Kauto Star remains on course to round off his campaign in next month’s Punchestown Gold Cup.
The 11-year-old is coming towards the end of an incredible career during which he has won the Cheltenham Gold Cup twice and the King George VI Chase four times among his Grade One prizes.
He ran a fine race to finish third behind Long Run and stablemate Denman in last month’s renewal of the Gold Cup and his owner Clive Smith is hoping to see his charge finish his campaign in style in Ireland next month.
“We’re still aiming for Punchestown and we’re just hoping the ground doesn’t get too firm,” Smith said.
“I’m sure they’ll make sure it’s good to soft, or something hopefully near that, as that would suit him well.
“Three miles will suit him well. At three miles in the Gold Cup he was right there but then up the hill, Long Run and his younger legs came past him.
“It would be a great way to round off the season if he could win in Ireland. Any decisions on his future will be made after that.”
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