Racing: Kauto Star faces six rivals as he bids to start the season on a high in the JNwine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal tomorrow.
Of the five-day entries only Tom Taaffe’s Finger Onthe Pulse was withdrawn at the final declaration stage.
That means Kauto Star, successful in this race two years ago, takes on a younger brigade headed by Arkle Trophy hero Sizing Europe.
Henry de Bromhead’s ace was beaten by China Rock on his reappearance at Punchestown last month and Mouse Morris’s runner has the chance to confirm the form.
A small but select line-up is completed by Coolcashin, Killyglen, Mossbank and Trafford Lad.
Connections of Kauto Star report the dual Cheltenham Gold Cup hero to be in fine shape for his first run since suffering a bad fall in the blue riband back in March.
“He’s as fit as he was when he went to Haydock last year and I’m very happy with him,” said trainer Paul Nicholls.
“He’s worked nicely and there’s no Imperial Commander to take on this weekend. It’s a great place to start him.
“Kempton is a big goal, but Clive (Smith, owner) has always wanted to run him in a handicap.
“Two years ago he went to Down Royal, had a race at Haydock when he fell and then still won the King George.
“He could run at Down Royal, in the Hennessy and King George and then we’d keep him fresh for Cheltenham.
“That would only be four runs in a season. The horses aren’t getting any younger and people like to see them. If we thought he was right and healthy the Hennessy is a possibility, but we haven’t said any more than that.”
Smith added: “It was quite an experience when we went to Down Royal a couple of years ago and it will be another big thrill.
“We’re hopeful of a good run. As long as he goes through the race well we’d be very willing to have go (at the Hennessy).
“This season is probably the last real season when he’s at the top of the game and why not have another run in between (before going for the King George).
“I’d always liked to have seen him put up against these good handicappers so why not go for it?
“He won’t have another run between the King George and the Gold Cup, is all goes well, so we’ll know more about him on Saturday.”