Nicholls duo punted to take Long Run's King George crown

Any thoughts that Kauto Star should have been retired at the end of last season were firmly dispelled when the eleven year-old trounced his rivals in the Betfair Chase at Haydock Park on Saturday.

In a field that included current Cheltenham Gold Cup and King George VI Chase champion Long Run, Charlie Hall Chase winner Weird Al, plus Diamond Harry and Time For Rupert, the Paul Nicholls trained gelding went off at 6/1, which in fact was the biggest price he has been returned since racing in the United Kingdom.

Making almost every yard in the hands of Ruby Walsh the former two-time Gold Cup and four-time King George winner stayed on well from three out to draw clear of Long Run and record a six length victory, with Weird Al a further two lengths back in third.

On the same Saturday afternoon Kauto Star's stable-mate Master Minded captured the Amlin Chase at Ascot in convincing fashion, jumping well throughout the eight year-old held off the late challenge of Somersby by three lengths, with recent Haldon Gold Cup winner Medermit well beaten in third.

Bookmakers have reacted by cutting both the Paul Nicholls trained pair for the King George VI Chase with Kauto Star now a best priced 6.00 with Victor Chandler, Boylesports and Betfred, while Master Minded is can be backed at 7.00 with Victor Chandler and Sporting Bet.