Pauling Targets Windsor Riches With Handstands

Ben Pauling will target the Fitzdares Fleur De Lys Chase at Windsor with Handstands after a minor back concern was determined as the cause of 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 resurgence, the six-year-old returned 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 adamant that his charge was not at his best that day and wants to see him in a much better light at the Winter Million on January 18.


"He was sore and we have actually had his back arranged out, so we have actually absolutely identified why he hung up the home straight," said the fitness instructor.


"We're still most likely going to drop him back in trip in the Fleur De Lys at Windsor. It's a various kind of track, however he's in excellent order, he looks a million dollars and I'm really 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 magnificence with stable star The Jukebox Man, adding: "He could not be much better at the moment.


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


"We're beginning to ramp up his work, it's not long now and we're getting to the phase where we do not need any missteps, but if we're in the type I expect to be in I think he's going to be very competitive."