Alan King still to decide between Grumeti and Balder Succes – Horseracing Update
The champion trainer, Alan King, is yet undecided about who of his ace duo, Grumeti and Balder Succes, will run in the high-profile contest of JCB Triumph Hurdle which is scheduled to be held at Cheltenham on March 16.
The Class 1 race of 2m1f has 77 entries including some big names. The event will start at 1:30 (GMT) on Friday.
As both of the King’s geldings possess excellent success streaks and unbeaten records, the trainer is still unable to decide between the two.
King claims that he does not want to take any haste decision as a lot of time is left till the race day. He is of the view that the final pronouncement will be issued after analysing the condition of the ground.
The trainer has also revealed that the soft ground will suit to Balder Succes while Grumeti performs better on hard surfaces. However, he has regarded both the geldings as equally talented and capable.
While speaking to the media yesterday, King said, “We don't have to rush into it. I think a lot will depend on ground. I think soft ground will certainly suit Balder Succes. I'm not saying he won't go on good but I think he is very effective on the soft,
whereas I think better ground suits Grumeti.”
He further told, “They are both lovely horses and we are lucky to have the two to go in it. Wayne's ridden both of them so it's not a major issue."
King’s stable jockey Robert Thornton, who rode both the horses a few days back, has also applauded the duo and termed them efficient enough to demonstrate big runs at Cheltenham.
Balder Succes has won all of his total four starts so far since making his debut in October 2011. Since the dawn of 2012, he has won three races in a row. His last victory came on February 18.
Grumeti has also been an excellent performer throughout his career, winning 5 out of his total 13 races to date. The young runner won his last two races on January 28 and February 25 in a row.
Thus, each of the King’s duo is geared up to deal with the Cheltenham challenge confidently. Now, it is up to the trainer whom he gives the vote of confidence.
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