Ascot-bound Turpin to miss Lexus Chase

Nicky Richards has all but ruled Turpin Green out of the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.

Instead, the eight-year-old, who was only beaten five lengths when third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, is likely to head to Ascot on December 22.

“He’s in the Long Walk and the Lexus, and he’s also got the option of a graduation chase at Ascot the same day as the Long Walk,” said Richards.

“So we’ve two at Ascot, he’s still in the King George but he probably won’t go for the Lexus, he’s nearly certain not to go for the Lexus I would think.

“He’ll probably get his ground at Ascot, so that is the favourite at the moment.”

Richards also had news of smart novice hurdler Bedlam Boy, who is set to make his eagerly-awaited debut over fences at Ayr on Monday.

He was taken out of an engagement at Hexham on Wednesday at the overnight stage.

“The ground wouldn’t have suited him, it won’t be very nice at all there as they have had standing water and then it froze,” said Richards.

“He might go to Ayr on Monday, that’s the plan.

“He’s a nice sort, he ran a solid race at Aintree, he wasn’t beaten far by Tidal Bay.

“We’re just waiting to get him started and we’ll work away from there.”