Big guns Nicholls and Henderson dominate Scilly entries at Sandown
Monday 30 January 2017 20:37, UK
Paul Nicholls has a strong hand as he looks for a fifth win in the Betfred TV Scilly Isles Novices' Chase at Sandown on Saturday with four of the 12 entries.
The Ditcheat maestro won the Grade One four years in succession between 2006 and 2009, but the last of those successes with Herecomesthetruth was also his last win in the race.
He has entered Politologue, Le Prezien, Frodon and Clan Des Obeaux.
Nicky Henderson is also well stocked with Buveur D'Air and Top Notch having the option.
Anthony Bromley, racing manager for Top Notch's owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, said: "Top Notch has been entered in the Champion Hurdle, but that is just a back up.
"What we are hoping is that he goes and shows he belongs in Grade One company over fences. If that is the case then he won't be going back over hurdles. He'll probably run this weekend."
Amore Alato, Baron Alco, Casse Tete and Hell's Kitchen are also in the mix.
Philip Hobbs' Rock The Kasbah and Nigel Twiston-Davies' Calett Mad have been entered in both the Scilly Isles and the Towton Novices' Chase at Wetherby.
Amore Alato also has the option of a three-mile handicap on the same card. His trainer Johnny Farrelly said: "It all depends on the ground which one he runs in. If the ground is soft he will drop back to two and a half for the Scilly Isles.
"He has been brilliant since Kempton. He ran well enough there and he kept galloping all the way to the line, which was fine.
"He will be fine in which ever race he runs in on Saturday."
