Nicky Henderson, who trains the reigning champion hurdler, had expressed concern about whether the Kempton gallops would go ahead in view of a frosty forecast. Clifford reckons there will be around half an hour after the last race in which 10 horses can work while sufficient visibility remains. It is a measure of Henderson’s strength in depth that he can expect to field the favourites for the Champion Hurdle, Gold Cup and Queen Mother Champion Chase next month. Call Me Lord will skip the Champion Hurdle. Gold Present runs at Kempton on Saturday and, if all goes well, will skip Cheltenham and go straight to Aintree.

Source: The Guardian February 20, 2018 17:56 UTC