Pauling Targets Windsor Riches With Handstands

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


A newbie last season and directly beaten by Resplendent Grey on his Carlisle resurgence, the six-year-old returned to the greatest level with high hopes on Merseyside, however was eventually well beaten as he passed the post last of four finishers.


Pauling was determined 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 aching and we have actually had his back arranged out, so we've definitely pinpointed why he hung up the home directly," said the trainer.


"We're still most likely going to drop him back in trip in the Fleur De Lys at Windsor. It's a various type of track, however he remains in very good order, he looks a million dollars and I'm very delighted with him.


"I was delighted with the way he went through three-quarters of the race at Haydock and it was uncharacteristic of him to be a weak finisher. I believe now we have actually fixed that we'll be in a better place."


Handstands in action at Sandown (John Walton/PA)


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


"You're constantly nervous about horses that have actually had injuries, particularly horses with that much ability as you want them to be OK so much, but he came out of Haydock along with we might ever have actually hoped.


"We're beginning to increase his work, it's not long now and we're getting to the phase where we don't need any hiccups, however if we're in the type I anticipate to be in I believe he's going to be extremely competitive."