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By Billy Blakeman ValueChecker
Who Will be Jockey on Kauto? And at Ballydoyle?
10/11/10
Paul Nicholls and Clive Smith have yet to decide whether to let Kauto Star carry top-weight in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury later this month.
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Whilst Denman may have secured this big handicap, Kauto is not built for the big weight concession and I wouldn’t personally be rushing to back him. If he does run, then a replacement for the injured Ruby Walsh will need to be sorted. On that subject, Nicholls is quoted as saying;
"I haven't had a chance to have a chat with Clive (about riding arrangements) yet, but over the last few years (I've learnt that) to make a decision too soon is wrong as people get hurt and things change," said the Ditcheat handler. We're in the driving seat really as plenty of people would love to ride him, so we're not going to make a rushed decision and we'll think about it. I've got two or three people in my mind but I'm not worried about it at this stage.."
All being well, Kauto Star will bid for what would be an amazing 5th King George VI Chase triumph on Boxing Day, although Ruby will not be in the saddle as he is not expected to return until the end of January.
Other key news is that the bookies favourite Pat Smullen has ruled himself out of the vacant Ballydoyle job. With Johnny Murtagh making the surprise announcement that he will not be riding for Coolmore in 2011, one of the best riding jobs in the world is up for grabs.
"I've got a very good job and I ride for some very good owners so I'm happy where I am," he said. I'm staying with Dermot and very happy to do so. He's a world class trainer and he's got some great owners. I'm very happy in the position I am at the moment." said Smullen to the press.
Kieren Fallon has emerged as one of the favourites and how unlikely would that have once looked? Christophe Soumillion is also a strong possibility.
Modest racing at Southwell but the final race on the card at 4.00 can go to Bel Cantor. The 7-y-o is a considerable 18 lb lower than when last winning in February. Add to that the useful 7 lb claim taken off by Matthew Cosham and things have to look very interesting.
