[denphone]

NICHOLLS LEADS THE PRAISE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Paul Nicholls sang the praises of Kauto Star after announcing the decision to retire the legendary chaser at the age of 12.

Connections had been considering a tilt at an incredible sixth King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day, but have instead decided to call it a day.

"We have had nine superb years with the horse but, after seeing him in his work these past few weeks, myself, Clifford (Baker, head lad) and Dan (Skelton, assistant trainer) were of the opinion that the time had arrived to retire him," Nicholls said in his Betfair column.

"Of course, as owner, the final decision rested with Clive (Smith), but he agreed that the horse had done enough.

WALSH SALUTES 'HORSE OF A LIFETIME'

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...26#39;&day=Thu

Ruby Walsh described Kauto Star as "incredible" after the announcement that the 12-year-old has run his last race in an illustrious career.

Walsh partnered the French import to 17 victories, including both his Cheltenham Gold Cup triumphs and his five wins in the King George VI Chase.

"He's the horse of my lifetime. I'm very lucky to be the one who got to ride him. He was an incredible horse from the beginning, from when he won his novice chase in Newbury all the way to his fifth King George," said Walsh.