Pauling Targets Windsor Riches With Handstands

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


A newbie last season and narrowly beaten by Resplendent Grey on his Carlisle resurgence, the six-year-old gone back to the highest level with high hopes on Merseyside, however was eventually well beaten as he passed the post last of four finishers.


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


"He was aching and we have actually had his back sorted out, so we have actually certainly determined why he hung up the home straight," said 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, however he's in extremely great order, he looks a million dollars and I'm really happy with him.


"I was pleased 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 believe now we've repaired 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 splendor with stable star The Jukebox Man, including: "He could not be much better at the minute.


"You're constantly worried about horses that have had injuries, especially horses with that much capability as you want them to be OK so much, however he came out of Haydock as well as we might ever have actually hoped.


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