Racing:Kauto Star just held on from Imperial Commander ito take a third Betfair Chase in a pulsating renewal at Haydock. The pair had it between them all the way up the straight, with a fine leap three out from Ruby Walsh's mount looking to have given him the advantage.
But Imperial Commander — unproven over the three-mile trip — really dug deep and was getting back at the 4-6 favourite all the way to the line.
A tense wait ensued as the judge studied the photograph, with the verdict going to Kauto Star by a nose.
Delighted winning trainer Paul Nicholls said: “I have had more sleepless nights than ever this week as the horses have just taken a while — Ruby (Walsh) just said he needed it which is what I wanted to hear.
“I couldn’t go to Kempton (King George) without a run as it’s a long time to go without a race and to hear him say that is just what I wanted.
“I thought he might just get a little bit tired. He keeps finding and he’s a real professional.
“Of the three races (he is scheduled to run in this year), this is the least favoured — Kempton and Cheltenham (Gold Cup) are what he wants.”
Walsh added: “He’s always digs this horse — he’s an incredible horse.”