Townend told Betway: “At this time of year, people are always asking me for a horse to follow, and it’s so difficult because there are so many exciting horses at Willie’s, and it’s never easy to pick just one.
“King Rasko Grey would be the one I think I’m really looking forward to if I had to pick one, and even though nothing is set in stone, I’d imagine he’ll go chasing this year.
“He rides like a chaser and feels like a horse that should improve again for fences, and he’s a horse that kept on progressing throughout the season last year, so he’s a very exciting horse to look forward to.
“I really liked the way he got down and dirty to win at Punchestown at the end of the season, and that attitude will stand him in good stead for going chasing.
“It’s never easy to predict which way the winner of the Turners (Novices’ Hurdle) will go trip wise, because you need to have a turn of foot to win that, and I think he could go either way with regards to trip.
“He had the pace in the Turners to be in control of the race, and then he outstayed them at Punchestown, so I just think he’s very straightforward and he’s a horse I’m really excited about this year.”
