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 newbie last season and directly beaten by Resplendent Grey on his Carlisle return, the gone back to the greatest level with high hopes on Merseyside, however was ultimately well beaten as he passed the post last of four finishers.


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


"He was sore and we have actually had his back sorted out, so we have actually certainly pinpointed why he hung up the home directly," 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 different kind of track, however he's in extremely excellent order, he looks a million dollars and I'm very happy with him.


"I was thrilled with the way 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 have actually 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 glory with steady star The Jukebox Man, including: "He couldn't be better at the minute.


"You're always worried about horses that have had injuries, specifically horses with that much ability as you want them to be OK a lot, but he came out of Haydock as well as we could ever have hoped.


"We're beginning to increase his work, it's not long now and we're getting to the stage where we don't need any missteps, however if we remain in the form I anticipate to be in I believe he's going to be extremely competitive."