip should suit."

Braventara and Avithos complete the field of six.