INKBERROW trainer Tom Gretton is hopeful talented chaser Kauto Riko can continue his progress this season.

Gretton already has his developing string in full work ahead of another exciting jump racing campaign.

Leading the way for the yard heading into 2019 will be Kauto Riko - a relation to the great Kauto Star.

Despite a mistake at the first which put paid to his seasonal bow at Aintree last week, the seven-year-old is fit and firing as he now looks to build on last season’s fine novice chase campaign.

The son of Ballingarry won twice last term and could be next seen out at the end of the month, with Wetherby’s Castleford Chase a possible early-season target.

“He’s done well over the summer and, even though it was frustrating the other day, the day at the races and the day out should have sharpened him up anyway,” said Gretton.

“He’ll be able to run in all the better races this season and hopefully stepping up to 2m 5f will also bring out more improvement in him. He won over that distance over hurdles and even though we have the option of dropping back to 2m we’ll also start looking for further with him too.”

Another Middle Bouts Farm resident that could be in the winner’s enclosure again is consistent grey Lickpenny Larry.

The seven-year-old, who was born, raised and is now trained in the village, bagged victories in handicap chases at Plumpton and Ffos Las last term for owner Alan Clarke.

“Hopefully there are more races to be won,” said Gretton. “He’ll be out in early December, needs soft ground and will stick to 2m for now.”

Popular chaser Little Jimmy will embark on his final season in training.

The has won eight times in his career since his debut back in 2011 and his trainer is determined for the 11-year-old to sign off in style.

“He’ll definitely win one this season but it would be great to get two wins and get to 10 with him.

“He’s been a star for us and we really want to sign-off with a win. The handicapper has dropped him a little now so we’re probably as well placed with him as we have been for some time.”

Gretton says he’s also looking forward to running Lassana Angle over hurdles.

The High Chaparral filly remained on the flat after joining the yard earlier this year but is now being prepared for an imminent bow over obstacles.

“She’s schooled well, is a nice prospect and one I’m really looking forward to,” he added.

Finally, Tom Gretton Racing Club horse Bagan will have one more run before enjoying a winter break.

The exciting prospect will be aimed at local tracks in the spring once the ground starts to improve again.

The club, which gives racing enthusiasts an affordable taste of outright ownership, will hold its annual open day next Sunday (November 25).

The event, which is open to anyone interested in joining as well as current members, will run from 10.30am at Middle Bouts Farm, Bouts Lane, Inkberrow, WR7 4HP.

There will be a parade of horses, a chance to see them being exercised and meet the jockeys as well refreshments available with proceeds going to the Racehorse Sanctuary.

There will also be a discount for those who join the club on the day and a new club horse will also be unveiled.

For more information, visit tomgrettonracing.co.uk