Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Sandown 2m4f Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) (5yo+) horse racing event.
After his superb victory in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase (Grade 1), Kitzbuhel heads the market here. Earlier this season he also won a Beginners’ Chase at Punchestown, meaning he is a perfect two from two over fences.
Jimmy Du Seuil won a Beginners’ Chase at Fairyhouse, but in his first Grade 1 attempt he finished last in the Faugheen Novice Chase at Limerick. He does have a Cheltenham Festival success to his name, having landed the Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle, but over fences he still has to prove his class.
Six year old Kala Conti switched to chasing this season and has won two races for mares at Cork, most recently taking a Novice Chase (Grade 2). She looks capable of getting involved at a high level.
Sixmilebridge also began the campaign with a win, landing a Beginners’ Chase at Ayr in November. He then brushed aside the favourite in a Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham. That was not a graded contest, but it did nothing to diminish his potential.
Mambonumberfive has won all three of his starts this season, including the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) at Kempton. The distance is new to him, but he appears to have plenty in reserve.
Wind surgery did not bring immediate improvement for Miami Magic. He finished last on his chasing debut, then ran third, before finally getting his head in front in a Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day. He tends to take time to find form and does not yet look an ideal candidate for victory at this level.
Steel Ally is also unbeaten over fences this season, with two wins from two starts. After success in a Graduation Chase at Carlisle, he followed up with an authoritative display in the Howden Noel Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) at Ascot. He is our selection to come out on top.
