Long Run firms up for King George

Long Run has firmed up for the King George VI Chase following confirmation of Sir Des Champs’ absence.

Nicky Henderson’s charge, winner of the 2010 renewal, has been prominent in the betting since his second to Silviniaco Conti in the Betfair Chase. A string of leading fancies have been forced out, including Al Ferof (injury) and Sizing Europe (unsuitable ground) and with Sir Des Champs set to remain in Ireland, Long Run is now 2/1 at bet365.

Punters have latched on to the fact that Long Run is a guaranteed stayer, which will be required on likely heavy ground at Kempton. He is faced by a number of speed horses, Cue Card, Riverside Theatre and Kauto Stone amongst them, and it would appear punters feel a slog through the mud is on the cards.