Commander set for Haydock, Thomas opts for What A Friend
It’s been a year since Imperial Commander’s narrow defeat by Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase, and after an incredible twelve months, which saw him reign supreme in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Nigel Twiston Davies -trained horse heads the market in this year’s Haydock showpiece.
Twiston Davies has reported that the star of his stable may well have improved over the summer, and if he runs anywhere near last year’s run, where he was touched off by Kauto Star in an epic battle, then the opposition will be playing for nothing more than second place.
His nearest rival, according to the markets and the ratings, is the Paul Nicholls-trained What A Friend. The seven-year-old, who looks the most likely of the younger generation from Nicholls yard to take the same career path as Denman and Kauto Star, is to be ridden by Sam Thomas (pictured right), who is standing in for the injured Ruby Walsh.
The 26-year-old rider was originally scheduled to team up once again with Charlie Hall Chase winner Nacarat, but opted for the Nicholls’ runner, who is part owned by Sir Alex Ferguson. It was decision that Thomas didn’t make easily.
"This has been one of the most difficult decisions I've ever had to make in racing and Simon Clarke [owner of Nacarat] has been an absolute gentleman,” Thomas told the Daily Mail.
"Obviously, both have it all to do to beat Imperial Commander but I'm confident that I have made the right decision."
The ten strong field for Saturday’s feature will also include Silver By Nature, who will be making his first appearance of the season following his 15-lengh win in the Haydock's Totesport Grand National Trial in February. Massini’s Maguire has also been confirmed by trainer David Pipe, who will need a career best effort despite winning last month’s United House Gold Cup.
Albertas Run and Planet Of Sound both are entered in Ascot's Amlin 1965 Chase as well as the Betfair Chase, while Cheltenham Festival winner Chief Dan George could make his reappearance at Haydock.
Tidal Bay and Atouchbetweenacara also will line up in a race where all eyes will fall upon on the favourite, who will be looking to stamp his authority over Kauto Star and Denman in the build-up to next year’s Gold Cup.
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