Date: Tuesday 26th December 2023
The King George often tempts punters into overcomplicating things, but the race usually still goes to a horse with proven Grade 1 class, enough tactical speed for Kempton and the right age profile.
Most recent winners were aged between six and eight, had already run this season and brought strong form over this sort of trip. Previous Kempton experience is also a major positive and remains one of the most reliable indicators in the race.
These are the three that come out strongest on the Turf Talk figures.
TURF TALK RATINGS - LEADING CONTENDERS
| Horse | Turf Talk Rating |
|---|---|
| Allaho | 224 |
| Bravemansgame | 218 |
| Hewick | 203 |
| Shishkin | 197 |
| Frodon | 182 |
The ratings favour the proven Grade 1 horses again, with Kempton suitability likely to be the key factor in splitting the main players.
MAIN SELECTION
Allaho (2/1 available)
He comes out top on the figures and looks the most natural fit for the race on class and style.
He has the right level of Grade 1 form, plenty of tactical pace and the sort of cruising speed that often proves decisive around Kempton. If anywhere near his best, he sets a very high standard.
BACKUP SELECTION 1
Bravemansgame (7/2 available)
The obvious danger given his proven track form and strong all-round profile.
Few horses fit the modern King George template better and his previous Kempton form gives him a major chance. He may not have the same brilliance as the top-rated one at peak level, but he looks sure to be very competitive.
BACKUP SELECTION 2
Hewick (20/1 available)
Not the obvious one on public ratings, but one who makes some appeal as the lively outsider.
He has enough class and toughness to make his presence felt if the race turns tactical or one of the principals underperforms. At the prices, he looks the one most likely to shake up the market order. A big price for one that has come in at third in the ratings.
SUMMARY
Allaho heads the ratings and looks the strongest on pure class and track suitability, with Bravemansgame the obvious danger and Hewick the one at a bigger price who could get involved if the race does not unfold as expected.
