Tom Scudamore talks Thistlecrack in the King George and his other Boxing Day rides

Tom Scudamore blog: Thistlecrack King George chances

I found out last Sunday morning that Thistlecrack was definitely running in the King George rather than the novice chase. I was absolutely delighted to hear the news as it is not every year that you get to ride the favourite or second-favourite for a race of this prestige.

The owners had asked me a few questions a week ago about how I thought the horse had progressed and would cope with everything. They’ve come to the decision that it is now time to take on the big boys. We’ve had three runs over fences now and everything has gone right for him. You have to take your opportunities while they are there and that was the unanimous decision from the team.

I’m trying not to get too sucked into the Thistlecrack vs Cue Card theme because there are other good horses in the race. You only have to look back a few years ago when it was billed as Kauto Star vs Denman in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and then Imperial Commander won the race. You have to respect all the challengers in the race.

I’m a massive Cue Card fan. I’ve ridden against him on a number of occasions and he is a fantastic racehorse but so are Silviniaco Conti, Tea For Two and Josses Hill, who was particularly impressive around Huntingdon last time out. You certainly cannot take your eye off the ball.

I know the strengths of my horse. I’ve done lots of homework so I am very relaxed going into the race. I’ve got an idea of the different scenarios of how the race may pan out. When you feel prepared and ready, it makes you feel confident.

The fact that there is only a small field means there is nothing to get in the way. All the horses are there by merit and they all have every chance of winning.