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 child, he was likewise put in both the Hurdle and Challow in late 2023 but his progress over the bigger challenges has been hindered by a breathing concern in more current times.


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


King stated: "He would have given the winner plenty to consider at Newbury last time if he had actually 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 eagerly anticipating our newbie chase season and he left to the right start but then he had a breathing issue and missed the rest of the season.


"I have actually always enjoyed him, he's an elite 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 evaluate.


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


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


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


Alan King's The Doyen Chief (5-4 favourite) might also have another visit to Kempton on his program after combating off 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 obviously 3 and a quarter miles at Cheltenham is a bit different to three miles here," said King's assistant Robin Smith.


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


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


"It would not surprise me if he came back at the end of next month for what was Ladbrokes Trophy."