Pauling Targets Windsor Riches With Handstands

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


A Grade One-winning beginner last season and directly beaten by Resplendent Grey on his Carlisle comeback, the six-year-old gone back to the highest level with high hopes on Merseyside, but was ultimately well beaten as he passed the post last of 4 finishers.


Pauling was determined that his charge was not at his best that day and wants to see him in a better light at the Winter Million conference on January 18.


"He was sore and we have actually had his back figured out, so we have actually absolutely pinpointed why he hung up the home directly," stated the trainer.


"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 excellent order, he looks a million dollars and I'm extremely pleased 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've repaired that we'll remain 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 stable star The Jukebox Man, including: "He could not be better at the minute.


"You're constantly nervous about horses that have had injuries, especially horses with that much capability as you desire them to be OK so much, but he came out of Haydock in addition to we might 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 don't need any missteps, however if we remain in the type I anticipate to be in I think he's going to be really competitive."