Cyrname looks in fine Nic for King George
He’s been promoted as the horse to recoup Christmas expenses in the King George VI at Kempton on Boxing Day
Paul Nicholls’ Cyrname is the animal who carries this onerous responsibility, and he’ll set off on the three- mile journey also saddled with favouritism.
He’s earned that lofty position in the market, after scooting up in his last three races, including the defeat of the mighty Altior at Ascot last month.
Thatwasathree-runneraffair. Butthe way the seven-year-old jumped – and eventually galloped – unbeaten Altior into submission, was breathtaking.
Still progressive for Nicholls, Cyrname steps up in trip on Thursday. And the Somerset trainer is in no doubt that the extra stamina test will be ideal.
In that Ascot race, he also confirmed his liking for racing right-handed, with three victories at that track – two at this week’s venue and one at Huntingdon.
The ground should come up goodto-soft on the big day, which will suit French-bred Cyrname. But, in fairness, it will be good for most and ensure a fine race.
The dangers to the selection are likely to come from Colin Tizzard’s Dorset yard, who send out double Grade 1 winner, Lostintranslation, and previous winner, Thistlecrack.
The latter looked much more his old self when chasing home Paisley Park, at Cheltenham, over hurdles three weeks ago. He could run well at a nice price.
Just 24 hours later, a big field is set for the Welsh National at Chepstow, and Stuart Edmonds’ Now Mcginty ran a cracking trial, when a head behind Santini at Sandown.