The Jukebox Man was the star of Christmas 2025, winning the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day after an exhilarating battle with his rivals.

The impressive sight of four of the greatest chasers clearing the last in near-unison and battling to the finish has been woven into sporting history. As legendary jockey Davy Russell commented in his opinion piece in Horse & Hound this week, “So many people were shouting for so many different horses, it was fantastic.”

At only eight years old, the Ben Pauling-trained The Jukebox Man is a relative newcomer to the top tier of the sport. But he and jockey Ben Jones have forged an endearing and hugely successful partnership with their King George triumph coming in the wake of several Graded successes and high-profile placings.

The son of Ask was bred by Paul Cunningham and was snapped up by Ben Pauling after the young horse won his first point-to-point in 2022.

So what is The Jukebox Man like at home? What does owner Harry Redknapp say about his “dream horse”? Could the celebrations continue to the Cheltenham Festival in March, as he is among the Cheltenham Gold Cup entries? Here is what connections have to say about the heroic and much-loved The Jukebox Man.

The Jukebox Man: “a power-packed package”

“The most wonderful thing about The Jukebox Man is that he is so versatile,” says trainer Ben Pauling. “You can make the running or you can drop in. He is not afraid of a battle. He has enough class and ability to run over any trip.

“He used to lug left in behind horses – he was just a bit green and gawky – but Ruby Walsh said after he ran at Newbury that fences have made this horse a lot faster and he is right. People crib him for jumping left but when he goes right-handed he is as straight as a die. He is just a bit of a character with a big engine and a big heart.

“I don’t know of a more economical jumper than when he is on song. He has not lost a modicum of distance over any fence. Jumping is his biggest forte and he seems to land running. At Haydock Park he showed exuberance; he’s a power-packed package of aggression and ability.”

Jockey Ben Jones also offers full credit to The Jukebox Man’s work rider Ollie Wardle.

“The Jukebox Man has always had the right engine and we just gave him some time and let him fill out,” he says. “I’m still not 100% sure we have got to the bottom of him. He is such a professional.”

Owner Harry Redknapp: “He’s taken on the Real Madrids and Barcelonas”

For owner Harry Redknapp, former manager at Portsmouth, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, it is “a dream to have a horse as good as The Jukebox Man”.

“He wasn’t five hundred thousand pounds or anything like that, but he has outgrown all our expectations,” he says. “Ben Pauling said [before the King George], ‘Harry, I’ve got him in such great form and he has come on a bundle from the Haydock Park run.’ He had him spot on.

“I was so proud just to have a runner in the King George, but to have the winner is special. What a race, what a finish and what courage he showed. It’s right up there with my best achievements – we have gone into the Champions League, taking on the Real Madrids and the Barcelonas. The Jukebox Man proved he can compete with them, and win against them. The guts the horse showed was amazing.

“I love racing, I love the game and people in it, so to have a winner on the big stage is fantastic.”

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Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man wins thrilling King George VI Chase on Boxing Day

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Three-time Irish champion jockey and twice Grand National winner Davy Russell on some thrilling races in England and Ireland over the festive period – and being grateful to Irish politicians

Christmas racing on both sides of the Irish Sea was brilliant this year. The King George VI Chase at Kempton was a real highlight – from the turn in, everyone who had an interest in one of the horses had a winning chance, it was that close. So many people were shouting for so many different horses.

The King George result came down to a mere bob of the head, underlining just how important the whole race is – it’s vital not to miss [a stride at] a fence or get out of position early on when the margins are so tight.

Cheltenham Festival and Grade One winner Gaelic Warrior (third) ran his race, Jango Baie (fourth) came out of the contest with credit and last year’s winner Banbridge showed his liking for Kempton and put in a seasonal best to be second.

The Jukebox Man was exceptional though and it was a brilliant result for everyone involved with him, all of whom are real characters. Having Harry Redknapp as owner adds another bit of spice to the story.

Their success marked a changing of the guard and is brilliant for the sport. Ben Jones is a real up-and-coming jockey and, while the hard-working Ben Pauling is obviously an established trainer, he’s been trying to make the breakthrough to winning these big races and he’s done it now.

An uncertain future

Kempton’s future is a real worry, with continued talk about the track’s sale for development. This has been rumbling for a long time so The Jockey Club needs to concentrate on investing in and highlighting its other premier tracks. Hopefully the huge attendances at this year’s Christmas Festival will help Kempton’s cause – it was a theme that continued at racecourses everywhere over the festive period.

Leopardstown was unbelievable with a young crowd of racegoers and a party atmosphere, while I’ve never experienced anything like Tramore on New Year’s Day – it was on fire, which is absolutely brilliant for the sport. With more exciting meetings coming up, including the Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park, I hope we see more of the same.

The big race in Ireland over Christmas, the Savills Chase at Leopardstown, wasn’t disappointing exactly but I feel the King George was a deeper race to this Irish showpiece where we saw big names getting beaten. It looks as if there’s a change coming in that section – these things come in waves and we’ve seen the same horses for a while now.

When I looked at the race, I thought a new name might be crowned as we’ve seen most of the other horses for so long and there has to be a change somewhere. I fancied the winner, Affordale Fury with Sam Ewing riding, for that reason and it was great that his trainer Noel Meade got his day in the sun because he’s a great horseman.

Gordon Elliott’s 18 winners at Christmas was an unbelievable achievement and he claimed some big pots too. Gordon always tends to lead the trainers’ championship at this time of year, then Willie Mullins takes over in the new year, but there’s a slightly different feeling to it this year.

Gordon excelled over the Christmas period and with a successful Dublin Racing Festival and a couple of other good meetings, he could be playing a bigger role in the championship this time around.

Another horse you’d give huge credit to was the Barry Connell-trained Marine Nationale in the Grade One chase at Leopardstown. He was almost on the floor, coming to a complete standstill, at an early fence and yet I was really impressed how he came back and finished just half a length behind winner Solness.

Romeo Coolio also caught the eye in the novice chase there. He really toughed it out under Jack Kennedy and whether the form is good enough or not I don’t know, but he showed his liking for racing with a brilliant attitude.

Being bullied out

My family and I enjoyed a good bit of hunting over Christmas and we’ll be getting plenty more in over the next few weeks. I really appreciate how lucky we are in Ireland that our government stood up for hunting and its future is now secure, whereas the opposite is happening in England.

In December, the Irish Parliament overwhelmingly overturned a bill to ban hunting and it was very pleasing to hear politicians speak in favour of our country life and the importance of our way of living, whereas English politicians seem to be bullying the country out of hunting. It’s sad to see.

● What was your experience of Christmas racing? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance for your thoughts to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

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Former Premier League football manager Harry Redknapp had an anxious wait at Kempton Park on Boxing Day to hear whether his own The Jukebox Man had won the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase in a photo finish.

Jockey Ben Jones had no such concerns and celebrated after passing the post between Banbridge and Gaelic Warrior. He turned out to be correct – although the result was closer than he initially believed, being awarded to his Ben Pauling-trained ride by the official distance of just a nose.

“It is a dream, to have a horse that good,” Mr Redknapp told ITV Racing. “To come here on King George day and I was so proud to just to have a runner here, but to have the winner is special.

“What a race he’s won. When they came to him, I thought he was beat and would finish fourth. But he’s come again and the guts the horse has shown is just amazing.”

Turning into the final straight all eight runners were in contention as the steadily run race turned into a sprint.

The Jukebox Man jumped the third last with a narrow lead from Djelo; at the second last four horses rose together, then Banbridge stretched his nose in front over the final fence.

But the race was not over and The Jukebox Man galloped back into pole position as he, Banbridge and Gaelic Warrior flashed past the post in this ultra-competitive edition of the famous Group One.

Ben Jones, who was riding in the race for the first time, said: “I thought I’d won by a head, I didn’t think I had anything to worry about, but then the girls got to me and they thought it was a lot closer than I thought.

“Full credit to Ben, Harry and Ollie [Wardle, who rides the horse out at home]. He’s always had a right engine and just to give him some time to fill out – I’m still not 100 per cent sure that we’ve got to the bottom of him. It’s brilliant. I’m just delighted for everyone at home.”

Trainer Ben Pauling added: “This means everything, we’re always trying to elevate ourselves to the next level. When you’ve got good horses you want them to perform on the big days. I was delighted it was a proper ding-dong of a race, and you want to win the good ones.

“Harry has been an exceptional owner for me. I’ve always had huge faith in this horse and so has Harry. This is the best we’ve achieved to date.”

King George VI Chase 2025 results

• The Jukebox Man, ridden by Ben Jones, trained by Ben Pauling
• Banbridge, ridden by Sean Bowen, trained by Joseph O’Brien
• Gaelic Warrior, ridden by Paul Townend, trained by Willie Mullins
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Watch the King George VI Chase on TV this Boxing Day and get a front-row seat for one of the most popular sporting events over the Christmas period.

The King George VI Chase Day at Kempton Park stages some of the most important races in the Jumps calendar – not only the famous Grade 1 showpiece, the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase, but also the Christmas Hurdle and Kauto Star Chase.

At a glance

• King George VI Chase dates: 26 December 2025
• TV coverage: ITV (UK, FREE), Racing TV or Sky Sports Racing
• Watch King George VI Chase from anywhere: Use this NordVPN deal

How to watch the King George VI Chase

ITV will screen all the action live and for free, while Racing TV (Sky channel 424/Virgin Media 536) and Sky Sports Racing (Sky channel 415/Virgin Media 519) will broadcast via their subscription-based services.

Free ITV coverage

ITV Racing will broadcast racing from Kempton – as well as Aintree and Wetherby – on ITV1 from 12:30–15:00. You can watch on TV or online via ITVX.

The King George VI Chase will start at 14:30.

How to watch the King George VI Chase live from anywhere

Coverage on ITVX is geo-blocked outside the UK. A VPN, though, will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

A Virtual Private Network can alter your device’s digital location, bypassing geo-restrictions and unlocking your equestrian streams wherever you happen to be. VPNs also work wonders for your internet security, encrypting your information to keep you safe online.

There are many VPN providers out there, with some more reliable and safe than others. We’d suggest using a paid-for service such as NordVPN, where you can get 74% off, which offers a 100% risk-free money back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service any time within the first 30-days, then you can cancel with no penalties at all.

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Which horse has won more King George VI Chases than any other, plus other key facts about this historic Boxing Day race

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Irish raider Bainbridge pounced late on Il Est Francais, who had led from flag fall until the final fence, to top the Ladbrokes King George VI results at Kempton today (26 December).

The Joseph O’Brien-trained eight-year-old, who is owned by long-term racing supporter Ronnie Bartlett, was ridden by Paul Townend today. It was a well-executed plan by the trainer and connections as this race became this horse’s target after his Champion Chase win at Punchestown in April.

“It’s dream stuff to win a King George,” said Mr O’Brien, son of the great trainer, Aidan. “It’s really special and I grew up watching races like this. Paul gave him a great ride and I feel a bit for JJ [Slevin], who has an association with the horse but had commitments in Ireland.

“It is a special win – he’s been a special horse for a number of years and is such a dream. Speed is emphasised here more than some places and I think that panned out well for him, but I did think Il Est Francais had gone and won. Paul got him into a great rhythm which helped him to stay.”

Paul Townend said: “I felt I could catch Il Est Francais – I thought it was really on at the second-last.”

Prior to today, the last time Banbridge ran over three miles was when finishing 12th of 14 runners in the Sefton Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree in April 2022.

“Stamina was a question mark going into this so I was conscious to keep a hold of him,” continued Paul.”

French runner Il Est Francais, who won the Grade One Kauto Star Novices’ Chase on this day last year for trainers Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, owners Richard Kelvin-Hughes and Hara De Saint-Voir and jockey James Reveley, put considerable distance between himself and the rest of the field for the majority of this year’s King George VI. His jumping was exemplary, bar the last, where he got in a little tight, which cost him momentum and gave the advantage to the fast-approaching Banbridge.

“It’s a shame because he pinged every fence but he was running out of petrol two out and I couldn’t ask him for a big one at the last, but I still felt I might win,” explained James, who ultimately finished second, 1¾ lengths down. “He ran his heart out.”

The Venetia Williams-trained L’Homme Presse run a great race to finish 11¾ lengths behind the winner in third under Charlie Deutsch. This was a valiant performance by this nine-year-old, owned by Dfa Racing, having last been seen finishing fourth in this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup in March.

“He ran really well on his first run back,” said Charlie. “The front two managed to keep going but he ran all the way to the line and I was over the moon with him.”

The 11/4 favourite, Spillane’s Tower, who is six years old, ran a little greenly under Mark Walsh for trainer James Joseph Mangan to finish fifth in the King George VI results, while The Real Whacker ran a solid race under Gavin Sheehan for trainer Patrick Neville to finish fourth.

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On Boxing Day (26 December), we will be treated to the sight of some of the greatest National Hunt horses currently in training in the UK going head-to-head in the King George VI Chase, a horse race that has become synonymous with Boxing Day.

Here are 13 things you need to know about this great race…

1. The King George VI Chase first ran in 1937 and was named after the newly crowned king.

2. The first race was won by Southern Hero who, to-date, remains the oldest winner of the race at 12 years old.

3. It is held during the Christmas Festival at Kempton Park Racecourse in Surrey.

4. The race is over a distance of three miles and consists of 18 chase fences.

5. It was only run twice before World War II, during which Kempton Park was closed for racing and used as a prisoner-of-war camp.

6. The most successful horse to run in the King George VI is Kauto Star (pictured top alongside Long Run), who won it a remarkable five times (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011).

7. The leading jockey of the King George VI Chase is Ruby Walsh, who won it five times — all aboard Kauto Star.

8. The leading trainer over the race’s history is Paul Nicholls — See More Business (1997, 1999), Kauto Star (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011), Silviniaco Conti (2013, 2014), Clan Des Obeaux (2018, 2019) and Bravemansgame (2022).

9. The great grey, Desert Orchid won the race four times before bowing out in the 1991 race. He attended Kempton Park to parade every Boxing Day until his death in 2006, aged 27.

10. It is a Grade One race and this year offers £148,098 in prize money to the winner.

11. The race will be shown live on ITV and RacingTV at 2.30pm.

12. The current betting market for the 2024 running of the race has Spillane’s Tower, who is trained by Irish trainer James Joseph Mangan, as the favourite, in what is a top class line-up for this season’s renewal.

Who are the runners in the 2024 race?

Let’s take a look at this year‘s runners and riders, plus their odds, so that if you fancy it, you can have a flutter.

These runners and riders, plus the odds, are correct as of 23 December. Odds may vary depending on your bookmaker.

Horse: Spillane’s Tower | Jockey: Mark Walsh

Trainer: James Joseph Mangan | Odds: 7/2

Horse: Grey Dawning | Jockey: Harry Skelton

Trainer: Dan Skelton | Odds: 5/1

Horse: Il Est Francais | Jockey: James Reveley 

Trainer: Noel George & Amanda Zetterholm | Odds: 5/1

Horse: Banbridge | Jockey: TBC 

Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Odds: 6/1

Horse: Corbetts Cross | Jockey: Mr Derek O’Connor 

Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Odds: 12/1

Horse: L’Homme Presse | Jockey: Charlie Deutsch

Trainer: Venetia Williams | Odds: 12/1

Horse: Envoi Allen | Jockey: Rachael Blackmore 

Trainer: Henry De Bromhead | Odds: 16/1

Horse: Bravemansgame | Jockey: Harry Cobden 

Trainer: Paul Nicholls | Odds: 20/1

Horse: Juntos Gananmos | Jockey: Felix De Giles 

Trainer: D Cottin | Odds: 22/1

Horse: The Real Whacker | Jockey: Gavin Sheehan 

Trainer: Patrick Neville | Odds: 33/1

Horse: General En Chef | Jockey: Benjamin Gelhay 

Trainer: Noel George & Amanda Zetterholm | Odds: 100/1

How do I place a bet on the King George VI Chase?

Follow our complete guide on how best to bet to find out more.

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Kim Bailey shares ideas for a King George shake-up – to boost entries and crowd figures

Jump racing is in full swing and every weekend there is another big race to enjoy on our TV screens. Two weeks ago, at Haydock, we watched the Venetia Williams-trained Royale Pagaille win the Betfair Chase at Haydock. His owner Rich Ricci celebrated his 100th Grade One winner – that’s some feat.

On the same card our Trelawne won the Graduation Chase – a big relief to all of us at Thorndale considering he was last seen falling at the Cheltenham Festival in the Ultima, won by his stablemate Chianti Classico.

Last weekend Paul Nicholls landed another Coral Gold Cup with Kandoo Kid at Newbury – having not won this race since the mighty Denman in 2009.

Up at Newcastle Nicky Henderson added his ninth Fighting Fifth Hurdle – not with the expected Constitution Hill, but Sir Gino. Constitution Hill was due to run but following a disappointing workout with Sir Gino he was subsequently found to be lame.

This weekend we have the Becher Chase at Aintree over the Grand National fences (we hope to run Chianti Classico), the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown and so it goes on right through December.

Time for change?

Yes, it is a hugely busy time for jump racing in the run-up to and over Christmas, with the pinnacle being the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton. But is the great race losing some of its appeal?

The public numbers at last year’s big-race meeting were marginally up from the previous year. But look at the figures. A crowd of 29,204 was recorded for Desert Orchid’s final King George appearance in 1991, compared to 11,703 last year.

One does wonder about the calculators used by racecourses, but it is indisputably true that the post-Covid attendances for British racing’s top winter prize have been very low.

Last year ’s attendance was fractionally up on the 2021 and 2022 totals, but significantly down on the 19,645 five-year average from 2015 to 2019. Even allowing for changes in the way crowd figures are recorded, that represents a big drop.

Then look at this year’s field. It lacks that wow factor you’d expect for this great race. Ten days ago Willie Mullins scratched all his entries, so the field size is down to 16 and only half of those are probable runners. Why? The sad factor here is that of the top 30 three-mile chasers, nearly 25 are trained in Ireland. This is the nub of the problem.

The King George is one of racing’s biggest draws and it is imperative we stop this race sliding even further down the ratings of good races. Kempton is looking tired as a racecourse – not helped by rumours that parts of the land around were being sold for building.

Perhaps it is time for a change – especially if Kempton cannot fill the racecourse as of old.

Charlie Brooks has been championing in his Telegraph articles to move the race to Ascot. They already have a hugely successful Christmas meet the weekend before Christmas, but Ascot is the ideal track to stage this prestigious race. It has the capacity, and good transport routes to the racecourse.

Oh, for a magic wand and a chance to rewrite the programme book. Yes, Ascot over Christmas. A two-day meeting with huge prize money and graded races to challenge the Irish and fill races with runners that take each other on because of the financial incentive. It’s only a dream, but who knows!

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Irish racehorse trainer John “Shark” Hanlon is riding the crest of a mighty wave with £800 purchase Hewick. The diminutive gelding has won more than £600,000 in prize money, including winning the American Grand National and most recently triumphing in the Grade One King George VI Chase at Kempton Park.

Next on the agenda is a crack at racing’s Blue Riband event, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, before all roads lead to Aintree for the Randox Grand National.

“You could travel the world to get a horse like him and the lad came from only five minutes down the road,” says Shark, who says Hewick’s small stature may have put off potential purchasers at his local Goresbridge sales. But after Shark’s intended purchase was a no-show, something about Hewick caught his eye, knowing nothing about him or his pedigree. “You never know where your next bargain is going to show up – and I like bargains!

“Every day you buy a horse you’re hoping that he’s the one, that he’s better than what’s on the card or you can improve his farm. But it’s getting harder.”

Hewick – “The biggest legend of all time and our pet”

The now nine-year-old gelding was bought for the knock-down price for owner TJ McDonald and Shark’s 16-year-old son Paddy now looks after the stable superstar.

“He was a bit wilder when he was younger so I took over when he was a five-year-old,” Paddy tells H&H. “As a four-year-old he wasn’t going that great – he had no luck point-to-pointing [his form figures read UR, F, F] or even when he went over hurdles. But it all just clicked one day and he’s been on an upper ever since. When he won Sedgefield over 3m5f in 2021, we realised we had something special – we had a Grand National horse on our hands.

“He’s the biggest legend of all time. He’s our lad and our pet.”

Hewick stays all day and is one of the “most chilled” horses on the yard, standing happily with his stable door wide open to greet his visitors on the day we visit, later enjoying a good roll in the mud with his field companion.

“A few horses would knock you down if you left his door open, he’s just one of those horses you can do what you like with him, go where you like with him – he has a great temperament and travelling doesn’t bother him so we probably won’t go to Cheltenham until Wednesday,” reveals County Carlow-based Shark.

Hewick’s target is Friday’s Gold Cup and the team are hoping their “tough as nails” yard hero fares better than his fall two fences from home in last year’s race when he looked in with a chance of victory under jockey Jordan Gainford.

“After Cheltenham, there is the English Grand National, then it will be back to America,” says the trainer. “There was also a race in Australia I was considering, but there are no flights which fit in with the two weeks’ quarantine, so he won’t be able to go this year. But the big plan remains to go to Australia with him.

“Having a horse like him gives us such a buzz,” says the trainer. “Hewick is such a talking horse, he’s everyone’s horse and everyone loves him, no matter where you go, everyone knows and wants to talk about Hewick. There’s a buzz everywhere – I was in the local town yesterday and they were all wishing us well for Cheltenham. But had he been at Willie Mullins, he wouldn’t have been seen because he’d be only one of a big number. Willie has a lot better horses than Hewick, but there’s not nearly so much buzz about them.”

Hewick “hits a flat spot then always comes back on the bridle”

“But the buzz of winning in America was unreal. The race after ours was delayed by about 25 minutes because of all the celebrations. Then it was absolutely brilliant to win the King George. I knew before we left that there was going to be some serious pace in the race because it had six runners, five of whom were front runners, and in races like that they often end up cutting each other’s throats. I said to jockey Gavin Sheehan that going down the back you might feel like he’s beaten, but don’t stop riding him, your last two furlongs are going to be your best two furlongs and that’s exactly what happened. Similarly, when Rachael Blackmore won on him at Sandown, she said, ‘You were right Shark – I thought he was well beat’, but he just comes back on the bridle.

“The one thing about our lad is you can make the running, you can sit in second or you can sit in last, it doesn’t matter,” says Shark, revealing that the son of Virtual is “in really good form” in the run-up to the Cheltenham Festival next month (12-15 March).

“He had a small cut on his leg before he came back in this season and we only had seven weeks before Kempton so I was afraid he wasn’t going to be fit enough,” explains Shark. “But he is not a huge horse who needs a lot of galloping – a couple of gallops puts our lad right and he is easy enough to keep sound.

“The ground is most important for him – he doesn’t want soft ground. Galopin Des Champs is obviously a very good horse but I’d love to meet him on proper good ground. Maybe if he’s as good as he is, he’ll win, but maybe he’s not as good on heavy ground. But every horse in the race is there to be looked at – it is always going to be a good race.”

“He’s small but he’s mighty – hopefully I’ll get a spin on him one day”

Paddy describes the feeling of his “powerful stride” when you’re riding Hewick.

“He’s small but he’s mighty, he’s come back stronger than ever and he’s fresh and happy in himself,”says the teenager, who has to wait for his 17th birthday in May before he can ride over jumps in Ireland, but has already ridden a winner for his father in England.

“Hopefully I can get a spin on Hewick one day. I learn from Dad every day – I’m tall so I’m not going to be a jumps jockey forever, so eventually I’d love to be a trainer. Hewick turned him from rags to riches and I hope he gets more horses. Four-year-old Silver Pageant is one we think very highly of – she’s doing everything right at home anyway, so hopefully she’ll be good for us when she races.”

Shark never ducks away from a challenge, travelling all over the world with his stable celebrity, but facing the might of the likes of Willie Mullins often feels like a David versus Goliath situation.

“It’s a tough game for smaller trainers and I think HRI [Horse Racing Ireland] need to open their eyes,” he says. “There should be more races for smaller trainers – maybe races for trainers who haven’t trained more than 10 winners, or 20 winners, or 30 winners and so on.

“I speak to my owners every day and some of them don’t even want a runner on a Sunday because they’ll come up against Willie winning all the races, so they’d rather have one in Thurles or Clonmel where they’d have more chance.

“At the Dublin Racing Festival there was more excitement in the two big handicaps than there were in all the Grade Ones. The Grade Ones and Grade Twos are lovely but they’re all about three or four people. HRI need to look beyond that to work out how they’re going to get people back to racing. That’s nothing against Willie or Gordon Elliott or anyone. But the smaller people have to be looked after, because without them you’re going to have races every weekend with five runners and people will quickly get bored.

“If it wasn’t for the cost of getting the horses from Ireland to England, I’d be racing in England every week – you can say I’m running away from Willie, I don’t care! But you have a better chance because you have a bigger area, more suitable races and lower grade races.”

Hewick will carry top weight for the Randox Grand National

Hewick has been allocated top weight of 11st 12lb for this year’s Randox Grand National on 13 April, where he bids to become the first horse since Golden Miller in 1934 to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same season, which, with a cyclical four-week gap rather than three between the two races this year, makes for a prime opportunity.

“He probably deserves top weight,” says Shark. “I think the trip will suit him. He’s going for the Gold Cup first and please God he comes out of the Gold Cup safe and if he does he’ll definitely head to Aintree.

“He won the Galway Plate off nearly top weight, he won the bet365 Oaksey Chase at Sandown Park off a big weight. It’s not that he’s not used to carrying top weight and he carries it very well.

“It’s a mighty day. It’s one of those days you look forward to all year. The National, the Gold Cup and the King George at Kempton – they’re the three big days in England aren’t they, so it’s great to have a runner there.”

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There was shock and triumph in the Ladbrokes King George VI results at Kempton today (26 December) with relative outsider Hewick taking the spoils.

Trained by Irishman John Joseph “Shark” Hanlon and ridden by the in-form Gavin Sheehan, Hewick, who went off at 12/1, secured victory despite looking beaten in the earlier stages of the race and hitting an in-running high of 550/1.

“If it wasn’t the King George, I probably would have pulled him up,” Gavin told ITV Racing. “I knew he stays and stays and I wasn’t able to get going. There’s only a certain amount of questions you can ask and if they aren’t answering, you can’t ask.

“Shark said before he’s probably the smallest horse here but he’s got the biggest heart. I was absolutely delighted when I was told that Shark was getting me on Hewick. It was a no-brainer.

“To come here and do it like that was just amazing. I’m gobsmacked – that’s a King George and it’s not a race easy to win.”

Hewick’s victory for owner T J McDonald has added to his impressive CV, which includes wins in the Durham National, bet365 Gold Cup, Galway Plate, Grand National Hurdle at Far Hills and Oaksey Chase. It is a remarkable roll of honour for a horse who cost just €850.

“I told Gavin that Hewick would stay all day,” said Shark. “They went very hard at the front and he struggled to lay up with them, but he stays all day. Gavin and the horse were amazing. We’ll go straight to the Cheltenham Gold Cup with him now.”

Last year’s winner, Bravemansgame, finished second under Harry Cobden for trainer Paul Nicholls and owner Bryan Drew, one-and-a-half lengths adrift of Hewick.

“He ran a lovely race,” said a visibly disappointed Harry afterwards.

Paul Nicholls said of Bravemansgame: “Harry (Cobden) said he was getting a bit of toe from the other horse (Shishkin) for as long as he could then the other horse had an unfortunate incident, and that interfered with him and that stopped him dead and cost him any chance then.

“He has run a good solid race. It is a case of ifs and buts. He was staying on strongly again and picked up the crumbs. I’ve never doubted that he stays. He is better on better ground. We will get him fresh and well now and go to Cheltenham.

“I don’t think he needs to go to Newbury as he has had three hard races. Unfortunately, he got stopped dead in his tracks today, but you can’t make excuses as incidents happen and he wasn’t good enough on the day.”

13/8 favourite Allaho finished a head behind Bravemansgame in third for trainer Willie Mullins, jockey Paul Townend and owner Cheveley Park Stud.

There was total disbelief when the well-fancied Shishkin, who is trained by Nicky Henderson, stumbled and unseated Nico De Boinville just after the second last. The multiple Grade One winner started the race without mishap having refused to race last time out, and looked well in contention to take the win until the incident.

A very dejected Nico said after the race: “I’m very proud of the horse and these things happen.”

Nicky Henderson says he still plans to send Shishkin to the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March. Speaking of the unseat of Nico, Nicky said: “I think they say, ‘that’s racing!’

“I was delighted with him until then. To be fair Nico and I had discussed the start [of the race] at length but we hadn’t really discussed the rest of the race. But he was having a good time, he was jumping great.

The Real Whacker was fourth under Sam Twiston-Davies, while fan favourite Frodon gave Bryony Frost a great round of jumping, but ultimately finished a distant fifth.

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National Hunt racing legend Kicking King has died at the age of 25.

The gelding, who was trained by Tom Taaffe for owner Conor Clarkson, won 12 of his 28 starts, and was placed on another 11 occasions.

His greatest victories came in the 2005 Cheltenham Gold Cup and the King George VI Chase in both 2004 and 2005, all under Barry Geraghty. He won over £800,000 during his six and a half-year career.

Kicking King was retired from racing in 2008 and he took up residence among his fellow Living Legends at the Irish National Stud, alongside the likes of Hurricane Fly, Beef Or Salmon, Hardy Eustace and, in more recent years, Faugheen.

Kicking King’s death was announced by the Irish National Stud today (21 March).

“The Irish National Stud are deeply saddened to announce that the great Kicking King has passed away,” the statement read. “A legend in every sense of the word, Kicking King was second in a Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, second in an Arkle and the winner of six Grade One races in an exceptional racing career. Back-to-back wins in the King George VI Chase sandwiched his greatest day in landing the blue riband of National Hunt racing, the Cheltenham Gold Cup.”

His former trainer Tom Taaffe also paid tribute to the horse saying: “Kicking King was a natural, athletic horse with balance. A great horse for Conor Clarkson, Barry Geraghty and all our staff. He was an ambassador for racing and [had] a second life in the exceptional care of the Irish National Stud.”

Barry Geraghty echoed Tom’s thoughts saying of Kicking King: “He was a real star, a big powerful horse who loved his racing. He provided me, Conor Clarkson and Tom Taaffe with some special days. He put in brilliant performances winning the Gold Cup and two King Georges and gave us many more great days to remember. As a family we enjoyed visiting him in the National Stud where he had a lovely retirement and was so well cared for by everyone, especially Leona Harmon.”

The Living Legends area of the Irish National Stud is home to some of racing’s true greats, and provides these horses with a wonderful retirement home, where members of the public can visit them.

Irish National Stud CEO Cathal Beale said: “Kicking King was a gentle giant. He loved his legion of fans coming to visit him. He lived out his days receiving the greatest of care from all the team here. I would like to thank his connections for entrusting him to us and pay special tribute to Leona Harmon who has been at his side throughout and has cared for him with great affection. He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the good fortune to be in his presence.”

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The incredibly exciting prospect Bravemansgame came out on top in the Ladbrokes King George VI results at Kempton today (26 December 2022).

Bravemansgame, ridden by Harry Cobden and trained by Paul Nicholls, went off at a price of 11/4 as second favourite to L’Homme Presse, to win comfortably by 14 lengths.

“This horse has now got a way of going where I can get into the race with him behind the bridle – he used to be too keen,” explained 23-year-old Harry, for whom this was a second King George VI victory, when speaking to ITV Racing. “I’ve worked out how to ride him, Paul has got spot him on. He’s a very good horse and every bit as much of a stayer as I thought he was going to be. This is a great day.

“It means a lot. The last one I won was in 2018 [on Clan Des Obeaux] and I definitely didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have done. It sounds a bit silly but now I’m 23, I appreciate these big days as they don’t come around that often.”

Harry expanded on the plans for Bravemansgame, a seven-year-old, who is owned by John Dance and Bryan Drew.

“We have learnt that he doesn’t take lots of racing very well – he puts a lot into it and then goes quite light so he doesn’t want many more runs than four each year,” said Harry. “If he was mine, I would now be taking him straight to the Gold Cup [without a run in-between].”

Paul Nicholls, who has now trained a record 13 King George VI winners, confirmed this would be the plan for Bravemansgame, who now has three Grade One victories to his name.

“It was a hell of a race. They went a good gallop and old Frodon gave them a good lead. Bravemansgame stayed on strong and showed his strengths. He is just a maturing horse and we have trained him for today. He’s not been the easiest to train, but we know him now and he will go straight to the Cheltenham Gold Cup [in March]”.

The favourite, L’Homme Presse, trained by Venetia Williams and ridden by Charlie Deutsch, jumped to his left throughout the right-handed race, impeding Bravemansgame at times, particularly in the initial stages of the race. L’Homme Presse ultimately unseated Charlie at the last, but neither horse nor jockey were the worse for wear.

 “L’Homme Presse jumped out left across Bravemansgame a fair bit, but as a jockey, you don’t want to take a pull and put your horse in behind in that kind of race,” explained Paul. “So Harry ended up just going a bit wider so that L’Homme Presse didn’t impede him so much.”

Frodon, who is also trained by Paul Nicholls, finished third under Bryony Frost, going off at a price of 18/1.

“I’m very proud of Frodon as he’s 10 years old, going on 11,” said Paul. “I love this sport and you always have to look forward and look back. 

“It’s fantastic and I like being at the top of my game. I have to give special mentions to Clifford Baker, who has been my head lad for years, Scott Marshall, who rides Bravemansgame every day and Harry, who is an ever-improving young jockey – it’s amazing.”

Venetia Williams’ other runner in this race, bar L’Homme Presse, was Royale Pagaille, who finished second under Tom Scudamore – they went off at a price of 12/1.

Eldorado Allen was fourth under Brendan Powell for trainer Joe Tizzard, while Ahoy Senor, who has had some issues jumping in the past, looked to jump around nicely enough to finish fifth for Scottish trainer Lucinda Russell under Derek Fox.

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A rank outsider came out on top in the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton today (26 December). Here is the full King George VI result from the 2021 renewal of the race.

Tornado Flyer, who was ridden by Danny Mullins and trained by Danny’s uncle, Willie, went off at a price of 28/1 to win comfortably by nine lengths (pictured).

“I didn’t think he was totally out of this,” explained Danny to ITV Racing of the eight-year-old, owned by the TFP Partnership. “This was as competitive a race that has been run all year in England and this lad has always had the promise to deliver something like this, so I knew we had a squeak. Going away from the stands for the second time, I was starting to come alive and halfway down the back, I was able to just keep taking him back and filling him up.”

Tornado Flyer, who is by Flemensfirth, last won a race in December 2019, but before today had clocked over £182,000 in prize money.

“When you’re riding for Willie, you’ve always got a chance, no matter what price they go off at,” said Danny. “2021 has been a fantastic year for me with loads of winners at the big festivals – it’s great and the King George is one of the big ones of the season.”

Irishman Danny, who before today hadn’t ridden a winner at Kempton, scooped a double when another outsider, Jacamar, won a handicap chase earlier on in the card.

Asterion Forlonge, another runner trained by Willie Mullins, was handily placed in second coming to the last fence, but fell when landing too steeply. Both he and his jockey Bryan Cooper walked away from the fall.

Clan Des Obeaux, who won this race in 2018 and 2019, ultimately finished second for trainer Paul Nicholls and jockey Harry Cobden. Paul Nicholls also trained Saint Calvados, who finished third.

2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Minella Indo, who went off favourite under Rachael Blackmore for trainer Henry De Bromhead was pulled up, and the 2020 winner of this race, Frodon, who was once again ridden by Bryony Frost, finished fourth. Both of these runners went very quickly in the early stages of the race, and former jockey Ruby Walsh analysed the race by saying “they went far too hard early on and you only get paid at the winning post”.

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Find out everything you need to know about National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls.

1. Paul Nicholls, born on 17 April 1972, is a British National Hunt trainer based at Manor Farm, Ditcheat in Somerset.

2. Nicholls left school at the age of 16 to work at a local point-to-point yard and in 1982 he became a conditional jockey under trainer Josh Gifford.

3. In 1984 he joined David Barons as stable jockey and enjoyed some notable successes, including back-to-back wins in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury with Broadheath in 1986 and Playschool the following year.

4. However, due to injury, he retired as a jockey in 1989 having ridden 133 winners over a seven-year career.

5. He then served a two-year apprenticeship as assistant trainer to Barons before taking out his own trainer’s licence in 1991.

6. Paul Nicholls began renting Manor Farm, Ditcheat from a local dairy farmer, Paul Barber, and had just eight horses in training to begin with.

7. His first winner, Olveston, was owned by Nicholls’ father and named after the South Gloucestershire village where he grew up.

8. His career developed steadily but the 1999 Cheltenham Festival, however, was to mark the start of Nicholls’ real success when he won the Queen Mother Champion Chase with Call Equiname, the Arkle Chase with Flagship Uberalles and the Cheltenham Gold Cup with See More Business.

9. At the end of the 2005-2006 season Nicholls was crowned champion National Hunt trainer for the first time. He has now been crowned champion National Hunt trainer 11 times.

10. Paul Nicholls trained his 50th Grade One winner in December 2008 when Master Minded — ridden by AP McCoy — won the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown.

11. Irish jockey Ruby Walsh played a central role in Nicholls’ success, including winning the 2007 and 2009 Cheltenham Gold Cups for him aboard Kauto Star. Sam Thomas won the same race aboard Denman in 2008. After the 2020 Cheltenham Festival, he had racked up 45 Festival winners.

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12. Kauto Star and Walsh won the King George VI Chase at Kempton a record five times (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011). Nicholls has more recently won this race with Silviniaco Conti (2013, 2014), Clan Des Obeaux (2018, 2019) and Frodon (2020).

13. Nicholls won the Grand National in 2012 with veteran chaser Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacob.

14. Paul is married to Georgie Brown and he has three daughters. His eldest daughter, Megan, from his second marriage is a professional Flat jockey.

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After what has been a very unusual festive period for most due to coronavirus restrictions, the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase today (26 December) delivered something of a Christmas fairytale result, with Frodon providing a somewhat surprising win under Bryony Frost (pictured).

Jumping off handily and dominating from start to finish, the pair defied their 20/1 starting price to land the Grade One at Kempton Park racecourse by 2¼ lengths.

“We’ve just won the King George!” Bryony exclaimed afterwards. “I’ve had the absolute best time going round on Frodon — he’s just smashed everyone’s expectations. What a Christmas present he has given his owners, Mr and Mrs Vogt.

“He’s what you dream of as a little girl — he was absolutely epic and I’m so grateful to Paul [Nicholls] for letting me ride Frodon.

“Paul’s travelling head girl said to me that he was in great form and I could not believe it coming to the line — I had to double check we weren’t meant to be going round again.”

This win meant that Bryony also surpassed the current record of the number of National Hunt winners ridden by a female jockey, and becomes the all-time leading female jump jockey.

“I talked to my brother, who is currently in the US last night and he said ‘how cool would it be if you broke the record on Frodon in the King George’,” Bryony explained.

This win also marked a 12th for trainer Paul Nicholls in this race, and he continues to be the winning-most trainer of the race.

“That was amazing and I wasn’t expecting it,” Paul admitted, with his more favoured runners, Clan Des Obeaux and Cyrname finishing sixth and pulled up respectively.

“Frodon loves it around here and my instructions to Bryony were to just go as quickly as she could and to keep jumping. I’ve done serious work with him over the past three weeks after he didn’t run particularly well in the Many Clouds Chase at Aintree [5 December] and he’s thrived off it. What a remarkable horse he is.”

Owners Mr and Mrs Vogt were understandably delighted with the result.

“It’s amazing and we can’t believe it. He was up for it and he was never headed. What a surprise it was,” Mr Vogt explained.

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Waiting Patiently ran gallantly finishing second under champion jockey Brian Hughes for trainer Ruth Jefferson and owner Richard Collins. The result was a great training performance given that the nine-year-old was last seen on the track on 7 December 2019.

“Waiting Patiently’s owner has been amazing as he has had time off, but he’s just run his heart out. He ran absolute blinder of a race and has done nothing wrong,” said Ruth.

The 2018 and 2019 winner of this race, Clan Des Obeaux, who went off 85/40 favourite, finished third after he made a few mistakes. The disappointments of the race were Cyrname and Lostintranslation, who were both pulled up, while Santini finished a below-par fifth.

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The Paul Nicholls-trained Clan Des Obeaux claimed back-to-back victories in the Grade One Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton Park today, 26 December.

The seven-year-old son of Kapgarde jumped and travelled well throughout the race, and was stablemate Cyrname’s main challenger turning in for home.

The 11/2 chance pulled 21 lengths clear of his rivals, under Sam Twiston-Davies, after the penultimate fence to win the Boxing Day feature.

It was a record 11^th victory in the King George for the winning trainer, who also trained the race favourite and eventual runner-up, Cyrname.

The Willie Mullins-trained runner, Footpad, finished five lenths behind Cyrname in third, while the Betfair Chase victor, Lostintranslation, who is trained by Colin Tizzard, pulled up before the third-last.

The Venetia Williams-trained 28/1 shot, Aso, led the field during the early stages before dropping out of contention to finish fourth, under Charlie Deutsch.

“Cyrname just didn’t seem to have his normal zest, he just ran a bit flat and I was never really happy after he’d jumped a couple and Harry [Cobden] said the same,” said Paul.

“Clan Des Obeaux has had a great preparation for this race, and I’ve always said he’s a better horse this year — he’s a year older and he’s stronger. If he keeps going forward, we could put him in the Gold Cup picture. The key to him is to keep him fresh, so we could go straight to Cheltenham with him.”

The winning jockey was teaming up with the Ditcheat trainer having left the yard’s number one job in 2018.

He added: “I just sat and steered, although the race didn’t go as I imagined it would, but at the same time to come home in front — well it’s beautiful.”

Don’t miss our full report from the Boxing Day racing action at Kempton Park in the 2 January issue of Horse & Hound.

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Opinion

Kempton Park’s two-day meeting produced the best racing over the festive period. More than one million people tuned into ITV Racing to watch the King George VI Chase this year, and they would not have been disappointed by what they saw on their screens.

It was a race full of drama, with Bristol De Mai falling and bringing down the fancied runner Waiting Patiently.

It was a great win by the Paul Nicholls-trained Clan Des Obeaux and an impressive 10th winner for Paul in the historic race, which, frankly, speaks volumes about what Paul has achieved — not only as a trainer but as an ambassador for the National Hunt game.

The winning horse was ridden by the “new kid on the block” Harry Cobden, 20. He has been thrown into the deep end this season, after Paul made him the number one jockey at Ditcheat over the summer. Harry has rewarded the former champion trainer many times already with some well-judged rides and big wins for the yard.

‘Feet like a boxer’

Altior has won 16 races on the trot now and his win in the Grade Two Unibet Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton was one of his easiest so far. I am stunned by this horse — he is so laid back and has feet like a boxer. He is the best horse around and just a joy to watch.

Chepstow was heaving for Welsh National day, won by the Colin Tizzard-trained Elegant Escape. It is their biggest race meeting and, as usual, it didn’t disappoint.

The Welsh National is a true test of a horse’s courage and stamina. It is a race run at a strong, sound gallop from start to finish and on soft ground. The race has a history of producing Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning horses.

The racing over Christmas produced some wonderful moments of celebrating; Warren Greatrex was seen on Twitter dancing and partying the night away after his Grade One victory with La Bague Au Roi. She is a fabulous horse for Warren and owners Julien Turner and Andrew Merriam.

Other horses for the notebook include Aramon, who won a Grade One at Leopardstown, Ask For Glory, who won the bumper at Chepstow and our own Vinndication, who won at Ascot — making it six-from-six when winning the Grade Two Noel Novices’ Chase.

I think we can reflect on a great Christmas period for racing, with excellent coverage by the ITV Racing team — jump racing needs as much good PR as possible at the moment, and the light shone bright for the sport during this year’s festivities.

Ref Horse & Hound; 3 January 2019

Former champion trainer Paul Nicholls won his tenth 32Red King George VI Chase courtesy of Clan Des Obeaux following a dramatic renewal of the Grade One feature race at Kempton Park on Boxing Day (26 December).

Under young jockey Harry Cobden, enjoying his first win in the big race, the six-year-old son of Kapgarde battled it out with the Colin Tizzard-trained Thistlecrack, the 2016 victor, up the home run.

The pair drew clear of the 2018 Gold Cup winner Native River, who finished third, and 12/1 shot Clan Des Obeaux held on to win by 1½ lengths.

Paul, who won the race five times with Kauto Star and twice apiece with See More Business and Silviniaco Conti, said: “After Haydock [in the Betfair Chase where Clan Des Obeaux finished fourth], I said to Harry ‘What are you going to ride in the King George? You’ve got a headache now’ and he said ‘there is only one horse I am going to ride and that is Clan Des Obeaux, he is on top-class form and he’ll come on’ and Harry was right. You have to have a real stayer to win this race — you look at the horse he’s beaten there [Thistlecrack], that is a serious horse. Haydock did Clan Des Obeaux a lot of good and made a man of him, and Harry gave him a peach of a ride.”

Harry, who is Paul’s number one stable jockey, added: “I’ve grown up watching the King George, and I never thought I would be in the position to ride a winner in it — I’m speechless. I was flat out the whole way; I knew Thistlecrack would tow us down to the last fence. Clan Des Obeaux never does anything in front, so it was a bold decision to hold onto him for as long as possible. When I did say ‘go’ he pricked his ears — it was fantastic.”

Clan Des Obeaux’s stablemate, Politologue, finished eventual fourth in the incident-filled three-mile contest, which saw the Betfair Chase winner Bristol De Mai and Waiting Patiently crash out just before heading onto the second circuit.

Coneygree set the pace from the outset but blundered and unseated his jockey Sean Bowen two out, while the favourite Might Bite ran disappointingly, weakening three out to finish eventual seventh. His trainer, Nicky Henderson, revealed afterwards that the 2017 winner had indeed bled and was being treated by the vets.

There was upset in the Grade One Unibet Christmas Hurdle, when the Nicky Henderson-trained Verdana Blue beat her stablemate, the dual champion hurdler Buveur D’Air.

The short-priced favourite, who runs in the famous green and gold silks of JP McManus, was shaken up before the last by Barry Geraghty, before being caught on the line by Verdana Blue, under Nico de Boinville, in a photo finish.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine — out every Thursday.

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The hard work and dedication of racing staff on Christmas Day — as well as the rest of the year — has been acknowledged in a special video.

Some 6,500 stable staff will work over Christmas to ensure that 14,000 racehorses are exercised, fed and cared for ahead of Boxing Day, one of the biggest and busiest days in the racing calendar.

NB: Please wait while the video loads below… if the video does not appear, click here to watch.

Great British Racing created the video to thank racing staff for their efforts over Christmas and to highlight the hard work that goes in to Christmas Day.

2015 Grand National-winning trainer Oliver Sherwood, who appears in the video, said it comes down to the dedication of his staff.

“It’s dedication – end of story. They’ve got to be dedicated to work with horses all year round,” he said.

“Everybody comes in on Christmas Day and they know exactly where they stand, we get the whole lot out very quickly.

“There’s plenty of jokes, it’s just a question of light-heartedness and being professional at the same time.”

Racehorses ‘didn’t bat an eyelid’ over wrapped Christmas chase fence

Racehorses Native Robin and Garrane “flew over” the fences in preparation for their festive engagements

‘To me, you are perfect’: Teddy The Shetland melts hearts in festive film special

The much-loved Shetland spreads Christmas cheer by reenacting scenes from festive films

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There will be more than 350 horses racing on Boxing Day with over 100 jockeys in action. Fixtures include Fontwell Park, Huntingdon, Kempton Park, Market Rasen, Sedgefield, Wetherby, Wincanton and Wolverhampton.

“This makes it one of the busiest and most exciting days in the racing calendar with eight fixtures taking place all over the country. However, even those which are not racing will be receiving expert care over the Christmas period, just as they do throughout the year,” said a spokesman for Great British Racing.

“If you are keen to get out of the house after being cooped up with the family on Christmas Day then there is no better Boxing Day activity than going to see some top-class racing at one of the eight horse racing fixtures around the country.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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Might Bite, Nicky Henderson’s quirky but ultra talented star, dominated his rivals in the 32Red King George VI Chase at Kempton Park today (26 December).

Twelve months ago, the eight-year-old dramatically crashed out at the last fence in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase with victory in his sights.

Today, under Nico de Boinville, the RSA Chase victor — who went off the 6-4 favourite — put in an assured round of jumping over the three-mile trip and the pair ran four lengths clear before the third-last fence. The eventual runner-up, 50-1 shot Double Shuffle, put in a gallant challenge and closed the gap on the winner to finish a length behind.

The Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained Bristol De Mai was vying to claim the second leg of the £1million Chase Triple Crown bonus, after winning the Betfair Chase at Haydock by a huge margin. Under Daryl Jacob, he made most the running in today’s feature race, however had weakened by three out when blundering to finish eventual sixth.

Last year’s King George winner, Thistlecrack, held on to finish fourth, while Tea For Two took eventual third under Lizzie Kelly.

“He was jumping me into the lead, so instead of taking a pull I thought I’d let him go and enjoy it,” said the winning jockey. “He’s given me a terrific spin and I’m delighted.”

Nicky Henderson compared the good-looking son of Scorpion’s presence to that of Sprinter Sacre.

“He has a lot of charisma — you can’t help but love him. He’s so gorgeous and he likes to show off.

“He jumped beautifully all the way and he enjoys doing that — he’s so exuberant.”

Breakthrough for Frost

Bryony Frost made her first ride in a Grade One a winning one when claiming the 32Red Kauto Star Novices’ Chase aboard Black Corton — a sixth triumph for the pair since July.

The 22-year-old conditional jockey, who is attached to the Paul Nicholls yard, became only the second female in Britain or Ireland to ride a Grade One winner over fences — Lizzie Kelly was the first to do so, in the same race two years

ago.

Don’t miss the full report from Kempton Park and Chepstow in the 4 January issue of Horse & Hound.

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Cue Card won the King George VI Chase at Kempton this afternoon (26 December) in a thrilling renewal of the race.

Colin Tizzard’s stable star battled it out to the line with Irish raider Vautour, culminating in a photo finish. But it was a home win, with Cue Card just taking the prize.

“It’s the best feeling in my whole career,” said rider Paddy Brennan. “I feel very proud today. I’d like to thank Cue Card and all the staff. He’s run a true race.”

The nine-year-old gelding has now won two out of three legs of the million pound bonus; the newly introduced triple crown of chasing set up by Jockey Club Racecourses. The first leg was the Betfair Chase at Haydock last month, with the final one the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March.

“It’s fantastic. He’s a brilliant horse,” said proud trainer Colin Tizzard.

“Going to last if he’d met it on good stride he would have won by length and a half,” he said.

“He looks like a Gold Cup horse now. He’s had a hard race today so I don’t know if he’ll run again before then. He was all out on the line, but it’s so lovely that he relaxes in a race. It’s absolutely brilliant.”

It was a first win in four attempts for the popular gelding, who has seemed to have a new lease of life this season. Colin’s horses have been moved to a new barn, which, as well as a wind operation, appears to have made a difference.

Two-time winner of the race Silviniaco Conti set off in front and shared leadership with Willie Mullins’ Vautour for much of the first circuit. He dropped back, leaving Vautour ahead and in a comfortable position coming for home. Favourite Don Cossack took a crashing fall at the second last leaving Cue Card and Vautour in battle over the last and to the winning post.

Earlier in the day Faugheen showed he was back in form with an impressive win the Grade One Christmas Hurdle. Ridden by Ruby Walsh and trained by Willie Mullins the 1-4 favourite beat The New One by seven lengths. He lost his unbeaten record in the Morgiana at Punchestown to stablemate Nichols Canyon on his season debut, but owner Rich Ricci revealed the gelding had lost 15kg since the run.

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For AP McCoy to pick up the BBC lifetime achievement award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards this weekend was great recognition for both him and the sport. It’s good for me too, as he can’t possibly return to riding now he’s received that!

It’s brilliant that AP’s years of work have been publicly recognised as an achievement by the sporting world globally. I can’t see that anyone could do any more — to be at the top of your sport for 20 years is incredible.

AP also came across very well in accepting the award and thanking the horses and the stable staff who ride them day in, day out. Without them we couldn’t do this job; horses are not something you can pick up and put down, so we’ll also be sparing a thought for all those working over Christmas looking after them.

I was pleased to see Andy Murray win the main BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. He might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it was deserved.

A dead heat

I’ve been fairly quiet but it was great to have a winner with Royal Regatta at Ascot, and it was so close but so far for Reve De Sivola in the Long Walk Hurdle. Reve De Sivola ran a really good race, but was beaten by a better horse in the Colin Tizzard-trained Thistlecrack. He looks like a real superstar and Colin’s horses are flying at the moment.

The day ended well too; I finished joint first in a dead heat in the last. This is very unusual, especially in a 21-runner handicap. It was a great result and meant two sets of happy connections.

At Cheltenham the week before it was worth skipping dinner to get down to 10st for Village Vic, who won the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup. Before the race I’d hoped he was still improving and in the run-in he was every jockey’s dream.

I don’t do that light a weight often and it’s quite tough. I spent some time in the sauna, which I don’t like, but it did the trick. All you can think about all week is eating, and then when you finally can you have about three mouthfuls and you’re full, so it’s not as pleasant as you’d expect.

I’m hoping I won’t have to do anything less than 10st 7lb on Boxing Day, so that I can enjoy Christmas dinner.

The highlight of Christmas for most in racing is the King George at Kempton and it looks a very exciting renewal this year. There is plenty of strength in depth in the race so I’m sure it will be a thriller. It’s a shame Coneygree has been ruled out through injury, but the Irish horses Vautour and Don Cossack have done nothing wrong. Hennessy winner Smad Place heads there, as does dual winner Silviniaco Conti.

As mentioned regarding Thistlecrack, Colin Tizzard’s horses are on fire at the moment, so Cue Card should run well. Colin’s horses have been moved to a new barn, and it seems to have made all the difference. When a yard is healthy, even the yard cat could win a race. If you’re out of form it’s as if nothing can go right.

A sad farewell

I was shocked to hear of the death of Alan Lee (news, p10) earlier this week. He was well respected by everyone in racing and cricket. Alan was a fantastic journalist; he had a way with words and was a genuinely nice person to be around. He was passionate about the sport and you could tell he loved it in his writing. I saw him at Ascot on Friday looking fit and healthy, so it was a massive shock to hear he had died the following day. He will be missed.

H&H 24 December 2015

“He’s left a large hole in the yard that will never be filled, there won’t be another one like him,” said Laura Collett as she paid tribute to Kauto Star after the legendary racehorse was put down yesterday (Monday 29 June).

“Kauto will be so missed, he was an absolute sweetheart,” she told H&H.

“He was easy to deal with day-in day-out and was a total pleasure and joy to do anything with.

“He was a huge character. Everyone knew he was king of the yard — he was always the centre of attention. Even if a visitor came to see another horse they’d stop by to see Kauto. He was amazing and he knew it, he’d light up when a camara was around.”

The record-breaking ex-racehorse sustained fractures to his neck and pelvis in the paddock on Wednesday (24 June) and after treatment at Valley Equine Hospital in Lambourn was put down.

Kauto Star, who won the Cheltenham Gold Cup twice (2007 and 2009) was trained in Somerset by Paul Nicholls during his racing career. Owned by Clive Smith, Kauto retired in October 2012 and moved to Laura’s yard in Lambourn where he was hacked and schooled frequently.

The 15-year-old gelding had been out in the paddock when the accident occurred. Connections are unsure exactly what happened — though they believe he might have tried to jump something.

Further complications — pneumonia and laminitis — developed and Kauto was put down.

“It’s tragic,” said Laura. “It was just a freak accident, no one could have prevented it.

“The vets did an amazing job, I couldn’t believe how much of a fighter he was. It’s like he wouldn’t admit anything was wrong — he was so strong. He was as perky at the end as he always had been.”

Kauto also won the King George VI Chase at Kempton a record five times.

“We wanted to keep his brain and body active in retirement. He was quite a character to ride though — sometimes he’d spook at things and the next day go past them fine, I think he did it to entertain himself,” added Laura.

“It was a huge honour to look after and ride him. He gave me some unbelievable experiences that I would never have had the opportunity to do otherwise — such as galloping up the straight at Kempton.

“One of my favourite memories was cantering behind Denman at Cheltenham, two Gold Cup legends. He was adored by the public.”

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National Hunt hero Kauto Star has been put down after a field accident.

The record-breaking ex-racehorse sustained fractures to his neck and pelvis in the paddock on Wednesday (24 June).

The 15-year-old gelding was taken to Valley Equine Hospital in Lambourn, but put down yesterday (Monday 29 June).

“It’s very, very sad indeed,” owner Clive Smith told H&H.

“I wanted to give him a nice time for the rest of his life. I have tremendous memories of him, he was a wonderful horse.”

Hattie Lawrence, the vet who treated Kauto Star at the Valley Equine Hospital, said the horse had been referred to the hospital on Saturday after the injuries were “failing to respond satisfactorily to treatment”.

“His injuries included a complex fracture to the pelvis and a fracture at the base of the neck, and these resulted in further complications,” she added.

“While the range of treatments administered at the hospital in the 48 hours following his admission ensured that Kauto Star was comfortable, sadly his condition deteriorated again during Monday and, in the horse’s best interests, a decision was taken together with Mr Smith to euthanase him on Monday afternoon.”

The dual Cheltenham Gold Cup winner was forging a second career in dressage under event rider Laura Collett.

Clive said: “He had been turned out in Laura’s paddock, as has been the case normally with him at this time for years, and he looks to have jumped something, and perhaps stumbled, we’re not really sure, but he injured himself — and it became obvious it was serious.

“The onset of secondary problems, pneumonia and laminitis, as a result of the horse being unable to put his head down and the increase of toxins in his body after standing stationary for so long, highlight the challenges faced when treating serious injuries in horses.

“Hattie and the vets at Valley Equine Hospital did all they could and more. Kauto was kept comfortable throughout and not in pain when the decision to put him down was taken.”

As well as winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup twice (2007 and 2009) Kauto Star won the King George at Kempton five times — in 2011 breaking the record set by legendary grey Desert Orchid.

Kauto Star was trained in Somerset by Paul Nicholls during his racing career. He retired in October 2012 and moved to Laura’s yard in Lambourn where he was hacked and schooled frequently.

A statue of Kauto was commissioned by Clive and was unveiled at Kempton racecourse on Boxing Day last year.

It was created by equestrian sculptor Charlie Langton and is positioned in the parade ring for all racegoers to see.

“I have a similar one in my garden, I can see and remember every day,” added Clive.

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Silviniaco Conti took the William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton for the second year running — securing a ninth win in the race for trainer Paul Nicholls.

The eight-year-old gelding travelled strongly throughout the race, jumping cleanly under a positive ride from Noel Fehily.

The pair led from the start, mostly tracked by Champagne Fever, who tired towards the end under Ruby Walsh, to finish fourth.

Silviniaco Conti won by 4 1/2 lengths from David Pipe’s Dynaste in second, ridden by Tom Scudamore. A further 5l back in third was another Nicholls horse, Al Ferof, who also finished third in the 2013 race.

“He’s a hell of a good horse,” said Fehily of Silviniaco Conti. “He proved today what a good horse he is whatever the ground, he’s gone a good gallop the whole way.”

Silviniaco Conti, who was sent off 15-8 favourite, jumped boldly and had a good rhythm for the whole three miles. He now heads to the Cheltenham Gold Cup, although Nicholls has not yet decided whether the gelding will have another run between now and March.

“He was really good today, he’s a much improved horse and we now look forward to Cheltenham.

““He gallops and stays and he’s very fit,” said Nicholls — who also won the King George five times with Kauto Star and twice with See More Business.

Dynaste put in a solid performance under Tom Scudamore. Tom had earlier in the day won at Wincanton on Batavir, and had arrived at Kempton in a helicopter in order to take part in the feature race.

Al Ferof ran on strongly for Sam Twiston-Davies for third, and the grey, who runs in the yellow, white and red silks of John Hales, owner of Nick Skelton’s showjumping star Arko, may now head to the Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

Cue Card came home fifth, Johns Spirit was sixth, Wonderful Charm was seventh.

Menorah made a bad error on the way home, finishing eighth, while Philip Hobbs’ other charge Wishfull Thinking pulled up.

Earlier in the day Coneygree, trained by Mark Bradstock, provided jockey Nico de Boinville with his first Grade One win in a drama-packed Kauto Star Novices’ Chase,

Favourite Saphir Du Rheu fell, as did Sausalito Sunrise, while Creepy pulled up and Carraig Mor unseated Noel Fehily.

Meanwhile, Faugheen put in an outstanding performance in the williamhill.com Christmas Hurdle winning by 8l to Purple Bay and confirming his position as favourite for March’s Champion Hurdle.

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A Boxing Day highlight for horse lovers and racing fans is of course the King George VI Chase at Kempton.

The first winner was Southern Hero in 1937 — who at 12 remains the oldest winner of the race. Since then there have been several multiple winners, many whom became popular stars of the festive season.

Ahead of this year’s race H&H looks back over a selection of King George heroes.

Kauto Star

One of the most popular chasers of recent times, Kauto Star made history in 2011 taking the King George for the fifth time, surpassing the record he held jointly with Desert Orchid.

Trained by Paul Nicholls he also won two Cheltenham Gold Cups before retiring in 2012. He is now being retrained by event rider Laura Collett.

The French-bred chaser, owned by Clive Smith, was a firm Boxing Day favourite and was a major draw to the race for several years. Every year he parades at the track, there is even a bar at the course named after him and filled with memorabilia honouring the King George hero.

This year a statue of the 14-year-old will be unveiled at the course, created by equestrian sculptor Charlie Langton.

“Owning Kauto Star has been the thrill of a lifetime and to be able to present a statue of him to Kempton Park, to celebrate his great wins is truly heart-warming for me,” said Clive.

“Being remembered in this way is nothing less than he deserves. My very talented, beautiful horse with a lovely quiet temperament and a tremendous will to win; the horse of a lifetime.”

Desert Orchid

A four-time winner of the King George VI Chase at Kempton, the gelding continued to parade there after his retirement on Boxing Day each year for the public.

After his death in 2006 his ashes were buried near his statue at the Middlesex track.

He won the race first in 1986 and followed it up with wins in 1988, 1989 and 1990.

A much-loved chasing campaigner he won 34 races, ran an estimated 180 miles and jumped more than 1,000 fences. “I’ve never known a horse so brave,” said rider Simon Sherwood.

However, his career was almost over before it started as in his first race in 1983 he took bad tumble. But he returned to the track and won many top class races, including the 1998 Tingle Creek and 1989 Cheltenham Gold Cup.

After a crashing fall during his sixth King George he was retired. He had an active retirement — making public appearances and parading.

He died peacefully in his stable in November 2006 aged 27.

One Man

One of the most popular greys in racing, One Man won the King George two years running — 1995 and 1996.

He was ridden by Richard Dunwoody and ran in the famous yellow, red and white silks of John Hales, owner of Nick Skelton’s showjumping star Arko.

The gelding, by Remainder Man, was foaled in 1988 and won 20 of 35 races — including the 1998 Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

He was trained by the late Gordon Richards, who nicknamed the horse his “bouncing rubber ball”.

He soared into the public eye thanks to his high speed and neat jumping style and followed in Desert Orchid’s footsteps as the people’s grey.

Long Run

Long Run won the 2010 renewal of the race — which was run in January 2011 due to bad weather — providing jockey Sam Waley-Cohen with his first King George title.

Trained by Nicky Henderson, the gelding finished ahead of stablemate Riverside Theatre in second and Kauto Star in third. The next season he finished second to Kauto Star, who won his fifth, final and record-breaking race. In 2012 Long Run won for a second time, beating Captain Chris in a thrilling race by a neck.

Teeton Mill

Another popular grey winner of the Boxing Day race, Teeton Mill won the King George in 1998.

Trained by Venetia Williams he also won the Hennessy Gold Cup the same year. Teeton Mill sadly died last month at the age of 25.

Wayward Lad

A three-time winner of the race, Wayward Lad took the King George in 1982, 1983 and 1984.

Kicking King

Trained in Ireland by Tom Taaffe, Kicking King won under top Irish jockey Barry Geraghty in 2004 and 2005 — the second of which was run at Sandown as track redevelopment was underway at Kempton.

By Old Vic, Kicking King also won the 2005 Gold Cup.

Silviniaco Conti

Paul Nicholls reclaimed his Kempton crown last year with his charge Silviniaco Conti.

The eight-year-old, ridden by Noel Fehily, now aims to become the 14th horse to win the race more than once, and give his trained a record ninth victory in the race.

At the time jockey Noel called the horse “tough as nails”. 

Silviniaco Conti goes into this year’s race as favourite, up against Champagne Fever, Al Ferof and Menorah. For full entries see below.

But who will win? Tune in to Channel 4 Racing or visit the course on 26 December to find out.

The William Hill King George VI Chase is run at 3.10pm.

2014 contenders:

• Silviniaco Conti
• Champagne Fever
• Al Ferof
• Cue Card
• Dynaste
• Menorah
• Johns Spirit
• Wishfull Thinking
• Double Ross
• Wonderful Charm

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An electrifying Longines King George V Gold Cup at the Royal International Horse Show had the Hickstead crowd on the edge of their seats, but despite their support they were denied a British win.

The magnificent trophy went to the Netherlands for the first time since the competition began in 1907. Despite his tender years, Hendrik-Jan Schuttert, 22, held onto his lead with Cerona HS despite German legend Ludger Beerbaum’s final challenge on Chiara.

“I only started jumping four and five star shows this year, this is a dream win,” said Hendrik, “With Ludger behind me, I thought I’d be second!”

Talking point of the class, however, was the performance of fourth-placed Louise Pavitt and Brendon Stud’s fast-rising star Don VHP Z.

“I knew the height wouldn’t be a problem, it would be the track technicalities,” said Louise. “He’s huge and I’m little, but he’s learned to contain his big stride and is so easy to ride.”

Joe Clayton posted the only British win when commanding the Royal International accumulator with Antello Z.

“He’s been touching for a win all week,” said Joe, who is based with Michael Whitaker and took over the ride four weeks ago.

The pair had taken a close second earlier in the week in the Bunn Leisure trophy to France’s Penelope Leprevost and Oscar Des Fontaines. And a speedy round but with a rail down in Saturday night’s Sky Sports speed classic dropped them from second to sixth.

“He’s quick and careful, what more could you ask for.”

Don’t miss H&H’s full report from the Royal International, on sale Thursday 26 July, alongside part two of our Olympic preview

Results

Longines King George V Gold Cup. 1, Cerona HS (H-J Schuttert), NED; 2, Chiara (L Beerbaum), GER; 3, Myself De Breve (M Hecart), FRA. accumulator. 1, Antello Z (J Clayton); 2, Sam (A Zoer), NED; 3, Caleta (M Armstrong), GBR.

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Kent Farrington, from the USA, wins the prestigious Longines King George V Gold Cup at the Royal International Horse Show with Uceko. Robert Smith is best of the Brits with Talan in the runner-up spot.

A dramatic 10-rider jump-off had the crowds cheering and groaning in equal measures as the final fence, the towering Hickstead planks, took its toll when approached at a flat-out gallop. But the US rider stole a 0.5sec margin for a superb victory on his first visit to the West Sussex venue.

“It feels pretty incredible,” said the 30-year-old from New York. “I’d been told what to expect and I have watched it on TV. I hope people at home will have seen it.”

Three-times winner Robert Smith filled second spot with the 11-year-old Concorde stallion Talan, for the second year running.

“It’s pretty frustrating, but I wouldn’t do anything differently,” said Robert. “He’s not always the quickest, but he’s learning – I would say he’s three or four seconds quicker than last year.”

The victor originally bought his handsome 10-year-old grey gelding from third-placed Leon Thijssen (on Tyson) of the Netherlands – a decision he may now slightly regret.

“I had to choose one to sell!” said the Dutchman.

Don’t miss the full report, analysis and pictures in next week’s Horse & Hound, out 4 August.

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The William Hill King George VI Chase has been re-scheduled for Saturday 15 January, after attempts to stage the race today (Monday 27 December) had to be abandoned due to a frozen track.

Kauto Star’s attempt to achieve a record-breaking fifth victory in the race will now take place at Kempton Park racecourse on William Hill Lanzarote Hurdle day instead.

Kempton Park’s managing director Amy Starkey said: “We are naturally bitterly disappointed to have lost the William Hill Winter Festival to the severe winter weather. Everyone at the racecourse did all that they could to get racing on, but the elements defeated us.

“Though it has not taken place at Christmas as we expected, the whole of racing can now start looking forward once again to Kauto Star’s bid to win a record-breaking fifth William Hill King George VI Chase at Kempton Park.”

Announcements about race times and admission prices are expected to be made this week. All advance bookings for the William Hill Winter Festival will be refunded.

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Britain’s greatest Olympian, Sir Steve Redgrave, is backing Kauto Star for a fifth win in the William Hill King George VI chase at Kempton Park on Monday.

The rower, who won five gold medals at five consecutive Olympics, is confident the Paul Nicholls-trained racing sensation will pull the same feat out of the bag.

“I know the effort required to win a sporting title five times in a row. It requires dedication, determination and a never-say-die spirit,” said Sir Steve.

“What Kauto Star has achieved so far at Kempton is fantastic.”

The £200,000 King George VI Chase has been postponed from Sunday 26 December due to a frozen track.

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Kauto Star made jump racing history at Kempton today when he won a record fourth consecutive William Hill King George VI Chase.

Desert Orchid won the race four times but in five years and now just about the only thing the late great grey still has over the Paul Nicholls-trained modern great is in a popularity contest.

It was, however, by far Kauto Star’s most impressive win of the four and he was probably facing his strongest opposition yet in the race — only Denman was missing. He relished the strong gallop and came home like a fresh horse a distance clear of Madison Du Berlais and Barbers Shop, with long-time leader Nacarat putting in a game effort in fourth. All of them were out on their feet in the scramble for the line, while Kauto Star was already jig-jogging half way back to the winner’s enclosure.

“He was brilliant,” said trainer Paul Nicholls, who was winning the race for a sixth time, also a record. “Since Haydock he’s been blooming. Everything at home suggested it. With targets like this and the Gold Cup you don’t have them at their best for their first run.

“He’s a real little professional now, he jumps, he’s relaxed, he’s grown up. He’ll be a hard horse to beat here next year and if he stays sound he’ll be hard to beat at Cheltenham — I don’t care what [horses] he’s up against. It was testing enough out there today and I don’t even think that [mud] will stop him at Cheltenham in this form.”

Ruby Walsh, in the saddle on all four occasions, never had a moment’s worry. “You think some of the hard races he’s had would be starting to catch up with him, but he just gets better,” he said.

Don’t miss H&H’s full report from Kempton, on sale Thursday 7 January, 2010

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Holger Wulschner continued Germany’s excellent run at Hickstead by claiming the richest ever running of the Longines King George V Gold Cup with Clausen.

Six got through to the jump-off and 44-year-old Wulschner, third to go, rode a deft and feisty round on the tail-swishing Holsteiner which no-one could touch.

Pieter Devos, 23, and Equipharma Tekila D were runners-up for Belgium, with Geoff Billington third for Britain on Rosinus, willed around the jump-off by a delirious home crowd. Ben Maher was fastest four-faulter, fourth on Robin Hood.

This is by far Clausen’s career best, though last month he signalled his major league potential by winning the Grand Prix at the three-star CSI in Norten-Hardenberg and then jumping a double clear in Aachen. After that, Clausen’s owner Siegfried Kludt was besieged with offers for the horse.

“So he decided to see them off by offering me half the horse for one Euro, and selling the other half to his two-year-old daughter for the same amount,” said Holger. “I gave him 10 Euros and told him to keep the change ‐ this is the bargain of my life.”

Hopes of a first-ever lady winner at this newly unisexed Royal International Horse Show staple were high, for Nicole Shahinian-Simpson on SRF Dragonfly (USA) and Helena Lundback on Bukowskis Conan (Sweden) jumped faultlessly as the 42-starter first round drew to a close. But in trying to close on Clausen, both flattened the gate early on in the jump-off course.

Notable casualties in the first round included 2006 winners, Roger-Yves Bost and Ideal de la Loge, among many to fall foul of the treble combination, and William Funnell on Cortaflex Mondriaan, who jumped clear but with one time-fault. It was a weekend of so near yet so far for Mondriaan, for in Saturday’s Longines Classic his rider lost his way in the two-horse jump-off, prompting elimination.

www.hickstead.co.uk

Don’t miss H&H’s full report on all the jumping action from the Royal International Horse Show, on sale Thursday 31 July, ’08

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Just when the opposition thought they might be getting closer to him Kauto Star and Ruby Walsh proved that to be a cruel illusion by winning a second consecutive Stan James King George VI Chase — in devastating style.

They came home 11 lengths clear of Our Vic with Exotic Dancer, last year’s runner-up back in third. Racing Demon, who appeared to fold going into the final bend, ran on again for fourth.

Kauto Star, now officially rated the joint highest rated chaser of the last 15 years — with Moscow Flyer — cruised to the front four out and jumped immaculately for Walsh. The last fence blunders of last season that characterised his winning now seem a thing of the past.

Trainer Paul Nicholls rated the victory more impressive than any of his previous wins. “It shows what a great horse he is,” he said. “You can tide him any way you like now. I said to Ruby don’t be afraid to be positive. If you want to take up the running go and make use of his jumping. I know he won the Tingle Creek last season but as far as I’m concerned he’s a stayer and if you’re in front turning for home they’ll struggle to pass you.”

It was Walsh’s first winner since he dislocated his shoulder at Cheltenham five and a half weeks ago.

The two big disappointments of the race were My Way De Solzen, last year’s Arkle winner, and Kauto Star’s stable-mate, Taranis. Both were pulled up before the race began in earnest. Taranis was lame with a tendon injury while there was no ready explanation for My Way De Solzen’s poor showing but he never travelled.

Nick Gifford’s Straw Bear is now back on course for the Champion Hurdle after beating Harchibald in a tight finish to the Christmas Hurdle.

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Top chasers Kicking King and Kingscliff will be entertaining the Boxing Day crowds with what promises to be a great King George VI Chase at Sandown.

Kicking King beat Kingscliff by two-and-a-half lengths in the race 12 months ago, before going to claim the Cheltenham Gold Cup. But Kingscliff turned the tables on his rival last month with a win in the Betfair Chase at Haydock, when Kicking King could only manage third.

Kicking King is currently favourite for the race, but there are many who feel that this could be Kingscliff’s year. Tony Dobbin will be replacing young Robert Walker on board Kingscliff, after Walker injured his collarbone while schooling a horse.

Impek represents the formidable combination of trainer Henrietta Knight and owner Jim Lewis. Knight’s latest stable star will be ridden by 10-times champion jockey AP McCoy.

Sandown is also expected to see Ruby Walsh’s return to the saddle after dislocating his shoulder in a fall at Navan at the end of last month.

New safety guidelines

Racecourses are to introduce stricter guidelines to improve safety in parade rings and winner’s enclosures in the New Year. The maximum numbers of individuals allowed in these areas are to be set by the racecourse following risk assessments to avoid the potential dangers of overcrowding. Assistant trainer Chris Kinane’s parade ring accident in April highlighted the need for improved safety in such enclosures.

St Leger goes to York

The Ladbrokes St Leger meeting will take place at York in 2006, while its traditional Doncaster home undergoes a £55m redevelopment. The four-day meeting will be condensed to just two days, with six Group Two races in addition to the final classic of the season.

Lesters nominations unveiled

AP McCoy heads the nominations for the Jump Jockey of the Year award at racing’s annual awards night, The Lesters. McCoy has won the jump jockey award for the past nine years. This year he is up against Timmy Murphy, Graham Lee and Tony Dobbin. A total of nine awards will be presented at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on 14 January.

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