Denman progress excites Nicholls

Paul Nicholls claims Denman has given Ruby Walsh “the best feel for three years” ahead of his racecourse return in November.

The 2008 Gold Cup conqueror is being geared towards attempting to win the Hennessy at Newbury for a remarkable third time – even though the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby towards the end of the month was fleetingly under consideration.

All roads now lead to the Hennessy, however, for which the popular 10-year-old is reportedly giving off the right signals.

Nicholls told Betfair: “Along with Mandarin and Arkle, he is the only horse to have won the race twice.

“And, 9lb higher than for his win last season, it is possible that Denman has to improve to win. But we know he loves a big and competitive field, and Newbury. And, pointedly, Ruby says Denman has given him the best feel for three years.”

Kauto Star is on schedule to run in the Champion Chase at Down Royal on November 6, while fellow Gold Cup aspirant What A Friend is poised for an absorbing duel with Imperial Commander in the Betfair Chase at Haydock a fortnight later.

“Kauto Star will sidestep the Betfair Chase, but he is bang on course for Down Royal,” added Nicholls.

“That will hopefully set him up nicely for an attempt on an unbelievable fifth King George win on Boxing Day.

“What A Friend could be a serious horse in this campaign, not that he was too joyless last season, when he won the Lexus and totesport Bowl after finishing second to Denman in the Hennessy.

“He is dynamic when fresh and the current plan is to see him take on Imperial Commander in the Betfair Chase.

“He could be joined by Neptune Collonges or Taranis at Haydock, but these two also have the Hennessy as possible targets, too.”