Timeform Notebook: Shutthefrontdoor to climb novice ranks?

The novice chase at Aintree on Saturday may have been lacking in numbers - only four went to post - but it could be an informative contest as the eventual winner, Shutthefrontdoor, made a highly satisfactory start to life over fences, winning with more in hand than the winning margin would suggest. 

Shutthefrontdoor was unbeaten in bumpers and he developed into a smart performer over hurdles, his season culminating with a good fourth in the Pertemps Final at the Cheltenham Festival. Prior to that effort at the Festival, Shutthefrontdoor had looked progressive, rattling up a hat-trick of wins, often appearing to win with a bit up his sleeve, and you got the impression that he hadn't reached the limit of his potential. 

The drop back in trip to two and a half miles on Saturday may not have been ideal for a horse that has proven thoroughly effective over three miles, but Shutthefrontdoor was always travelling powerfully and was comfortably the last off the bridle, his jockey not having to shake him up until they approached the final fence. Shutthefrontdoor, who had jumped assuredly in the main, always looked as if he was going to reel in the front-running Beeves, and McCoy didn't have to go for everything as his mount got up close home to win in cosy fashion.

The sound-jumping Shutthefrontdoor looks certain to win more races over fences, with the potential return to three miles giving him plenty of options, and he may surprise a few people with how far he can go in this sphere. The RSA Chase would by no means be a fanciful option for Shutthefrontdoor and it is possible that he may go under the radar due to his best form having been achieved in handicaps rather than graded races last term. It might be interesting to note that African Gold and Wonderful Charm, who are currently among the market leaders for the RSA Chase, were rated 1 lb lower over hurdles than Shutthefrontdoor, so Jonjo O'Neill's charge shouldn't be underestimated when he steps up in grade.

Timeform Jumps Notebook:

Shutthefrontdoor - Impressive winner on chasing debut who looks set to take high rank among novice chasers.

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