Henderson sets sights on Haydock and Kempton for promising Shishkin

Nicky Henderson Sets Sights on King George VI Chase for Shishkin

Renowned trainer Nicky Henderson has identified the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase as the ultimate goal for his talented horse, Shishkin. With the Betfair Chase at Haydock as a potential stepping stone, Henderson plans to campaign Shishkin over longer distances this season.

In a recent racecourse gallop at Windsor, Shishkin showcased his readiness for a potential comeback at Haydock on November 25th. Speaking about his prized nine-year-old, Henderson expressed confidence in his preparations and highlighted the significance of the King George: “The whole objective for Shishkin is one day after Christmas and that is the King George.”

Emphasizing their strategy post-King George, Henderson added: “After that race, we will decide where we go from there. He has had a racecourse gallop and the plan is to go to the Betfair Chase first, then onto the King George.”

Henderson believes that staying trips suit Shishkin best following his successful transition last season when he stepped up to an extended three miles in the Aintree Bowl. Reflecting on previous performances, Henderson stated: “He is most definitely a stayer… His win at Aintree showed that he stays three miles.”

The decision to compete in Haydock’s challenging conditions was not taken lightly by Henderson due to concerns about ground conditions. However, with limited alternatives available before heading into The King George arena, it became inevitable.

Betfair Chase:

Shishkin is among fifteen possible contenders vying for victory in this year’s Betfair Chase alongside strong competitors such as last year’s winner Protektorat and former Gold Cup champion A Plus Tard.

Potential King George VII Chase Entries:

Aside from Shishkin, other notable names on the list of nineteen initial entries for the King George include Allaho, last season’s Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs, and The Real Whacker.

With such a competitive field shaping up for both races, horse racing enthusiasts eagerly await these thrilling events that promise to showcase top-level talent battling it out on the track.