Pauling Targets Windsor Riches With Handstands

Ben Pauling will target the Fitzdares Fleur De Lys Chase at Windsor with Handstands after a small back problem was identified as the reason for his below-par finishing effort in last month's Betfair Chase.


A Grade One-winning novice last season and narrowly beaten by Resplendent Grey on his Carlisle comeback, the gone back to the greatest level with high hopes on Merseyside, but was eventually well beaten as he passed the post last of 4 finishers.


Pauling was adamant that his charge was not at his best that day and wishes to see him in a much better light at the Winter Million meeting on January 18.


"He was sore and we've had his back arranged out, so we have actually absolutely determined why he hung up the home straight," said the fitness instructor.


"We're still most likely going to drop him back in journey in the Fleur De Lys at Windsor. It's a various kind of track, but he remains in great order, he looks a million dollars and I'm extremely happy with him.


"I was thrilled with the method he went through three-quarters of the race at Haydock and it was uncharacteristic of him to be a weak finisher. I think now we have actually repaired that we'll be in a better location."


Handstands in action at Sandown (John Walton/PA)


More instantly Pauling has his eyes on King George VI Chase magnificence with steady star The Jukebox Man, adding: "He couldn't be much better at the minute.


"You're always nervous about horses that have had injuries, specifically horses with that much ability as you want them to be OK so much, however he came out of Haydock as well as we could ever have actually hoped.


"We're starting to ramp up his work, it's not long now and we're getting to the phase where we do not need any hiccups, but if we remain in the type I expect to be in I think he's going to be extremely competitive."