Lookaway Back In The Winning Groove

Neil King's Lookaway made a welcome return 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 put in both the Greatwood Hurdle and Challow in late 2023 but his progress over the larger challenges has actually been prevented by a breathing concern in more current times.


However, the 7-2 chance served a timely tip of his quality in the hands of Jack Quinlan to sign up an emphatic 24-length win and bring a go back to the Sunbury place into the formula.


King stated: "He would have given the winner plenty to think about at Newbury last time if he had jumped 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 right start but then he had a breathing problem and missed the rest of the season.


"I have actually 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 might be great to go there with him, however we'll get him home to evaluate.


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


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


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


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


"It looked like he didn't rather remain at Cheltenham last time and undoubtedly three and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit various to three miles here," stated King's assistant Robin Smith.


"It was a good 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 out on the start) was aggravating and sort of put a spanner in the works, however it's great to get back on track today.


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