Altior camp mull Ascot option as they ponder path to King George

Jump racing's world-record holder Altior could be seen at Ascot in the 1965 Chase on November 23 before testing his stamina in the 32Red King George VI Chase at Kempton at Christmas.

Plans for the prolific chaser, who surpassed the record of 18 consecutive victories of iconic staying hurdler Big Buck's when powering home in the Celebration Chase at Sandown in April, are far from concrete, although Kempton's winter highlight on December 26 remains an option.

How the son of 2002 Derby winner High Chaparral gets there needs further thought, however.

Top five chasers in Britain and Ireland last season

177 Kemboy
176 Cyrname
175 Altior
175 Al Boum Photo
172 Tiger Roll

Trained by Nicky Henderson for Patricia Pugh, Altior returned to action in the Tingle Creek last season, but that race comes just 19 days before the King George this term.

If the dual Champion Chase hero does head to Ascot he could be set for a mouthwatering clash with Cyrname, who is officially rated 1lb higher.

Henderson, who also revealed Altior had undergone a minor breathing operation recently, said: "All the horses are back in the yard after their summer breaks and everything is well; they're looking great.

"We have just recauterised Altior's palate for no other reason than precaution. It was done two weeks ago.

"We've all got ideas where he'll go, but we haven't sat down and discussed it. It's an important and very big decision, whether we abandon the Tingle Creek and possibly go to Ascot for the 1965 Chase with a view to the King George.

Altior: could head to Ascot in November before a tilt at the King GeorgeCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

"If you're going for the King George, I think you have to go to Ascot. That's the place you have to go to find out if he stays at all."

Altior, the general 3-1 favourite for the King George, has not raced beyond 2m2f, which he was a convincing winner over in a novice chase at Kempton in November 2016.

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