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 youngster, he was also placed in both the Greatwood Hurdle and Challow in late 2023 but his progress over the larger obstacles has been hindered by a breathing issue in more recent times.

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

King said: “He would have given the winner plenty to think about at Newbury last time if he had jumped the last and he’s put them to bed and done it well today.

“He deserves this, he is the most genuine horse. Last season we were looking forward to our novice chase season and he got off to the right start but then he had a breathing problem and missed the rest of the season.

“I’ve always loved 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 nice to go there with him, but we’ll get him home to assess.

“The big three-mile race here (Ladbrokes Trophy, February 21) is also possible as I wouldn’t be against stepping up in trip and I think three miles here would be pretty exciting.

“The Festival is in the back of the mind like it is with any winning horse, but I’d rather be sensible and keep on winning than just go to Cheltenham in March for a nice lunch.”

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

“It looked like he didn’t quite stay at Cheltenham last time and obviously three and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit different to three miles here,” said King’s assistant Robin Smith.

“It was a good jump at the last and he was very good from the back of there to get back up I thought.

“Newbury (Coral Gold Cup, when missing the start) was frustrating and kind of put a spanner in the works, but it’s nice to get back on track today.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if he came back at the end of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy.”