CON-QUEST

Elliott's novice to outsmart Kitzbuhel in Scilly Isles

- MELISSA JONES

KALA CONTI (2.40) can kick on past Kitzbuhel in the Grade One Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown Park.

Gordon Elliott's mare is two from two over fences at Cork’s righthanded circuit, where she bounded away from Kargese in a Grade Two event last month. Although the runner-up appeared to need the outing, Kala Conti impressed with her attitude in the closing stages and this 2m 4f race was nominated as her target.

Trainers are creatures of habit and Elliott, right, bagged the contest with Gerri Colombe - for the same owners Robcour - three years ago.

Heavy ground is no problem for SPIKE JONES (3.10), an each-way play at odds of 25-1 in the 11-runner Virgin Bet Heroes Handicap Hurdle.