Timeform Notebook: Get the Champagne ready

The novices' hurdle won by Vaniteux at Sandown appealed as an above-average race of its type and the form could work out well. Vaniteux and Vibrato Valtat, representing the powerful yards of Henderson and Nicholls respectively, fought out the finish but the third-placed horse, Champagne At Tara, produced an eye-catching effort and could prove to be useful.  

The Jonjo O'Neill-trained Champagne At Tara was making his hurdling debut at Sandown and he made a highly-encouraging introduction, travelling strongly and looking a big threat as he made headway on the bridle approaching the second-last flight. Champagne At Tara couldn't quite sustain the effort, eventually finishing six lengths behind the leading pair, but he was by no means given a hard time in the closing stages and looks the type to improve considerably with experience.

It may have been Champagne At Tara's hurdling bow but it was not the first time that the four-year-old had shown ability on the racecourse. A winner on his bumper debut at Newton Abbot, Champagne At Tara ran well upped in grade at Cheltenham, finishing fourth behind Red Sherlock in a traditionally-strong contest. 

Significantly, Champagne At Tara impressed in the paddock as well as on the course at Cheltenham, looking as if he possesses the size and scope to make an impact over obstacles. Saturday's encouraging introduction further bolstered that impression and he looks sure to progress markedly, especially when stepped up in trip.

Timeform Notebook:

Whisper was a well-backed favourite at Sandown on Saturday but appeared to be beaten on merit, finding a pair of well-handicapped and in-form rivals too strong. Whisper didn't have any excuses but he still ran creditably, running right up to his best, and it is worth emphasising that he has yet to run a bad race. He possesses the physique of a chaser and will be of serious interest if sent over fences.

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 - Will continue to run well 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.
Champagne At Tara - Shaped well on hurdling debut under considerate ride. Sure to progress.

*calls cost 10p a minute from UK landlines. Mobiles vary.