Florida Pearl has been confirmed on course for his bid to repeat last year's victory in the Pertemps King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on St Stephen's Day. The Willie Mullins-trained 10-year-old has had an interrupted preparation for the contest but Mullins now reports his stable star in great form. Riding arrangements for Florida Pearl in the King George have yet to be finalised.
The Co Carlow handler is hoping to mount a strong challenge for the major races at Kempton with Davenport Milenium an intended runner in the Pertemps Christmas Hurdle, and Ballyamber and One Night Out both possibles for the Pertemps Learning Feltham Novices' Chase.
There is a stg£100,000 bonus up for grabs for any trainer, jockey or owner who wins all three of the December 26 championship events.
Meanwhile, Mick Fitzgerald is set to maintain his partnership with Bacchanal in preference to stablemate Marlborough when the pair line up in the Pertemps King George VI Chase. The two Nicky Henderson-trained horses were both in action on the schooling grounds this morning and pleased their handler with their condition.
Filed by Laura Reynolds
