Paul Nicholls has admitted Present Man could be pulled out of the Red32 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase on Boxing Day if the ground softens.
Present Man has been aimed at the Kempton race but champion trainer Nicholls says if there is plenty of rain in the build-up to the contest, he could have a rethink.
Nicholls also has Frodon, who impressed when winning the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham recently, as a lively chance in the race and admits he could end up being the better option.
“It’s a long way off and we don’t have to confirm until Friday, but Frodon has come out of his last race very well,” Nicholls said. “I just put him in to have a look really.
“Present Man has been our intended runner as long as the ground does not get too soft. If there was a load of rain over the weekend I’d probably think twice about it.
“If it came up soft it would be no good for Present Man and it might be that Frodon runs.”
Frodon will look to lay down a marker as he continues to eye a shot at the JLT Novices’ Steeple Chase on March 16 at the 2017 Cheltenham Festival.
The Cheltenham Festival is not the only big racing event coming up. Remember that the Grand National is also approaching and is one of the most exciting days of the year to have a bet!
