Kauto Star virtually confirmed himself a starter in the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup after delighting connections in a gallop after racing at Wincanton.
The 12-year-old was described as "50-50" for the Festival showpiece last week after it emerged he had suffered a schooling fall at Paul Nicholls' Ditcheat yard, and the trainer was keen to see how he fared in a racecourse spin with stablemate Mon Parrain.
Regular rider Ruby Walsh was on hand to put him through his paces over two miles, while Daryl Jacob teamed up with Mon Parrain, and the pair were never asked a serious question as they enjoyed the workout, quickening the pace slightly in the straight as Kauto Star finished around a head in front.
Nicholls said: "I'm very, very pleased and Ruby said he could hardly hold him. I didn't want him to do too much but they quickened up a bit. If he's all right tomorrow and schools on Monday, then I'd say we're in business.
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