Ruby Walsh: Rain-softened conditions perfect for L'Homme Presse
L'Homme Presse and Charlie Deutsch en route to victory in the Betfair Exchange Rehearsal Handicap Chase at Newcastle last month. He looks sure to go close in today's King George. Picture: Healy Racing
Time moves on, but some things do not change. I'll be spending St Stephen's Day at Kempton, where Paul Nicholls holds the aces in the King George. Bravesmansgame, Hitman, and Frodon represent Paul in the Christmas feature, which some day will include his name in the title, such has been his success in the race. But today I don't feel safety comes in numbers for my former boss.
The 18 millimeters of rain that fell through Christmas Eve has swung the balance heavily in favour of Venetia Williams' rising star L'Homme Presse. He is a rock-solid jumper with a high cruising speed, and any worries about speed will be negated by the slower-than-usual underfoot conditions. I have felt for quite a while that this lad could easily be the best staying chaser in training in the UK, and shortly after 2.30pm, I think he will plunder the second biggest prize available in his division.
