The winter racing season is in full swing, and we have a thrilling lineup of equine talent ready to take center stage. Get ready for heart-stopping action as the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day promises to be a spectacle to remember.
Leading the charge as the ante-post favorite is the formidable Allaho, trained by the legendary Willie Mullins. With an impressive track record, including two emphatic victories in the Ryanair Chase and a stunning Punchestown Gold Cup win in 2022, Allaho is a force to be reckoned with. Having recently made a satisfactory return to the track after a lengthy absence, anticipation is rising for his performance in the Christmas highlight.
Immediately following that thrilling event, all eyes turn to Chepstow on Tuesday, December 27 for the Coral Welsh Grand National meeting. Last year's victor, Bravemansgame, returns with hopes of defending his title under the guidance of trainer Paul Nicholls. A challenging campaign this season, marked by odds-on defeats in both the Charlie Hall at Wetherby and the Betfair Chase at Haydock, means Bravemansgame has something to prove. However, the spirit of a true champion fuels his determination.
Adding another layer of excitement is Frodon, the winner of the 2020 race. This formidable duo gives trainer Paul Nicholls a second-string to his bow. The partnership between Frodon and jockey Bryony Frost is synonymous with brilliance, and they will surely be a dynamic force to reckon with.
Nicky Henderson-trained Shishkin is also seeking redemption as he makes his seasonal return. A minor hiccup in a refused start at Ascot and unfortunate weather conditions forcing a cancellation of a planned Fighting Fifth Hurdle prep at Sandown have left Shishkin hungry to prove himself on the track once more.
The star-studded lineup for the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle features the headline act, Constitution Hill. Trained by the esteemed Nicky Henderson, this two-mile champion is riding high on his unbeaten streak over hurdles. A long odds-on favorite, Constitution Hill aims to extend this incredible winning run, facing formidable competition from the Nicholls-trained Rubaud, who trails a substantial 26lb behind in the ratings. Henderson also brings stablemate First Street into the mix, while Kerry Lee potentially makes a powerful impact with Black Poppy and Nemean Lion. Alan King's Sceau Royal completes the talented field.
Meanwhile, in the Ladbrokes Kauto Star Novices' Chase, the French challenger Il Est Francais takes center stage. Trained by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, this dominant force from France is set to clash with five rivals at Kempton. The talented Hermes Allen, trained by Paul Nicholls, is expected to provide a stiff challenge.
Although the absence of Irish representation from Mullins and Gordon Elliott was a disappointment, the remaining contenders, Giovinco, Kilbeg King, Marble Sands, and Tightenourbelts, are sure to put up a fierce fight.
Exciting developments are also on the horizon for racing enthusiasts, as the Sky Sports Racing family expands. Starting from 2024, viewers can expect live coverage of thrilling races, including the Lockinge and the Coral Gold Cup from Newbury, all on the channel.
As we gear up for these exhilarating showcases of speed, strength, and sheer determination, let us be thankful for the horses and the talented individuals who make this sport so incredible. Get ready to witness history in the making as these exceptional athletes take their rightful place in the spotlight.
