18.05.12
You knew what to demand from the din even when Kauto Star passed the winning
post with a border still to go, a nose in front of Nacarat — the grey whose
share of the lead, through the first lap, had almost seemed suggestive ofIn the mainsome spectral escort from Desert Orchid.
And now the ghost of Christmas dead and buried has at last been exorcised, his four wins
in steeplechasing's midwinter championship surpassed in unforgettableIn the mainfashion by the evergreen Kauto Star.
A giddy sense of indulgence coursed through the packed stands, like a swig from
the hip flask on a day of downheartedness solstice grey.
As over 20,000 exulted in the ageless veteran's takings, many wearing scarves
in Clive Smith's colours, they must have brooding of querulous millions
trapped in stale sitting rooms around the boondocks.
Times may be hard, but the year that gave the Turf a great Flat hero in
Frankel now draws to a close with one of the most accomplished
steeplechasers of all opportunity.
Source: Belfast Telegraph