Kauto can star at Punchestown

Kauto Star will make his first appearance at the Punchestown Festival when he runs in the Guinness Gold Cup.

The 11-year-old ran a great race in defeat in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, finishing third to Long Run and stablemate Denman.

Trainer Paul Nicholls said: "He had a hard race and ran an absolute blinder. It certainly put all those who said he should retired right.

"He'll now go to Punchestown [May 4]. He's not going to Aintree so it should be ideal."

Nicholls' Denman, who showed he also retains plenty of ability at the age of 11, could face Long Run again in the Totesport Bowl at Aintree on April 7.

The champion trainer added: "Denman ran a mighty race, too. He probably ran the best race he has for some time.

"The plan is to go to Aintree with him now. He's only had two runs this season, we're very happy with him and we'd just like to see some rain before Aintree."