Richards Looking Forward To Kauto Clash

Nicky Richards is in positive mood as he looks ahead to the extended two-mile-five-furlong Ascot Chase, in which his stable star Monet's Garden could clash with Kauto Star.

Richards' grey won the Grade One when it was run over two miles and three furlongs last term, but may have to trump Paul Nicholls' Gold Cup favourite on February 16 if he is to secure back-to-back renewals.

That may not be beyond him, however, as he memorably lowered Kauto Star's colours at Aintree in October, although he was in receipt of a stone in weight on that occasion.

Richards said: 'It will make it very interesting.

'One thing is for sure, Kauto Star is an absolute superstar, there is no doubt about that.

'But we know that our fellow loves the track and the ground should be in his favour, but then again it will also be in Kauto's.

'The race is over two furlongs further than it was last year but that shouldn't make too much difference.

'It will certainly be great for racing if they clash. Every time Kauto runs it is great for racing and there are so many good horses around at the minute, Mr Nicholls seems to have half a dozen!

'But it is set in stone that Monet's will go there, there are not that many options for him.

'It would be great to win and he has won some great races for us, but you can't win them all.'

(C) PA Sport