CLIVE SMITH SAYS KAUTO STAR IS "NEARLY THERE" WITH HIS RECOVERY

Clive Smith has announced that Kauto Star is "nearly there" with his recovery from a fall during schooling.

Racing's most popular steeplechaser is still facing doubt about his entry in the Cheltenham Gold Cup but is looking much better since Paul Nicholls claimed he was 50/50 for the high-profile race.

The decision of the twelve-year-old's entry will not be made until Monday so that owner Smith and trainer Nicholls are able to assess to response to a racecourse gallop at Wincanton on Friday.

Kauto Star is a strong horse; he clearly enjoys racing so it is no wonder why he is Ruby Walsh's favourite. 

He has a lot to prove though as I know that many punters are favouring Long Run, the younger horse.

But Walsh can hold his own on the steeplechaser. Even if Kauto Star is not 100 per cent, Walsh will be able to boost him to that. They make a great team and I wouldn't be surprised if they make more headlines together. 

NOBODY PUTS BABY IN THE CORNER

BABY Mix made a superb British debut today in the JCB Triumph Hurdle Trial Juvenile Hurdle as he beat favourite Hinterland.

Ruby Walsh put Hinterland in an early lead in the first race at Cheltenham, but Baby Mix stormed ahead along the final furlong, beating Walsh and five other rivals.

Paddy Brennan jumped the last hurdle fluently, leaving the 2-7 favourite firmly behind as he charged ahead by seven lengths.

Baby Mix won at 14/1.

Kauto Star wins Betfair Chase at Haydock

Paul Nicholls claimed another victory in the Betfair Chase at Haydock with Kauto Star.

It is Kauto's fourth win for the Betfair Chase - silencing critics who voiced their opinions on how the 11-year old was not as successful as he used to be.

Clive Smith's 6-1 winner jumped fluently under Ruby Walsh's control and fought off Long Run's challenge over the last three jumps.

Nicholls was seen punching the air with triumph as Walsh crossed the winning post in prime position.

Kauto Star won by eight lengths.