How To Claim The Big Prize At Kempton

Andy Newton on crucial clues to solve the big Christmas chase

The King George VI Chase on Boxing Day is one of the jumping highlights on the calendar and a contest that seasoned racegoers and the more recreational punters come together to try and get their Christmas expenses paid for by Mr Bookie.

The Grade One Chase is second only to the Grand National when it comes to the ‘once-a-year’ punters coming out to have a bet, and in recent years it’s certainly been a contest the bookies have hated.

Yes, with Clan Des Obeaux winning at 12/1 last year and the favourite – Might Bite – unplaced, there was a bit of respite for the layers – however, from 2002 we’ve seen a staggering 11 of the last 17 (65%) favourites take the first prize - with 14 of the last 17 market leaders also placed.

Add in that a huge 88% of the last 17 winners returned 9/2 or shorter in the betting, then this suggests the backers don’t often get it wrong in the King George.

So, can we expect more of the same this year?

Despite being run over 3 miles, many feel the King George doesn’t require too much stamina to win, with Kempton being flat track. However, it’s normally run at a fair old lick, so whereas in some of the other staying chases horses can get a chance to fill their lungs, it’s not always the case in this contest. Meaning that stamina is still a huge asset and this is backed-up with 14 of the last 17 winners having previously won over 3 miles.

In recent years the King George has also been dominated by previous winners. We’ve seen NH greats like Desert Orchid, The Fellow, One Man, See More Business, Kicking King, Kauto Star, Long Run and, most-recently, Silviniaco Conti all land the King George at least twice.

This year, the winner from 12 months ago – Clan Des Obeaux – will be the latest horse to try and defend his crown.

What are the key trends to note?