Lightning could be set for new year strike

Alan King is considering a return to Cheltenham on New Year’s Day for Fork Lightning after the nine-year-old’s pleasing third in the Mears Group Chase at the track last Friday.

The grey had been absent since landing the William Hill National Hunt Handicap Chase at the Festival in 2004, but ran a blinder on his first start for 633 days to finish third to Royal Auclair.

“He has come out of the race A1 and had a walk this morning,” said King.

“I will give him a bit of time because that was his first run for a long while, but there is a possibility, if he really pleases me, that he could go back to Cheltenham on New Year’s Day.

“He certainly won’t run before then and if I think he needs more time then I will give him it.

“Longer-term the Racing Post Chase would be a possibility and then hopefully back to Cheltenham for the William Hill again, although he wouldn’t want quickish ground.”