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
There is no horse racing at Kempton today so there are no odds available for this course. Instead, check out the horse racing odds on today’s races at other courses.
King George Chase Racecard
The King George Chase Racecard for Friday, 20th December 2024 is not available yet. It will be available by 12pm the day before. View today’s racecards on upcoming races at other racecourses.
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. Daryl Jacob, who has yet to win in seven attempts, has not found success in this race. Favourites have struggled here, with only three winning over the past ten 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?
In what was a truly memorable race, Hewick outstayed Bravemansgame in the 2023 renewal. The race was seemingly within the grasp of Nicky Henderson’s Shishkin. However, he unseated Nico De Boinville at the last fence and that left their two rivals to fight out the finish.
What is the prize money for the King George VI Chase?
The prize money for winning this prestigious race is worth just over £140,000 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.
