Last Updated; 31/01/2009

Celestial Halo warmed up for the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle by claiming Osana's scalp as the 1/2 favourite in the Totepool Contenders Listed Hurdle.

Last year's Triumph winner was put in his place by Champion Hurdle favourite Binocular last time out, but managed to pick up Osana and hold off David Pipe's seasonal debutant by three and a half lengths.

Sky Bet cut the winner to 10s from 12s for the Cheltenham feature but expect Osana to turn the tables at Prestbury Park. Pipe's charge is 9/1 from the same price.

Winning trainer Paul Nicholls said: "He was straight enough but I have left plenty to work on.

"This will sharpen him up a lot. There are six weeks to the Champion Hurdle and this is just what the doctor ordered.

"This race was perfect timing and it is great to get a run in at this time of the year and leave a bit in the tank."

Pipe was represented by his father Martin, who said of Osana: "I am very pleased and thought that was a great run giving the winner 4lb.

"He jumped well in testing old ground and can only improve.

"He will definitely come on for the run, and you would love to take the winner on again at level weights."