Kauto Star is on course to have his final run before defending his Gold Cup title in the Commercial First Ascot Chase tomorrow. The Berkshire track forecast good ground after extensive watering, something which hasn't gone down too well with rival trainers, including Nicky Richards whose Monet's Garden is one of eight possible rivals for Kauto Star after today's final declarations.
Kauto Star's trainer, Paul Nicholls, should be among the winners at Chepstow today, where his bumper runner Mahonia (5.05), running in the Best Mate colours, is reckoned a good horse for the future. There isn't much new to say about Henry Daly's handicapper, Thievery (4.00), but this seven-year-old has a good chance at Chepstow. He was given a lot to do by his inexperienced rider at Huntingdon last time.
With Nina Carberry coming over for the ride, Caipiroska (3.05) will not lack for assistance in the amateurs' chase at Kelso. Ferdy Murphy's gelding had looked to need good ground, but his last two runs on soft/heavy have been among his best. Reverting to fences after two hurdles wins, Dickie Lewis (3.40) can also oblige at Kelso.
