Thornton confident in Solzen stamina

Robert Thornton feels My Way De Solzen will have no problems stepping back up to three miles in next weekend’s Betfair Chase at Haydock.

This year’s Arkle Trophy hero has only raced at shorter distances over fences, although as a hurdler he was very much in the staying category.

While the likely challenge of Kauto Star will provide the sternest test possible, his rider believes certain things will be in My Way De Solzen’s favour.

“He’s going to take on Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase and schooled the other day with Wayne Hutchinson – he usually rides his work at home, but I won’t be letting him ride him on the racecourse!” said Thornton.

“I don’t think soft ground is crucial to him anymore – he won a World Hurdle on what I’d say was quick ground.

“At the moment I would say his best trip is two miles four furlongs to two miles six, but he is quick enough to go with the best at two miles.

“He was coming to the end of his tether in the World Hurdle but the fences around Haydock will help him to get three miles and I have no doubt he will stay the Gold Cup trip.”