Lookaway Back In The Winning Groove

Neil King's Lookaway made a welcome return 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 Challow in late 2023 however his development over the bigger barriers has actually been hindered by a breathing problem in more recent times.


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


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


"He deserves this, he is the most authentic horse. Last season we were looking forward to our novice chase season and he got off to the ideal start however then he had a breathing issue and missed the remainder of the season.


"I have actually constantly liked him, he's a high-class 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 good to go there with him, but we'll get him home to examine.


Lookaway returned on track at Kempton (Steven Paston/PA)


"The big three-mile race here (Ladbrokes Trophy, February 21) is likewise possible as I would not be against stepping up in trip and I think 3 miles here would be quite interesting.


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


Alan King's The Doyen Chief (5-4 favourite) could also have another visit to on his agenda after eradicating Ben Pauling's Your Darling in the Coral "New" Horse Racing Bet Builder Handicap Chase.


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


"It was an excellent dive at the last and he was excellent from the back of there to return up I believed.


"Newbury (Coral Gold Cup, when missing out on the start) was discouraging and sort of put a spanner in the works, but it's nice to get back on track today.


"It wouldn't amaze me if he came back at completion of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy."