‘The King George is made for him’ – Nicholls confident of capturing major prize 🗣️

It was a big day at Wetherby for the Paul Nicholls team on Saturday. The big early season clash between old rivals Bravemansgame and Ahoy Senor promised to be a match to savour. Both star novices last season, the pair were looking to establish themselves as challengers for the major staying races this time round. Bravemansgame won in stylish fashion, jumping like a stag and travelling like a dream. According to his trainer, it is now all systems go for Kempton’s Christmas showpiece. Paul Nicholls has won the King George an outrageous 12 times and will be going for lucky number 13 this year. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.

‘That’s what we wanted to see’

Nicholls was delighted with the performance of Bravemansgame, rightfully feeling vindicated for his public displays of confidence in the Gelding. The Ditcheat-based trainer said: “That’s what we wanted to see[…] I’ve always thought the King George is made for him.” If any trainer knows what it takes to win the King George, it is most certainly Paul Nicholls. This year’s renewal could be particularly hot with Allaho looking likely to make the trip over. Bravemansgame’s performance at Wetherby catapulted him into joint favouritism for the big race with Mullins’ two-time Ryanair Chase winner.

‘The best feel he’s ever given’

His jockey Harry Cobden also echoed Nicholls’ assertions that the horse is stronger this season having developed physically over the summer. The trainer also added: “He’s right up there. We’ve always thought he was decent on his day. I think that’s probably as good a performance as he’s done. Harry was thrilled with him. He’s a young horse and he’s improving.” As the horse’s trainer believes connections have the finished article on their hands, you best believe he’ll be primed and ready to go on Boxing Day.

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