Elliott says Gerri Colombe plans remain "up in the air"

Gordon Elliott warned on Racing TV on Sunday that ante-post favourite Gerri Colombe is not certain to run in next week’s Ladbrokes King George VI Chase. 

The prolific seven-year-old, beaten just once in ten races under Rules, is a best-priced 11/4 for the Kempton showpiece but his trainer, seeking a first win in the race, says plans for his rising star remain ”up in the air”. 

The Savills Chase at Leopardstown on December 28 remains an alternative option. 

“I’ll make my mind up this week over whether to send him or not,” Elliott told Gary O’Brien after winning the Listed bumper with The Enabler at Navan. 

Asked what would influence his decision, Elliott smiled and said “probably whatever side of the bed I get out”. 

He then expanded, saying: “I just want to wait and see the ground and have a chat with Brian [Acheson, owner) and the whole team to see what we do. 

“I’m up in the air where to go. Everyone says Kempton’s too tight, while Leopardstown could be a hotter race. He worked well the other day and Jack [Kennedy] was very happy with him. He’s in great form but we don’t need to commit now.” 

Acheson also owns the Mouse Morris-trained Gentlemansgame, conqueror of Bravemansgame  in last month’s Charlie Hall Chase. He’s entered in the Savills Chase but not the £250,000  King George, although there is a supplementary stage on Wednesday. 

Elliott said: “I’m not sure what his plans are. I’m sure Brian will want to split them up.” 

Gerri Colombe is a best-priced 13/2 for the Savills, with Gentlemansgame quoted at 4/1. Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Galopin Des Champs is the general 7/4 favourite for that contest. 

Meanwhile, The Real Whacker is on course to run in the King George, Patrick Neville said at Carlisle after saddling his first winner since late April.

Conqueror of Gerri Colombe in last season's Brown Advisory Novices' Chase, The Real Whacker disappointed on his return when pulled up in the Paddy Power Chase, although he suffered an over-reach. "He's in great form and we are looking forward to it," Neville said. "His form is good and we are not worried about any others in the race, just our own horse."