Timeform Notebook: Bet without Fear!

Famousandfearless has yet to make an impact under Rules, but that could be about to change as, following three quick runs in novice hurdles, he looks set to contest handicaps.

Famousandfearless was sent off as an odds-on favourite on his Bumper debut at Wetherby last season but shaped as if amiss, stopping quickly having been keen in the early stages. Sent back to the same venue for his hurdling bow, Famousandfearless was once again strong in the market, indicating that he is held in some regard by connections, and he shaped better than the bare result, finishing a never-threatening fourth under considerate handling.

Turned out quickly at Taunton, Famousandfearless was notably weaker in the market than had previously been the case and he was by no means given a hard time as he came home down the field. Famousandfearless shaped similarly at Taunton again last week but, significantly, that run means that he is now eligible for a handicap mark and there is good reason to expect better in that sphere from what is sure to be a lenient opening mark.

Having shown enough ability to win a Point, it is significant that a horse hailing from a yard as shrewd as the Pipe's was sent off so short on his Rules debut. The strong suspicion is that Famousandfearless is a lot more talented than he has been able to show on the track, making him an extremely interesting handicap prospect. 

Timeform Jumps Notebook:

It was a successful week for the Notebook as Ifandbutwhynot (8/1) won a competitive-looking renewal of the Gerry Fielden under an excellent front-running ride. Usually held-up in the early stages, Ifandbutwhynot was allowed to dictate a steady pace and used his speed to great effect, quickening things in the straight to win by a comfortable four and a half lengths. There was certainly an opportunistic element about the performance, though, and he may find things more difficult from a higher mark in future. With that in mind we will remove him from the Notebook, his work for us done.

Shutthefrontdoor - Built on debut promise and enhanced reputation despite losing at Cheltenham. Remains likely to make into a smart novice.
Straidnahanna - Has twice shaped well in strong novice events.
Merlin's Wish - Unexposed staying handicap chaser who should win again.
Whisper - Remains well treated over hurdles but has the physique to take well to chasing.
Close House - Once again shaped as if three miles was too far; will be suited by return to shorter.  
Many Clouds - Genuine type that has taken well to chasing, already showing improved form. 
Famousandfearless - Seemingly well regarded and type to improve for switch to handicaps.

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