3 minute read

One of the most popular days in both jumps and flat racing and this year's edition is great.

It starts off with the Kauto Star Noivces' Chase Gr 1 with 6 runners and here we have a chance to enjoy the talented French raider named obviously Il Est Francais.  At his home training track at Lamorlaye (near Chantilly) they made three jumps copies of English-style jumps so that the horse would be accustomed to their design.  He's on 7/4 and is not the favourite – that honour goes to Hermes Allen on 13/8.  The other runner in single figures is Giovinco on 9/4.

And then we have the great treat of watching Constitution Hill go round in the Christmas Hurdle.  We say "watch" as he's unbackable on 1/8.  Only other runner considered is Rubaud on 6/1.

And then it's the King George VI Chase Gr 1 with again 6 starters.  This is a much more difficult race to find a winner in but we will let the heart rule here and go for Shishkin on 4/1.  Favourite is Allaha for the formidable team of Mullins-Townend on 13/8, and the Bravemansgame is on 9/4.

At Leopardstown  there's the Juvenile Hurdle Gr 2 with 12 runners and following a good win at Punchestown Mighty Bandit had the top quote on 5/4.  Kargese had a good record in France with 2 wins from 3 starts at Auteuil so will be interesting to see how he goes here, and Kala Conti is on 5/1.

Another race to watch is the Racing Post Novice Chase – last edition – where Facile Vega, who is already favourite for the Arkle, seems to be without any serious opposition as the only possible challenger had to be scratched following an upset and that was just after beig substituted into the race.