Barbers Shop: could race off 10st 8lb in the Hennessy Gold Cup

  PICTURE: Edward Whitaker/racingpostpix.com  

Barbers may miss Betfair Chase for Hennessy bid

BARBERS SHOP may miss an intended clash with Kauto Star in Saturday's Betfair Chase at Haydock for a crack at the Hennessy Gold Cup a week later, trainer Nicky Henderson has revealed.

Henderson, who saddled two winners during Cheltenham's Open meeting, told racingpost.com on Monday that the Queen's 156-rated chaser could start his season at Newbury on Saturday week.

"We are certainly keeping one eye on the Hennessy, where, if Denman runs, Barbers Shop would be able to run off 10st 8lb," said the trainer.

"At Haydock, he would be competing off level weights with Kauto Star."

Henderson added: "We did have the option of starting his season in Saturday's Paddy Power Gold Cup, but in view of the very soft ground at Cheltenham, I'm pleased we didn't go there."

Barbers Shop was among the 13 horses left in the Betfair Chase at Monday's forfeit stage.