AT THE RACES Vicar can lead procession at Sandown

MORNING Vicar can follow up his victory at Newbury a month ago in Sandown’s My Oddsboost On Betfair Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase tomorrow

ROSE). (writes TED

Nicky Henderson’s seven-year-old got off the mark over fences at the third attempt, after showing promise in his first two runs.

He got off to an inauspicious start when falling at the fourth-last obstacle at the same course last December when he was still in with every chance.

Morning Vicar returned to action at Uttoxeter in October, and just found the extended two and three-quarter miles a shade too far.

However, he lost nothing in defeat to Demachine – who has gone to win at Ascot.

The drop in trip can only be a help – and with that confidence-boosting first success over fences under his belt, Morning Vicar can continue to progress and maybe go on to better things.

Star Gate can overcome his relative inexperience to take the Grade Two honours in the Ballymore Winter Novices’ Hurdle.

Evan Williams’ four-year-old won a point-to-point in February and was also successful on his only run over hurdles at Chepstow five weeks ago.

He showed great promise that day with a comprehensive victory by six-and-a-half lengths from Everglow. Williams must rate him highly to step up in class so soon.

Espion should appreciate tackling the near three-mile distance of the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle.

The Philip Hobbs-trained six-year-old shaped encouragingly when third to Gortroe Joe over two and a half miles. He was putting in his best work at the finish, to suggest he will stay further.