Captain Conan heads Sandown seven
Captain Conan and Tap Night are among the seven entries for the feature novice chase at Sandown this weekend.
Last Updated: 29/01/13 5:06pm
That left Nicky Henderson's Captain Conan as the headline act in the race better known as the Scilly Isles Novices' Chase, having already won at Grade One level.
In any other yard he would be a massive hope for the Arkle but with Simonsig also hailing from Seven Barrows, Henderson will be keen to see if the two-and-a-half-mile trip suits just as well.
Paul Nicholls has entered Rebel Rebellion rather than Unioniste, who was due to tackle Captain Conan in a novice chase which was subsequently scrapped due to a lack of runners.
Venetia Williams is enjoying a great season and her Houblon Des Obeaux has shown a smart level of form this season.
Changing Times is progressing for Nigel Twiston-Davies, while Lucinda Russell has put in the smart Tap Night, who also holds two entries at Musselburgh on Sunday.
Top Smart and Third Intention complete the list.
Russell said that Tap Night's Sandown entry at this stage was precautionary with the Scottish Future Champion Novices' Chase over two and a half miles the preferred option.
"He'll definitely run this weekend," said Russell. "I'm sure we'll look at running in the two-and-a-half-mile race just to see if he stays.
"Both the Musselburgh races look hot but we need to get him out, he's only had the one run over fences and he needs experience.
"The Sandown entry is just something to fall back on."