HUNT BALL TO RACE AT CHELTENHAM BEFORE KING GEORGE VI CHASE

HUNT Ball looks ready to make an impact in Cheltenham's Charity Challenge Gold Cup before taking part in the King George VI Chase.

As long as trainer Keiran Burke is happy with the ground conditions on Saturday, the seven-year-old has a 14-1 chance of winning the two miles five furlong race.

Owned by trainer Anthony Knott, Hunt Ball disappointed many when he was pulled up in the Paddy Power Gold Cup due to the ground turning soft.

The horse is 33-1 for his chance in the King George and Burke is determined to enter the race at Kempton on Boxing Day.

I am at Cheltenham racecourse on Saturday and I cannot wait to judge Hunt Ball in the flesh. He is a promising horse and Burke is sure of his ability.

It seems that he is taking extra care around Hunt Ball and I hope it will be proven why this weekend. I hope conditions remain suitable for him as I would hate for him to back out of the race at the last minute.

With odds up to 14-1 I fancy Hunt Ball's chances. Who agrees? Is he preferred in the King George or do you believe in him this weekend?

HUNT BALL CREATES HIGH HOPES IN JUMPS

Racing's most improved horse, Hunt Ball, has what it takes to go the extra mile of becoming a star of the jump racing season.

While being part of a training operation that has no gallops of its own, the horse's recent achievement is fantastic for owner Anthony Knott.

He has backed the horse to win £1million, an act that shows his confidence in the seven-year-old gelding.

The plan is for the Cheltenham Gold Cup to act as Hunt Ball's spring-board towards the season's two biggest titles, the King George VI Chase and the gold cup itself.

He currently stands as the second favourite for the gold cup and completing all would net a seven figure payout from bookmakers.

It would be a real fairytale for the the 'smaller' person and horse with countryside roots to come away with the major trophies. 

I am really pleased to see how a modest horse and owner has created a big impact on racing. It proves that with hard work and determination a person, no matter how popular or high-profiled, can pull off an achievement similar to Knotts with Hunt Ball.

Watch this racing team climb to the top with a unique story that will bring warmth and more positive headlines to the sport.