In a heart-pounding display of determination and resilience, Hewick, ridden by the skilled jockey Gavin Sheehan, pulled off a stunning victory in the prestigious King George VI Chase at Kempton. The 12-1 underdog, who had experienced disappointment in the Galway Plate, overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to claim the crown.
As the race unfolded, it appeared that Shishkin, Bravemansgame, and Allaho were poised to dominate the competition. However, fate had other plans. Shishkin, the early front-runner, stumbled after the second last fence, resulting in jockey Nico de Boinville’s unfortunate unseating. This twist of events left Bravemansgame and Allaho in control, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
But in a dramatic turn of events that could only be described as a true underdog story, Hewick, seemingly out of contention, summoned his inner strength and surged from the back of the pack to claim victory. The crowd watched in awe as this small but incredibly spirited horse defied the odds.
Gavin Sheehan, the triumphant jockey, shared his thoughts after the thrilling race, saying, “If it wasn’t a King George, I probably would have pulled him up. He stays and stays. He is a small horse but he has the biggest heart. To come here and do that is amazing.”
Hewick’s journey to this remarkable triumph is a testament to the unpredictable nature of horse racing. Despite being a bargain purchase at just £800, Hewick has previously won the Galway Plate and the American Grand National. With his regular jockey Jordan Gainford sidelined due to injury and Rachael Blackmore busy at Leopardstown, trainer Shark Hanlon made the inspired choice of having the in-form Gavin Sheehan in the saddle.
Hanlon couldn’t contain his excitement, stating, “It’s unreal. I said to Gavin, ‘Listen, he will stay all day,’ but they went very hard, and he just couldn’t lay up with them. On a tougher track, it will be a better job for him, but we are here today, and he won, which is amazing.”
Looking ahead, the trainer revealed Hewick’s next challenge, saying, “Straight to Cheltenham now. It’s probably the wrong race as he should go for the English National but there is only one Gold Cup.”
In a day filled with thrilling racing action at Kempton, Constitution Hill, the Champion Hurdle winner, made a triumphant return in the Christmas Hurdle, securing an easy victory. The extended wait for his seasonal reappearance proved worthwhile as he cruised to a nine-and-a-half-length win, setting his sights on retaining his Cheltenham crown in March.
Additionally, Il Est Francais made a remarkable British debut in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase, showcasing exceptional jumping skills. Despite briefly facing a challenge from Paul Nicholls’ Hermes Allen, Il Est Francais, trained in France by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, ultimately pulled away, winning by an impressive 11 lengths.
George expressed optimism about the horse’s future, saying, “He is a horse with so many different options. A French Gold Cup then a King George here next year is very much what we would be thinking, but whether we go to Cheltenham we would have to see.”
In the world of horse racing, where unpredictability reigns supreme, these thrilling performances at Kempton added another layer of excitement to the sport. Hewick’s incredible comeback, Constitution Hill’s dominance, and Il Est Francais’ promising debut all remind us why horse racing continues to captivate fans around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about King George VI Chase
Q: Who won the King George VI Chase at Kempton?
A: Hewick, ridden by Gavin Sheehan, emerged as the surprise winner of the King George VI Chase at Kempton.
Q: What were the key moments in the race?
A: The race saw Shishkin leading early but slipping after the second last fence, leaving Bravemansgame and Allaho in control. However, Hewick staged a remarkable comeback from last place to secure the victory.
Q: How did the jockey, Gavin Sheehan, describe Hewick’s performance?
A: Gavin Sheehan described Hewick as a small horse with a big heart, stating, “He stays and stays. To come here and do that is amazing.”
Q: What are Hewick’s previous achievements in horse racing?
A: Hewick, despite being a budget buy at £800, had previously won the Galway Plate and the American Grand National.
Q: What are the future plans for Hewick in terms of racing?
A: Trainer Shark Hanlon mentioned that Hewick’s next target is Cheltenham, although it might not be the ideal race for him, with the English National also being a consideration.
Q: Were there other notable races at Kempton on that day?
A: Yes, Constitution Hill, the Champion Hurdle winner, enjoyed an easy win in the Christmas Hurdle, while Il Est Francais impressed in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase on his British debut.
Q: Who trains Il Est Francais, and what are their plans for the horse?
A: Il Est Francais is trained in France by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm. Their plans include considering a French Gold Cup and aiming for the King George in the following year. Cheltenham participation is also under consideration.
More about King George VI Chase
- BBC Sport – Hewick’s thrilling King George VI Chase victory
- ITV Racing – Gavin Sheehan’s insights on Hewick’s performance
- The Guardian – Constitution Hill’s comfortable win in the Christmas Hurdle
- Racing Post – Il Est Francais’ impressive British debut
- Kempton Park Racecourse Official Website
4 comments
Constitution Hill, beast in Xmas Hurdle. Can’t wait 4 Cheltenham!
Il Est Francais, so fast, wow! King George next year? Cool!
Hewick’s win, story of da day. Great article, gotta share it!
wow, what a race! Hewick sho surprizd evry1 wiv dat comback. Sheehan rlly luvd him, said he big heart. Amazing stuff!