Racing: Sound out of King George

Sound Man, who had been second favourite for the King George VI Chase, is likely to miss the Boxing Day feature despite being one of 11 horses declared yesterday. Edward O'Grady, his trainer, said: "He will go now for the Comet Chase at Ascot on 5 February."

The withdrawals are Challenger Du Luc, Crystal Spirit, Kadi, Suny Bay and Double Symphony. Jenny Pitman has left in Nahthen Lad despite a poor effort on Wednesday.

Tote: 4-6 One Man, 100-30 Rough Quest (from 9-2), 12-1 Mr Mulligan (from 14-1), Strong Promise, Trying Again, 14-1 Barton Bank (from 16-1), 25- 1 Nahthen Lad (from 16-1), Algan, Couldn't Be Better, 150-1 Oatis Regrets.