Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices' Chase
 AutoUpdating 150x150 Gif
Grade 1, Sandown 14:35
£100,000 guaranteed, 5yo plus,
2m 4f 10y, Class 1  
Saturday 1st February 2025

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1 Handstands 100/30
2 Jango Baie 10/11F
3 Mark Of Gold 22/1
4 ran Distances: shd, 17l, 1¾l
Time: 5m 23.01s (slow by 21.01s)

Handstands, trained by Ben Pauling and ridden by jockey Ben Jones, clinched a narrow victory over Nicky Henderson's Jango Baie. The Grade 1 contest saw the two promising novices locked in a head-to-head battle, with Handstands prevailing by a nose in a dramatic finish. 

This victory provided a significant morale boost for trainer Ben Pauling, especially after the setback earlier in the week when his novice, The Jukebox Man, suffered a season-ending injury. Pauling expressed his relief and joy following the race, praising both Handstands and Jango Baie for their commendable performances. He noted that despite the disappointment with The Jukebox Man, Handstands has consistently showcased his talent throughout the season. 

Jockey Ben Jones delivered a masterful ride, timing Handstands' challenge to perfection and demonstrating composure under pressure. The pair had previously met over hurdles at Huntingdon last season, where there was little to separate them, setting the stage for this closely contested rematch. 

Looking ahead, Pauling has indicated that Handstands will bypass the Cheltenham Festival, with plans to target the Mildmay Novices' Chase at Aintree in the spring. This strategic decision aims to capitalize on Handstands' current form and ensure he is primed for future successes. 

SureWIn

Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices' Chase
£100,000 guaranteed, 5yo plus, 2m 4f 10y, Class 1
4 ran
Going: Heavy, Soft in places

POS. DIST HORSE AGE TRAINER JOCKEY SP
1    Handstands 6 11-7 Ben Pauling Ben Jones 100/30
2 shd Jango Baie 6 11-7 Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville 10/11F
3 17 Mark Of Gold 8 11-7 Gary & Josh Moore Caoilin Quinn 22/1
4 1¾ Kalif Du Berlais 5 11-3 Paul Nicholls Harry Cobden 11/4

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