Denman Team Issue Ground Warning

Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup favourite Denman is still on course for the Newbury showpiece, although connections have issued a warning over the ground.

The seven-year-old has not been seen since winning the Royal & SunAlliance Chase in imperious fashion last March.

He had to miss his intended prep for Newbury in the Charlie Hall Chase because of quick ground at Wetherby and Harry Findlay, whose mother owns the horse in partnership with Paul Barber, is hoping conditions ease considerably ahead of the December 1 feature.

'It's all systems go for the Hennessy. I saw him yesterday morning and he looks fantastic,' said Findlay.

'All along Paul Barber hasn't been keen on Newbury because he has had a few horses go into the race and it has left a mark and because of the way the weather has stayed dry as well.

'But we have been assured by the clerk of the course that because of the wet summer, it would only take a couple of weeks for it to become perfect jumping ground.

'The softer the better for Denman really, but I wouldn't be backing him at 5-1 as I know there are a few of the Irish horses that are licking their lips at taking him on at the weights,' he told At The Races.

'Right from the start we knew he wouldn't be running at the likes of Kempton and Sandown. He will be much better suited to Newbury, Chepstow, Cheltenham and we have our eyes on Leopardstown at Christmas.

'He's a real character of a horse and I think Paul (Nicholls) really enjoys training him.

'There is nothing I would like better than taking on Kauto Star in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham, so we will have to see how we go.'

(C) PA Sport