Aces Set For Betfair Outing

Aces Four remains on target for the Betfair Chase at Haydock later this month after satisfying connections on his seasonal bow at Wetherby.

The eight-year-old travelled supremely well for much of the Charlie Hall Chase before blowing up badly three fences form home in a race won by Ollie Magern.

Aces Four was eventually pulled up by Graham Lee but trainer Ferdy Murphy reports the gelding to have returned home sound.

'It pleased us and confused us as well because Graham says he shows that much speed he is not convinced he will stay,' Murphy told Racing UK.

'I always felt, and I still do, that he will stay (three miles). He will improve an awful lot for that.

'He travelled into the straight really well, they went a good gallop and Graham did the sensible thing.

'The target has always been the King George and if he didn't get the trip there, we could always step back for the Ryanair. But if he goes well in the King George, everybody's dream is the Gold Cup.

'He'll run in the Betfair next at Haydock (November 24) as long as it's not too soft, then it will be the King George and one run before the Gold Cup ? hopefully!'

(C) PA Sport