The Leopardstown Christmas Festival has quickly established itself as one of Ireland's premier racing events, bringing together some of the best horses, trainers, and jockeys for thrilling competitions. This year's event promises to be no different, with top races like the Savills Chase and significant matchups on the card, including the rematch between champions Galopin Des Champs and Fact To File.
This action-packed festival will commence on St. Stephen's Day, December 26, 2024, at Leopardstown Racecourse, located just outside Dublin. The card is set to feature several key races, drawing heavy support from fans eager to witness the next generation of racing talent.
One of the standout events is the Savills Chase scheduled for December 27 at 2:35 PM. This race will see the return of Fact To File, who, after his impressive victory over Galopin Des Champs, has the chance to re-establish himself as the dominant force in the field. After lowering the colors of the dual Cheltenham Gold Cup winner at Punchestown, expectations are high for him to defend his title successfully, especially with the support of the Davies stable.
Keith Donoghue, recognized for his expertise at the festival, expressed his excitement about riding some promising horses this weekend. He highlighted Home By The Lee, the 2022 Savills Champion, describing how the horse has been 'sweeping past his rivals' and is 'coming off strong performances,' including victory over Bob Olinger at last month's Lismullen Hurdle. Donoghue anticipates this horse will be difficult to beat, with the potential to replicate past success.
Meanwhile, Bob Olinger, who also has had his share of ups and downs, remains one to watch. Donoghue remarked, 'Bob Olinger is running well at home,' referring to the horse’s recent preparations. Despite losing to Home By The Lee last month, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to compete at the highest levels, finishing strong races previously.
Another horse garnering attention is Koktail Divin, set to compete in the opening maiden hurdle on the first day of the festival. Riding jockey has revealed, 'I'm really looking forward to riding Koktail Divin; he looks exciting for the future.' After successful runs on the flat racing circuit, his debut over hurdles is highly anticipated. Jockeys believe he has the potential to exceed expectations during this festival.
For the two-mile-five-and-a-half-furlong beginners' chase, An Tobar will compete. His previous experience shines through, having won convincingly his only point-to-point, indicating significant promise. After not having competed for nearly two years, this race will serve as his stepping stone back to form, where jockeys are optimistic about his chances due to solid training.
The festival's supporting card features the Rising Stars Beginners Chase, boasting the much-anticipated chasing debut of Quai De Bourbon. After performing impressively at the Cheltenham Festival, there is substantial buzz surrounding his switch to larger obstacles. He is expected to compete hard against An Tobar, adding to the excitement surrounding this year's festival.
Rachael Blackmore, riding for formidable trainer Henry de Bromhead, will also have Lady Rose Hackett racing for the first time in the competitive handicap hurdle. Blackmore commented: 'She has shown ability to improve and is well prepared to show her form.' With consistent past performances, expectations are geared for success.
Trainers have expressed confidence not just about their runners, but about the entire slate of races scheduled for the festival. Many are ensuring their horses are well-conditioned and focused, ready to tackle the challenges. The thrill of competition has advisers and experts proclaiming this is one of the most competitive fields the festival has seen to date.
With races commencing on St. Stephen's Day and continuing through the Christmas period, the Leopardstown Christmas Festival will not just highlight current champion horses, but pave the way for shows of future contenders approaching the Cheltenham Festival. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with crowds flocking to witness tactical racing and the sheer excitement of the event.
So whether you're at the racetrack or tuning in from home, get ready to cheer for your favorites! The Leopardstown Christmas Festival has something for everyone, and this year's storyline is sure to engage horse racing fans and newcomers alike.
