Frodon ready for challenge
Paul Nicholls' four-year-old has taken extremely well to fences and despite receiving 7lb from his rivals with the weight-for-age allowance he will have to take another big step forward
FLEDGLING fencer Frodon goes for Grade One glory in the 32Red Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day following his victory in the Caspain Caviar Gold Cup.
The four-year-old defied his tender age to take top honours in the prestigious, and highly-competitive, handicap chase at Cheltenham.
Though he is now stepping out of handicap company, the weight-for-age allowance means Frodon will receive 7lb from his nine rivals.
His trainer Paul Nicholls also saddles Present Man, while Nicky Henderson is double-handed with Carraci Apache and Might Bite.
Dan Skelton is another trainer set for two runners in the shape of Churchtown Champ and Virgilio.
After having decided to let Thistlecrack take his chance in the King George VI Chase on the same card, trainer Colin Tizzard's chances rest with Royal Vacation.
The Tony Martin-trained Anibale Fly is the sole Irish challenger, while Johnny Farrelly's Amore Alto and Minella Daddy, from Peter Bowen's Haverfordwest stable in Pembrokeshire, complete the 10-strong field.
The three defectors at the final declaration stage were Harry Fry's American and the Gordon Elliott-trained pair of A Toi Phil and Jetstream Jack.
