Nicholls looking forward to Kauto hat-trick bid Paul Nicholls is looking forward to running Kauto Star in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. His charge has looked unbeatable at the Sunbury track in 2006 and 2007 but followed an imperious reappearance at Down Royal with a final-fence hiccup in the Betfair Chase at Haydock last time. "He just slipped on landing at Haydock and it was one of those things," the trainer said. "I'm not sure, but we might miss that race next year as it's not the galloping track it used to be. "He's a lot more relaxed this year. Ruby Walsh said he felt as good as ever at Down Royal and when he is on top form he's very, very good. "He's had some seriously tough races and come back again and you can't blame him if he can't always perform to the highest level."
