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 identified as the reason for his below-par finishing effort in last month's Betfair Chase.


A Grade One-winning novice last season and narrowly 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 four finishers.


Pauling was determined that his charge was not at his finest that day and intends to see him in a much better light at the Winter Million meeting on January 18.


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


"We're still probably 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 great 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 . I believe now we've fixed that we'll remain in a much better location."


Handstands in action at Sandown (John Walton/PA)


More right away Pauling has his eyes on King George VI Chase magnificence with steady star The Jukebox Man, including: "He couldn't be better at the minute.


"You're always nervous about horses that have had injuries, specifically horses with that much ability as you desire them to be OK a lot, however he came out of Haydock along with we might ever have hoped.


"We're beginning 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're in the type I expect to be in I believe he's going to be extremely competitive."