Rubaud Triumphs Again at Kempton

Paul Nicholls’ six-year-old hurdler, Rubaud, made a successful return to the track, securing a second consecutive victory in Listed company at Kempton. Rubaud, who began last season with a win in the TrustATrader Approved And Reviewed Trades People Hurdle and later claimed Grade Two honours at Wincanton, proved his class once more with a dominant performance.

Under a confident ride from Harry Cobden, Rubaud, priced at 9-4, pulled away decisively after the final flight, winning by seven and a half lengths ahead of Kihavah. The 7-4 favourite, Casa No Mento, was unexpectedly pulled up, leaving Rubaud to shine.

Trainer Paul Nicholls expressed his satisfaction with the gelding’s performance, noting that despite some of his horses needing more time to get into form, Rubaud showed his quality. Looking ahead, Nicholls revealed that while Rubaud is being prepared for a switch to fences, he will first target next month’s Elite Hurdle, aiming for back-to-back victories.

Nicholls acknowledged that the gelding’s future likely lies over fences, as the prospect of facing Constitution Hill and other top hurdlers in Grade One races might prove too challenging. However, he emphasised Rubaud’s excellent jumping ability, which will serve him well as he transitions to chasing.

For now, Rubaud is set to head to Wincanton to defend his title, with Nicholls optimistic about his hurdling form unless a top-tier rival like Constitution Hill emerges.