Handstands secures victory at Towton Novices' Chase, eyes Grade One race

Handstands won the DragonBet Towton Novices' Chase at Ffos Las, marking his second Grade Two victory. He maintained control throughout the race, finishing ahead of Lord Of Thunder, who faced challenges after a fall. Trainer Ben Pauling noted Handstands adapted well to the tough ground and showed improvement in his jumping. The horse is now being considered for a Grade One race at Sandown on February 1. Pauling mentioned that the owners are not focused on the Cheltenham Festival, preferring the Scilly Isles and possibly Aintree in the spring. This strategy allows Handstands to avoid a potential clash with stablemate The Jukebox Man.