King George News: Keighley Court-ing Kempton dream

Champion Court will run in the King George.

Martin Keighley is looking forward to running Champion Court in the William Hill King George VI Chase following his stable star's seasonal reappearance at Ascot on Saturday...

All roads lead to Kempton on Boxing Day after Champion Court, rated 157 by Timeform, finished second to William's Wishes, giving the winner 20lb, in a 17-furlong handicap chase.

It was his first run since being runner-up to leading Gold Cup contender Silviniaco Conti at Aintree in April.

"He's come out of it fantastic. He was bright and well straight after the run," said the Condicote handler.

"It was a good first run back. He just bumped into one well-handicapped on that ground.

"It was a great performance and he pulled a mile clear of the rest, giving them all weight as well.

"He goes straight for the King George now and has a good four weeks. That will put him spot on. Hopefully he will put up a good show."

Champion Court can be backed at 40.039/1 for the King George, with Long Run presently heading the market at 4.67/2.

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