Empty the piggy bank and lump on Hot Shots (2.10) in today's showpiece at Sandown, the two-mile £50,000 Sunderlands Imperial Cup.

Unfortunately, plenty of other punters are going to have the same idea and Hot Shots is not going to be especially good value, considering the fierce competition he faces in the 24-runner cavalry charge.

Even though the starting price may prove a little disappointing, Hot Shots will never get a better opportunity to exploit the ratings' system.

Mark Pitman's gelding is currently rated 148 over fences, whereas his hurdles' mark is a mere 120. Connections took advantage of this anomaly by taking the selection to Wincanton 48 hours ago, where for the first time this season he ran over hurdles and won without jockey Timmy Murphy having to move a muscle.

Admittedly that was a far less strenuous examination than the one he now faces, however Hot Shots couldn't do any more than win in a canter, and it did at least indicate his complete well-being by recording such a comprehensive victory.

Prior to that success, the nine-year-old had been mixing it, and holding his own, against some really top-flight chasers including Isio, plus Azertyuiop, neither of whom need any introduction to National Hunt devotees.

Other criteria essential for Hot Shots to perform to his maximum include quickish ground, a right-handed track, plus a strong end-to-end gallop.

On this occasion all are 100 per cent assured, which just leaves a little required luck in running, not too big an ask with the sublimely-talented Timmy Murphy in the saddle.

* Mi Odds seeks to continue his terrific form in the Littlewoods Bet Direct Lincoln Trial at Wolverhampton.

Mi Odds slammed Countrywide Flyer on his last visit to Dunstall Park in January.

Get more on racing at our Racing North site.