Paul Nicholls is looking forward to seeing Sanctuaire test his ability against Sprinter Sacre in the Sportingbet Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown on December 8.

Having lost his way over hurdles, Sanctuaire began his career over fences earlier this year and was most impressive in winning each of his three starts. He slammed Somersby by 17 lengths in Sandown's Celebration Chase and he is now set for a return to Esher, where he is likely to find Sprinter Sacre lying in wait.

Nicholls told Sky Sports News: "He's an exciting two-mile chaser and he's off to the Tingle Creek now. He looks a lot stronger and he's only six. All the six-year-olds have improved enormously and if he follows what the rest of them have done he's going to be quite exciting."

Nicky Henderson's Sprinter Sacre is unbeaten in five starts over fences, including a stunning performance in the Arkle Trophy, and returns to action at Cheltenham on Sunday. Nicholls, however, is not scared to take him on with his improving youngster next month.

"Sprinter Sacre is very good, very talented, but the handicapper only rates 3lb between them and that's not a lot. It will be interesting in the Tingle Creek," said the champion trainer.

"I'll take it race by race with him but he won't run too much. I suspect we'd give him one run somewhere (after the Tingle Creek) and aim for the Champion Chase. The Champion Chase track at Cheltenham is on the Old Course, which I always think is the faster track, which will suit this horse."

13 May 2013

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Aspect on route to big things
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Lucky thirteen in line for Lockinge
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Sajjhaa set for late return
Cadeaux thriving in Singapore
Pink primed for Duke Of York
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12 May 2013

No hurry for Jammy plans
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Queally lights up Ascot meeting
Ektihaam storms to Buckhounds win
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Hard-fought battle won at Haydock
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Ascot drama for Fanning

11 May 2013

Felix foot-perfect on fencing debut
Cavalryman leads Cup charge
Ramsa ready to stand Trial
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McMahon sweet on Tart Ascot claims
Murphy to move to France
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Dee day for impressive Magician
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Lambe expects good run from Hall
Marengo ready to do battle
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Barizan sneaks into Swinton
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10 May 2013

Telescope focus is on Dante
Blinkers considered for Guarantee#
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Moohaajim has six appeal
Ascot welcomes a couple of Guests