Lookaway Back In The Winning Groove

Neil King's Lookaway made a welcome return to the in the Coral "Daily Rewards Shaker" Handicap Chase at Kempton.


Winner of the Aintree bumper as a youngster, he was also positioned in both the Greatwood Hurdle and Challow in late 2023 but his development over the larger barriers has been hindered by a breathing issue in more recent times.


However, the 7-2 opportunity served a prompt tip of his quality in the hands of Jack Quinlan to register an emphatic 24-length win and bring a go back to the Sunbury location into the formula.


King said: "He would have offered the winner plenty to think about at Newbury last time if he had leapt the last and he's put them to bed and done it well today.


"He deserves this, he is the most genuine horse. Last season we were anticipating our beginner chase season and he got off to the right start however then he had a breathing problem and missed the remainder of the season.


"I've constantly liked him, he's a classy horse. We'll see where we go now. His owner Peter Beadles is going to Cheltenham Trials day in 2 weeks' time so it may be nice to go there with him, but we'll get him home to examine.


Lookaway got back on track at Kempton (Steven Paston/PA)


"The huge three-mile race here (Ladbrokes Trophy, February 21) is likewise possible as I would not be against stepping up in journey and I think 3 miles here would be quite exciting.


"The Festival remains in the back of the mind like it is with any winning horse, but I 'd rather be sensible and keep winning than simply go to Cheltenham in March for a good lunch."


Alan King's The Doyen Chief (5-4 preferred) could also have another check out to Kempton on his program after battling off Ben Pauling's Your Darling in the Coral "New" Horse Racing Bet Builder Handicap Chase.


"It appeared like he didn't quite remain at Cheltenham last time and certainly three and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit various to three miles here," said King's assistant Robin Smith.


"It was a great dive at the last and he was excellent from the back of there to get back up I believed.


"Newbury (Coral Gold Cup, when missing the start) was frustrating and kind of put a spanner in the works, but it's great to return on track today.


"It wouldn't shock me if he came back at the end of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy."