Waley-Cohen cleared for Long Run Gold Cup prep

ROBERT Waley-Cohen expressed his delight at news that his son Sam will be available to ride at Newbury on February 11 should Long Run have a prep run for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The jockey was banned for 12 days for pulling up Otage De Brion a circuit early at Fakenham but the suspension only applies on days when there are races for amateur riders.

Confirmation that Waley-Cohen will be free could tempt connections of the Nicky Henderson-trained gelding to take in the Betfair Denman Chase on the way to attempting to defend his Gold Cup crown in March.

Long Run has had to settle for second place behind Kauto Star in the Betfair and King George VI Chases in both his races so far this season.

“Sam will be free on the 11th of February to ride in the Denman,” said Waley-Cohen senior, the owner of Long Run.

“We haven’t finally decided whether to run him in it but it is one of the many factors that will help us make our mind up. I’m going down to see the horse tomorrow but I believe he’s come out of the race fine. All roads lead to the Gold Cup.”