Highest rating yet for Kauto Star

Kauto Star has reached his highest ever official rating following his King George VI Chase romp at Kempton on St Stpehen’s Day.

Paul Nicholls' runner annihilated the opposition in the three-mile showpiece, prompting British Horseracing Authority head of handicapping Phil Smith to award him a mark of 180.

The increase of 1lb sees Kauto Star equal Moscow Flyer's mark, with the Irish horse the only one to reach such a level in the last 15 years.

Smith said: "You'd have to say that was his best yet, he was flawless.

"His jockey was waving to the crowd in the final yards, while the second, third and fourth horses were all ridden out to the line, so I have given him credit for the ease of his victory.

"Along with Moscow Flyer, it would be the best performance in my time as a handicapper.

"New tactics were employed with Exotic Dancer which perhaps didn't work, but there is no reason to think that the other key performers have not run their races, and I was very happy with Our Vic and Racing Demon.

"I strongly suspect that a horse will have to put in a performance of above 180 to win this season's Gold Cup, with a truer pace more likely."

Nicholls believes Kauto Star's win should silence any doubters.

"I'm thrilled for the horse. Anyone who had any doubts about him - he put them in their place yesterday," said Nicholls.

"He did everything right, he jumped well and it was a professional performance.

"He's in fine form this morning.

"I don't think I have ever had a horse like him.

"He is finally being given the credit he deserves and I enjoyed watching it yesterday.

"You can ride him any way you like, depending on how the race is run.

"I think his days of going back to two miles are over now. One thing he does is stay strongly.

"I wouldn't mind running him over two and a half or two-six as a prep run for a big race but he won't go back to two.

"It's not set in stone where he will run next, I'll have to discuss it with Clive (Smith, owner). He will only have one run, if at all, before Cheltenham, he told At The Races."