King George possible for Al and Conti Paul Nicholls could have at least two representatives in the William Hill King George VI Chase, with Silviniaco Conti and Al Ferof under consideration for Kempton on St Stephen's Day. Both horses were in action on Saturday, with Silviniaco Conti failing to retain the Betfair Chase but still running an honourable third behind Colin Tizzard's irrepressible Cue Card. It was rather easier for Al Ferof at Ascot, where he had no problems seeing off his only rival, French Opera, in the Amlin 1965 Chase. Of Silviniaco Conti, Nicholls said: "He ran very well. It was a better race than last year and I just felt he needed the run. "I was well pleased. He's in the King George, and I think that would be favourite, but one would have to give him an entry in the Lexus (Leopardstown). Al Ferof, owned by John Hales, had not appeared since winning last year's Paddy Power Gold Cup, as he had been held up due to a tendon problem. Nicholls told Racing UK: "We've got five weeks to get him ready for the King George and I think that race should suit him very well." The trainer has won the Christmas highlight a record seven times, twice with See More Business and an incredible five with Kauto Star.
