The statistics are against Kauto Star as he bids to become the first horse to regain the Cheltenham Gold Cup tomorrow, writes Paul Fielder.

No horse has ever reclaimed the Gold Cup but Kauto Star is favourite with every bookmaker - Skybet are a top price 9-4 - with trainer Paul Nicholls believing his nine-year-old has can make history.

Nicholls said: "This fellow has been the most amazing horse and he is still only nine. We go to Cheltenham bidding to do what no horse has ever done - reclaim the title.

"I know it is a frightening statistic but he has proved he still has what it takes this season with a third King George and, but for Denman last year, he would be going back to win it for a third successive time."

Looking back through previous Gold Cups will also give connections encouragement as Bregawn came third in the 1982 renewal before winning in 1983 while The Fellow was fourth in 1993 yet won chasing's Blue Riband event 12 months later.

Nicholls added: "We learnt to our cost last season that he is best when fresh and have purposely not run since Boxing Day and he is spot on for this week now. He is clearly the one they all have to beat and is as good as I have ever had him."