Lookaway Back In The Winning Groove

Neil King's Lookaway made a welcome go back to the winner's enclosure 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 however his development over the larger barriers has been hindered by a breathing problem in more current times.


However, the 7-2 chance served a timely pointer 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 equation.


King stated: "He would have provided the winner plenty to consider 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 authentic horse. Last season we were anticipating our novice chase season and he got off to the ideal start however then he had a breathing problem and missed the rest of the season.


"I have actually constantly liked him, he's a high-class horse. We'll see where we go now. His owner Peter Beadles is going to Cheltenham Trials day in two weeks' time so it might be great to go there with him, however we'll get him home to assess.


Lookaway returned on track at Kempton (Steven Paston/PA)


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


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


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


"It appeared like he didn't rather remain at Cheltenham last time and undoubtedly 3 and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit different to 3 miles here," said King's assistant Robin Smith.


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


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


"It would not shock me if he came back at completion of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy."