The Giant Bolster, a threat to Long Run in William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton
Long Run is likely to earn the highest price in the Grade 1, William Hill King George VI Chase, taking place at Kempton on the Boxing Day. No one would blame the bookies for this, because Nicky Henderson’s charge clearly has the best form.
Even though the 7-year-old did not look at his best on the previous two starts, it would be hard for the punters to ignore him. Covering three miles on Kempton’s possible soft surface is not going to be an easy task for any participant, and Long Run is one of the few with proven stamina. There is plenty going for him, but one cannot trust him blindly.
The Giant Bolster is the main danger. The 7-year-old has no stamina questions to answer. He was trounced by Long Run in the Grade 2 Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury in February, 2012.
Although the David Bridgwater-trained failed to take the first prize, he dished out revenge, and defeated Long Run in the Grade 1, Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase earlier this year. Both horses have lock horns more than once in the past, and know each other very well. Another exciting battle between these two is imminent.
Long Run has no ground concerns, and his rider, Mr S. Waley-Cohen, has already shown satisfaction at the prevailing conditions. Barney Clifford, clerk of the course at Kempton, said a few days ago:
"He (Sam Waley-Cohen) gave it the thumbs up and said it was similar to when Long Run won the rescheduled King George two years ago. If we get the rain they say I expect it to be soft, but not tiring soft, and we are looking forward to a competitive renewal of the race."
The surface is likely to play a role. The conditions might get more testing in case of more rain. The clerk of the course stated last week:
"If the rain materialises that we have been forecast we anticipate the ground to be soft for the William Hill Winter Festival. We have been told to expect 25mm over the next three to four days, kicking off with 10mm tonight."
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect Bettor.com’s editorial policy.
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