The two-mile novices' handicap hurdle at Warwick on Saturday may not be the strongest piece of form - the favourite fell before the race took shape and those held up struggled to make an impact - but Dungeness, representing the in-form Venetia Williams yard, was well on top at the finish and remains with plenty of potential. Dungeness had shaped extremely well on his previous start over an extended two and a half miles, finishing third at Uttoxeter on his seasonal return, and he improved on that effort to win at Warwick. Travelling fluently at the head of affairs, Dungeness was tackled by a well-treated rival in Bold Cuffs as they swung for home, but he stayed on strongly to assert approaching the final flight and he wio with a bit in hand. It was undoubtedly a career best from Dungeness but, considering the way he had previously shaped, it is unlikely that it was the drop in trip that brought about the improved performance and he could be capable of better still when tackling further.
Dungeness hasn't always been the most fluent over his obstacles (fell on only start over fences) but he put in a better round at Warwick under a forcing ride and if he can continue to avoid mistakes he will prove difficult to beat from a handicap mark that underestimates his ability.
Timeform Notebook 2013:
The North Yorkshire Grand National, run over 30 furlongs on heavy ground, looked like an ideal test for the progressive Merlin's Wish so it is slightly disappointing that he was so readily brushed aside in second place. Merlin's Wish once again produced a less-than-fluent round of jumping but he is capable of scoring off his current mark, provided he gets his act together in the jumping department. We will give Merlin's Wish another chance and he remains in the Notebook.
Shutthefrontdoor - Disappointed last time but earlier efforts suggest he can develop into a smart novice.
Straidnahanna - Has twice shaped well in strong novice events and could do better in handicaps.
Merlin's Wish - Staying handicap chaser who remains capable of winning off current mark.
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. Not knocked about last time.
Regal Encore - Looks set to enter handicaps on a lenient mark and is sure to progress.
Champagne West - Progressive novice that defied opening handicap mark with ease.
Pass Muster - Still potentially well treated based on fairly useful Flat form.
Dungeness - Has looked an improved horse this season and could be better over further.
