Lookaway Back In The Winning Groove

Neil King's Lookaway made a welcome go back to the winner's enclosure in the Coral "Daily Rewards Shaker" Handicap Chase at Kempton.


Winner of the Aintree bumper as a child, he was likewise positioned in both the Greatwood Hurdle and in late 2023 but his development over the bigger obstacles has actually been impeded by a breathing problem in more recent times.


However, the 7-2 possibility served a timely suggestion of his quality in the hands of Jack Quinlan to register an emphatic 24-length win and bring a go back to the Sunbury venue into the equation.


King said: "He would have offered the winner plenty to think of at Newbury last time if he had actually leapt the last and he's put them to bed and done it well today.


"He deserves this, he is the most real horse. Last season we were eagerly anticipating our novice chase season and he left to the best start but then he had a breathing problem and missed the remainder of the season.


"I've constantly liked him, he's a classy horse. We'll see where we go now. His owner Peter Beadles is going to Cheltenham Trials day in two weeks' time so it might be great to go there with him, but we'll get him home to evaluate.


Lookaway got back on track at Kempton (Steven Paston/PA)


"The big three-mile race here (Ladbrokes Trophy, February 21) is also possible as I would not protest stepping up in journey and I believe 3 miles here would be pretty interesting.


"The Festival is in the back of the mind like it is with any winning horse, but I 'd rather be sensible and continue winning than simply go to Cheltenham in March for a good lunch."


Alan King's The Doyen Chief (5-4 preferred) might likewise have another check out to Kempton on his agenda after combating off Ben Pauling's Your Darling in the Coral "New" Horse Racing Bet Builder Handicap Chase.


"It appeared like he didn't quite stay at Cheltenham last time and undoubtedly three and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit different to 3 miles here," stated King's assistant Robin Smith.


"It was a great jump at the last and he was excellent from the back of there to return up I thought.


"Newbury (Coral Gold Cup, when missing the start) was frustrating and type of put a spanner in the works, however it's good to return on track today.


"It would not surprise me if he came back at the end of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy."