Festive front-runners have had a joyful few days, even if it didn't work out for Il Est Francais

Banbridge overhauled a game Il Est Francais in the King George VI Chase

Front-running was the way to go over the festive period, even if Il Est Francais (left) overdid it slightlyCredit: Alan Crowhurst (Getty Images)

Bravery in forcing a strong pace was a feature of our quality races this Christmas. We saw jockeys trying to run the finish out of their rivals, to build up unassailable leads, all the while hoping their mounts had enough in reserve to scramble home before exhaustion hit.

It worked beautifully for Sam Ewing on Brighterdaysahead on Sunday, while a return to front-running helped Galopin Des Champs to assert his dominance once more on Saturday.

All the way back on Thursday, Il Est Francais's swashbuckling approach to the King George made for a thrilling show, but it didn't have a happy ending for him.

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Chris CookSenior writer

Published on 29 December 2024inThe Cook Review

Last updated 18:08, 29 December 2024

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