Lucinda Russell’s William Hill blog: Giovinco well capable of winning the Kauto Star

William Hill ambassador Lucinda Russell gives her thoughts on her runners across four meetings on Boxing Day, including Giovinco in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton.

Kempton, Tuesday

I’ve been absolutely delighted with Giovinco (1.20pm) since Sandown. He ran a massive race there three weeks ago, jumping really powerfully. He was just outstayed by Stay Away Fay and while he’ll need to step up again, I think he’s capable of it.

The sharpness of Kempton should be ideal for him as he’s such a strong traveller. It’s a proper race, but I’ve got every confidence he’s up to the task. He’s a very exciting horse for Boxing Day and moving forward.

Market Rasen, Tuesday

Artic Breeze (1.15pm) hasn’t shown much over hurdles, so we’re sticking a tongue strap on him. Hopefully the move to fences will bring about some improvement.

Inis Oirr (2.57pm) will certainly improve for the step up in trip as he’s very much a stayer. He’s still a novice but ran a cracker when second at Musselburgh last time, and being a novice I hope there’s plenty of improvement left in him. We’ve also popped a pair of cheekpieces on, which should help him keep his eyes on the job a bit better as he can almost relax too much in his races.

Sedgefield, Tuesday

Just the one for us at Sedgefield in the shape of Backdoorflush (3.10pm). The outing at Cheltenham last time was probably a bit too much for her so early in her career and this should be much more her bag. She ran well at the track on her debut and I’d expect a similar performance here would see her very competitive.

Wetherby, Tuesday

Lady In The Park (11.52am) has been unlucky to bump into a couple on her last two starts and while I think this is quite a warm race, she should go well again. She’s a mare that I really rate and I think the step up in trip will really help her. If she can put her best foot forward, I’d expect her to be very competitive.

Do Your Job (2.45pm) is on a bit of a recovery mission. We’ve tried him at both Aintree and Cheltenham and this looks a bit of an easier task. We’re putting cheekpieces on him and along with the drop in grade, I’d be hopeful he can get back on track. His form as a novice is up there with the best of these and Patrick [Wadge] should get on great with him.