ANTEPOST ANGLE - KING GEORGE VI CHASE

Boxing Day’s biggest race the King George VI Chase takes place at Kempton and John Arnold looks ahead to this prestigious contest in the latest instalment of the Antepost Angle.

History:

The King George VI Chase, inaugurated in 1937, is one of the most prestigious races in the National Hunt calendar, held annually at Kempton Park Racecourse on Boxing Day. Named in honour of King George VI, the race was initially established as a way to encourage public interest in jump racing during the festive season. Over the decades, it has grown in importance and reputation, becoming a highlight of the winter racing schedule and a key fixture for top-class steeplechasers. The race is traditionally contested over three miles and features a challenging course that tests the speed and endurance of the horses, attracting many of the sport's biggest names.

Since its inception, the King George VI Chase has seen numerous legendary horses etch their names in its storied history. Icons such as Arkle, Desert Orchid, and Kauto Star have made their mark, with Kauto Star famously winning the race five times between 2004 and 2011, a feat that solidified his status as one of the greatest steeplechasers of all time. The race often serves as a predictor for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, making it an essential stop for trainers looking to gauge their horses' capabilities against the best in the field.

 Trends:

Age- 11 of the last 12 winners were aged between 6 and 8.

Price- 3 of last 12 winners were favourites, 7/12 winners were in the top 3 in the betting.

Last Run- 5 of the last 12 winners won on their last run before the race.

Course Form- 9/12 winners had 1 previous run at Kempton, 6/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at the course.

Distance Form- 10/12 winners had at least 4 runs over 23-25 furlongs.

Rating- 9/12 winners were rated 162 or higher.

Contenders:

Every Christmas Racing fans look forward to Boxing Day and the spectacle of the King George at Kempton. This year's renewal is top class and interesting in equal measure. Following top class chasers throughout the year gives different back stories to the contenders.GAELIC WARRIOR has re-established his reputation as a top drawer chaser since his win at Aintree in April beating Grey Dawning and then in a titanic John Durkan duel with FACT TO FILE showed us his grit and stamina. I don't foresee both lining up at Kempton therefore Willie Mullins' charge will face British challengers JANGO BAIE,  JUKEBOX MAN and DJELO. JANGO BAIE produced a good turn of foot to win the Arkle and likes Kempton too, I see Nicky Henderson’s challenger stalking GAELIC WARRIOR hoping to strike late on. Harry Redknapp the owner of JUKEBOX MAN is rightly bullish after his Haydock win and Ben Pauling will have him primed but he must improve in the ratings to figure here. Of other Irish raiders the reigning champion BANBRIDGE should travel to defend his crown but on evidence of his reappearance at Cork last week has much to find if getting past this strong field. FASTORSLOW followed the duellers home in the John Durkan but again will need to improve greatly to figure here. DJELO retained the Peterborough Chase in facile fashion but like others needs a huge step up to get near to the big guns in this quality renewal.

GAELIC WARRIOR (WIN)

JANGO BAIE (E/W)

written by John Arnold