RACING:KAUTO STAR is reported to be in tremendous shape ahead of his bid for a third Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup success next month.
The only horse ever to regain the crown after adding success in 2009 to his first two years earlier, Clive Smith’s gelding has been in top form this term, defeating 2011 hero Long Run in both the Betfair Chase and King George VI Chase.
Kauto Star has been unaffected by the recent coughing outbreak among some horses at trainer Paul Nicholls’ stables, and delighted connections in his latest workout.
“He’s in good form,” said Nicholls. “Clifford (Baker) worked him on Saturday morning and we’ve got three weeks to get him in tip-top form.”
His half-brother Kauto Stone is also on target for Cheltenham with the sportingbet.comQueen Mother Champion Chase rather than the Ryanair Chase looking the more likely option after he ran too free in the Ascot Chase.
Black Apalachi and Rare Bob are both on course for the John Smith’s Grand National after delighting trainer Dessie Hughes at Fairyhouse on Saturday.
The pair are likely to have one more run before the Aintree spectacular on April 14th.
