Kauto team unfazed by George delay

Clive Smith does not expect the extra three weeks to be a problem for Kauto Star ahead of his bid to make history in the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton.

The Grade One contest was originally due to take place on December 26 but was rescheduled for January 15 due to the frost that scuppered the track’s Christmas Festival.

The Paul Nicholls-trained superstar, who officially turned 11 on New Year’s Day, is reported in rude health by his owner ahead of his bid for a record-breaking fifth King George triumph.

Smith, currently enjoying a short break in Morocco, said: “I’ll be back in plenty of time for Kempton and I’m looking forward to it.

“Hopefully he can do his stuff and pull it off. He’s got some stiff opposition, but we know he’s in good shape and Paul has been able to keep him ticking over.

“It’s a few weeks later now but it’s the same for them all and I’m sure the trainers will have their horses just about right for the day.

“It would be a fantastic record if he can do it.

“In the world of National Hunt racing he’s a very good horse and to win five would be a true statement about him,” the owner told At The Races.