CLAN DES OBEAUX returned home the king of Kempton once again as he bolted up in the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day.
We were treated to a real Christmas cracker once again, but it was Sam Twiston-Davies and Paul Nicholls who were popping open the champagne shortly after 3pm.
Outsider Aso caused a minor surprise as he took up the early running with Harry Cobden and favourite Cyrname settling in second.
Clan Des Obeaux was happy to sit in behind with Footpad and Lostintranslation – but the latter was never at the races and on the second circuit jockey Robbie Power was already pushing along intermittently.
Cyrname took up the lead as Aso dropped back but eyes were always drawn to Clan Des Obeaux who travelled sweetly in behind.
Footpad threatened briefly but was quickly left behind as Clan Des Obeaux and Twiston-Davies swept to the front.
Cyrname had no answer to his stablemate with Clan Des Obeaux going further and further clear.
Nicholls said: “Cyrname just didn’t seem to have the normal zest. I was never really happy after he jumped a couple.
“But Clan Des Obeaux has had a great preparation, he improved from Down Royal to here.
“He’s a better horse this year he’s stronger and if he keeps going forward it could put him into the Gold Cup picture.
“We’ll see what we decide but we could go straight to Cheltenham from here.”
