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Jockey Ruby Walsh always tells it as it is and amid all the hype around Kauto Star his words may be more telling than most.
Since the nation's favourite animal crashed to earth on the gallops there have been daily bulletins regarding his fitness and his chances of featuring in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Trainer Paul Nicholls has talked through his betting site column and owner Clive Smith has given regular updates, yet it's Walsh - with a few well selected words - making the position crystal clear ona horse he admits he loves more than any other.
He explained to the Irish Post: "There's a chance Kauto Star will run, not a great chance, not even a good one. Just a chance."
Kauto Star is7/2to win a third Gold Cup, with Long Run11/8and Grands Crus 11/2.
It's the kind of talk we've become used to over recent years, as the leading rider on both sides of the Irish Sea has become the number one National Hunt icon.
Having explained that Kauto Starwill find it hard to beat Long Run under any circumstances next Friday - should he run - there can't be many left who are ready to take a punt on the Nicholls horse.
Even Walshcannot explain Kauto's incredible form this season. The horse is a phenomenon and a law unto himself and histhe jockey's onlycomment on his mount's2011/12 powerhouse performances was: "Even Paul Nicholls would struggle to explain it I think."
Whether Kauto Star makes it or not, Walsh has a great book of rides and still looks a good bet to come out on top as top jockey.
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