The King George VI Chase is a prestigious Grade 1 National Hunt steeplechase open to horses aged four years and older. Held annually on Boxing Day at Kempton Park Racecourse as part of the Christmas Festival, the race spans about three miles and includes eighteen fences.
King George Chase Odds & Runners
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Ladbrokes King George VI Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race)
An intriguing international look to this year's Christmas showpiece, with Irish raider SPILLANE'S TOWER taken to come out on top. A progressive novice last season when landing Grade 1s at Fairyhouse and Punchestown, the six-year-old returned with a career-best display in the John Durkan when splitting two of Willie Mullins' stable stars in second over an extended 2m3f. This will be his first start outside of Ireland, but he has always appealed as a classy sort and he will relish going back up in trip. French hopes lie with the enigmatic but talented Il Est Francais, who has disappointed twice since his exhilarating performance in the Kauto Star on this card last year. Dropping back to 3m on a flat track could suit Grey Dawning ideally, having jumped and travelled well for most of the Betfair Chase before being worn down after the last. A winner here in January, Banbridge looked like he was coming to challenge Energumene at Cork when unseating at the last, and he is well worth another go at 3m. Of the others, 2022 winner Bravemansgame may have each-way claims, while L'Homme Presse remains lightly raced for his age and goes well fresh.
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King George VI Chase Overview
The King George VI Chase is a highlight of Boxing Day, run over three miles on Kempton Park’s relatively flat track, with eighteen challenging fences. Open to horses aged four and above, the race draws elite steeplechasers, many of whom go on to compete in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
With a prize of £140,000, it attracts top talent, adding to its rich history of champions like Kauto Star, who claimed five wins, and Desert Orchid, who triumphed three times. Other legendary winners include Best Mate, Kicking King, and Long Run.
King George VI Chase Betting Trends and Statistics
Trainer Paul Nicholls has dominated the King George VI Chase over the past two decades, securing eleven victories with horses such as Kauto Star (2006-2009, 2011), Silviniaco Conti (2013, 2014), Clan Des Obeaux (2018, 2019), Frodon (2020), and Bravemansgame (2022). Other notable trainers with multiple wins are Nicky Henderson (3) and Tom Taaffe (2). In contrast, David Pipe has had thirteen attempts in the race without success.
The leading jockey is Harry Cobden, with wins aboard Clan Des Obeaux (2018) and Bravemansgame (2022). Other jockeys aiming for their second win include Sam Twiston-Davies, Nico De Boinville, Bryony Frost, Gavin Sheehan, and Danny Mullins. Favourites have struggled here, with only three winning over the past eleven years.
King George VI Chase History
The King George VI Chase was first run in February 1937, named in honour of the newly crowned British monarch, King George VI. The race was held only twice before World War II, as Kempton Park was closed during the war and used as a prisoner-of-war camp. Just four horses competed in each of the pre-war editions, with the inaugural winner, Southern Hero, remaining the oldest winner in the race’s history.
After the war, the race returned in 1947 on a new date—Boxing Day. Today, the King George VI Chase is considered to be the second most prestigious chase in England, second only to the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Fifteen horses have won it multiple times, with Desert Orchid achieving four wins and Kauto Star five wins.
Previous King George VI Chase Winners
King George VI Chase FAQ
Who won the King George VI Chase in 2023?
Irish raider Banbridge took the 2004 renewal reeling in long time leader Il Est Francais over the last giving trainer Joseph O’Brien and jockey Paul Townend their first wins in the prestigious race.
What is the prize money for the King George VI Chase?
The prize money for winning this prestigious race is worth just over £148,000 to the winning connections.
When is the King George VI Chase?
The King George VI Chase is run on 26th December every year (weather permitting).
How many fences are in the King George VI Chase?
There are eighteen fences to be jumped over a three-mile trip around Kempton Park.
How many horses race in the King George VI Chase?
The race usually attracts between five and ten runners. It may not be the biggest of field sizes, but the race is always worth watching as it only attracts the most elite competitors.
Which horses are eligible for the King George VI Chase?
Horses aged four and older are eligible to run in the King George VI Chase.
