Smith: don’t write off Kauto for King George
The 2007 Cheltenham Gold Cup hero has perhaps lost the aura of invincibility that was so evident a couple of seasons ago, and the doubters were out in force after he unseated Sam Thomas at the final fence in the Betfair Chase at Haydock last month.
However, Smith says his charge is none the worse for that spill and has warned the media and punters alike it would be dangerous to write him off.
“Kauto is fine and he came out of the Betfair with no problems,” said Smith.
“Paul (Nicholls) says he’s in good form and it’s all systems go for the King George.
“This has always been his main aim for the start of the season and it is really the early-season championship.
“It’s a certain type of track which obviously suits him and let’s hope he can win it.
“It will then be a long lay-off and the big build up to the Gold Cup back at Cheltenham begins again.
“I’ve seen a few people are doubting him but let them doubt him, I think he will show everyone a good performance at Kempton.”
