Kempton And Aintree All Set For Thrilling Boxing Day Cards

A dip in temperatures over Christmas is not anticipated to cause any concerns for the interesting Boxing Day cards in shop at Kempton and Aintree.


Kempton hosts what guarantees to be a remarkable renewal of the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase, where the Willie Mullins-trained duo of Fact To File and Gaelic Warrior are set for a rematch after their scintillating John Durkan clash.


The nation has not been treated to a white and while there might be low readings overnight ahead of Boxing Day, the projection ought to not trouble racing fans ahead of the conference.


Kempton clerk Barney Clifford said: "We were down to two degrees overnight and there is an easterly wind that is really cold.


"Ground conditions are given as good, excellent to soft in locations. Tony Martin exercised his runner today and he thought it was beautiful ground, we're in a great place.


"We have actually a got a frost projection tonight and it might get down to minus one (degrees Celsius), however we must be OK on that as we've got liftoffs and landings covered, and vulnerable locations.


Jockeys before the Ladbrokes Kauto Star Novices ´ Chase on King George VI Chase Day at Kempton Park (Steven Paston for the Jockey Club)


"It's an incredible card throughout the 2 days, we're actually anticipating it."


Aintree are likewise set to stage a Grade One card with the William Hill Formby Novices' Hurdle the feature, and they too are faring well ahead ground-wise ahead of Boxing Day.


Clerk of the course Sulekha Varma stated: "We're great to soft, soft in locations without any sign of any rain.


"It's turned chillier today but we didn't get a frost this morning, we might get a grass frost tomorrow but nothing of issue.


"We're eagerly anticipating a really good day of racing."