Our man Sam Twiston-Davies reflects on the King George and looks ahead to a strong book of rides at Newbury
IF you see me with a grin on my face at Newbury today — it’s because I’m still smiling from Boxing Day.
Ask any jump jockey what they would want most for Christmas and they’ll tell you ‘to win the King George’.
Well, Santa sent me Clan Des Obeaux — and I’m still walking on air after his Kempton win.
Not that I was the only one to be celebrating a big-race win over the Festive period.
It was great to see Jack Tudor win the Welsh National. He’s only 17 and, being a local lad, too, it must have been a dream win.
I have been trying to watch as much of the Irish action as well. For me there have been two standout performances over there this week — Rachael Blackmore and the super win by Faugheen.
Rachael won two Grade 1s and is probably the best woman jump jockey we have ever seen.
As for Faugheen, the Machine is back! He demolished Samcro. It will be interesting to see where he goes at Cheltenham.
It’s non-stop this time of year and I head to Newbury for five nice rides. I’m really looking forward to One For Rosie (1.50).
He has his first start since finishing third in a Grade 1 at Aintree. He had a couple of setbacks but has done plenty of work and is in good form.
It’s great to have him back. He has a touch of class but may just need this run.
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Vienna Court (12.05) is a nice mare and is getting the hang of things now and I’m hopeful of a good run on handicap debut.
I’ve a good chance on Moving In Style (2.25). He ran a cracker at Haydock last time and stays well. Kilpin (12.40) makes his debut and is a lovely horse for the future. He’s one to watch.
Kapgary (3.35) gets in off a light weight and the track and ground will be in his favour.
He should go well, but it’s definitely a hot race.