Nicholls delighted with Al Ferof Paul Nicholls revealed that he was delighted with Al Ferof's third at Ascot on Saturday. Last year's Supreme Novices' Hurdle winner has made a smooth transition to chasing, winning his first two starts before being stepped up into open company in the Grade 1 Victor Chandler Chase on Saturday. The grey son of Dom Alco performed with credit in finishing a five length third behind Somersby and Nicholls revealed on his exclusive column at www.betfair.com/paulnicholls that he was delighted with the run: "Although he jumped a bit novicey on occasions, I was delighted with his fencing in the main. "He wasn't foot perfect, but that is exactly why I ran him in the race. Namely, for the experience in a strongly run, high class race that he is very likely to get in the Arkle - and yesterday's race will clearly stand him in very good stead." The Champion Trainer also revealed that winning rider Ruby Walsh was not only pleased with the run but had an eager eye on the future too. "I can tell you that Ruby (Walsh) was thrilled with yesterday as an Arkle trial. But he also turned round to John Hales yesterday and said 'what a ride he'd be in the King George next season'."
