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In a dawning era for Britain, the pressing question looms—will there be trust in the future, or are we witnessing another abdication that could redefine the legacy of King George VI?
King George VI took the throne in 1936 following the abdication of King Edward VIII.
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If Grey Dawning misses his opportunity, today’s showcase on ITV may witness a shift towards fierce contenders from Ireland and France, both of whom are offering strong competition.
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It’s worth noting that Grey Dawning is not the only contender capable of securing the Grade 1 Ladbrokes-sponsored Boxing Day event for Britain.
As I take a moment to reflect on a delightful Christmas Day, L’Homme Presse and Bravemansgame both appear poised for a strong domestic showing.
However, if the odds are any indication, Grey Dawning stands out as a key contender.
Dan Skelton’s impressive seven-year-old brings to mind legendary horses such as Desert Orchid, One Man, and Teeton Mill.
A strong novice, he claimed victory in the Grade 1 Turners’ Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and returned impressively this season with a remarkable performance in the Betfair Chase at Haydock.
Yet, the soft ground that day seemed to hinder him in the closing stages, finishing two lengths behind Royale Pagaille.
With a rating of 165, he is well-positioned and is from a stable that is in excellent form, complemented by the outstanding performance of jockey Harry Skelton.
The Irish contender Spillane’s Tower, also rated at 165 and competing in a field of 11, gives trainer Jimmy Mangan a shot at a notable victory.
Having been the runner-up in the John Durkan, his credentials are impressive, having secured a Grade 1 win at a similar distance, albeit in a less competitive race in Punchestown.
Punters criticize nine ‘terrible rides’ as horse and jockey ‘gifted’ a 30-length lead but stewards report ‘nothing to see here’
At merely six years old, Spillane’s Tower has a lot to offer and should not be underestimated.
Banbridge, another participant rated 165, is also in contention, racing under Joseph O’Brien’s tutelage.
A Grade 2 winner at Kempton, this distance may prove challenging for him.
Envoi Allen, rated at 164, faces a tough challenge to keep pace, and given his age of ten, that could be a significant hurdle.
Nonetheless, his natural talent was evident when he narrowly defeated Hewick in the Champion Chase at Down Royal.
I would still be surprised to see him triumph for Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore, but surprises are always a possibility!
Corbetts Cross, also owned by JP McManus alongside Spillane’s Tower, achieved a decisive victory in the National Hunt Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.
However, two subsequent defeats suggest he may need to overcome further obstacles to clinch this title.
What about the French competitors? General En Chief, Juntos Ganamos, and Il Est Francais evoke memories of King George VI, bringing stars like First Gold, Algan, The Fellow, and Nupsala to mind.
In my view, Il Est Francais stands out as the most talented runner among the competitors, despite currently holding a mark of just 154.
However, there lies a catch in Il Est Francais’ troubled history!
After an impressive outing in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase last year, he faltered twice at Auteuil in significant races.
Bleeding under exertion appears to be his major vulnerability.
Though the risk is considerable, James Reveley’s mount possesses a unique flair, and Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm have likely refined his training with hopes of improvement.
If he can resurrect his form from 2023, Il Est Francais might simply take command of the race.
Apart from the main chase, racing fans will eagerly anticipate the clash between reigning champion Constitution Hill and rising star Lossiemouth in a thrilling duel for the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle.
Lossiemouth may take the lead as the favorite under Paul Townend for Willie Mullins, despite facing a 15lb deficit based on official ratings.
The critical question remains whether Constitution Hill can regain the brilliance he showcased 366 days ago.
During that race, he utterly dominated Rubaud, having previously won the 2023 Champion Hurdle.
Moreover, a highly anticipated return is set from The Jukebox Man for Harry Redknapp in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase.
Key races lie ahead. An extraordinary day is on the horizon. The most wonderful time of the year has arrived.
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