War Of Attrition had not run for the best part of two years before Thursday

War Of Attrition was too good for Kicking King in the battle of the former Cheltenham Gold Cup winners as they both returned after injury.

War Of Attrition, who has not run since Boxing Day 2006, barely put a foot wrong in the Star "Best For Racing Coverage" Chase at Punchestown.

The 2006 Gold Cup winner tracked 2005 champion Kicking King before going on to win by 19 lengths in Ireland.

"You couldn't ask for more from the horse," said trainer Mouse Morris.

"Hopefully he'll be sound in the morning - that's the race for us now. I've plenty of plans at the back of my head, but that is where they will stay until tomorrow.

"It's been a long time and his owner has been very patient, probably more patient than I have. I think he is more of a man of a horse now."

Kicking King's trainer Tom Taaffe said: "I thought they went fast enough on the ground.

"I was pleased with the way he jumped but he got tired and ran out of petrol. Hopefully he'll come on for the run."

VC Bet and William Hill both make War Of Attrition a 25-1 chance to reclaim his Cheltenham crown in March, with Cashmans shorter at 20s.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version