WORCESTER trainer Dr Richard Newland will mull options for Act Of Kalanisi after the gelding added a chasing success to his previous wins on the Flat and over hurdles.

Act Of Kalanisi continued the Claines-based handler’s excellent recent strike-rate when registering his first win over fences at Leicester.

The six-year-old was the Worcester trainer’s fifth win from his last seven runners when taking the John O’Gaunt Novices’ Chase.

Fulfilling the promise of an encouraging debut effort over the bigger obstacles at Ascot earlier this month, Act Of Kalanisi (7-4) outpointed Ciceron by seven lengths.

The winner took over from long-time leader Court In Session as they rounded what should have been the final fence which they by-passed after Dubai Crest fell on the first circuit.

“He probably just needed the run at Ascot and it just sharpened him up,” said Dr Newland.

“I’m pleased he’s got his head in front for the first time for a while and he’s been working very nicely at home.

“Hopefully, he can go on from there. It was a good confidence booster.

“I think we’ll look to run him once more this side of Christmas.

“I’m not quite sure yet whether to go for another novice with a penalty or we might have a shot at a better race — we’ll have a think about it.

“We’ll stick to distances from two miles to two four. I’m never sure of his trip.

“I thought he might need two four, but a properly run race over two miles on a stiff track is not too bad for him.

“It might even suit him.”