Trainer Colin Tizzard will wait as long as possible before deciding whether Thistlecrack will run in the 32Red King George VI Chase.
The eight-year-old is yet to taste defeat over fences, securing his latest victory in the bet365 Novices’ Chase at Newbury last month, but Tizzard has yet to decide whether the Bay Gelding will run in the prestigious King George or the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase on the same card.
The 60-year-old trainer has confirmed he will wait as long as possible before making a decision on which race to run Thistlecrack in, admitting that ground conditions will play a key role in his choice.
“We’ve still not decided which race Thistlecrack will go for. We just want to make sure we chose the right race,” Tizzard said.
“A flat-out gallop in the King George might help him as he could easily sit in third or fourth and pick them up but it could also take him out of his comfort zone as he’s never done that pace over fences and that’s our issue.”
Cue Card emerged victorious in the King George 12 months ago, and he will be looking to defend his crown on Boxing Day, but Tizzard insists he has no qualms about running both horses in the race.
“The owners will listen to what we want to do but in the end they will make the decision,” he explained.
“Jean Bishop (Cue Card’s owner) has been in racing long enough and knows we have got two very good horses and we’ve got to do best for both sets of owners.”
