Kempton And Aintree All Set For Thrilling Boxing Day Cards

A dip in temperatures over Christmas is not anticipated to trigger any concerns for the amazing Boxing Day cards in store at Kempton and Aintree.


Kempton hosts what pledges to be a memorable renewal of the Ladbrokes 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 actually not been treated to a white Christmas and while there could be low readings overnight ahead of Boxing Day, the projection ought to not difficulty racing fans ahead of the conference.


Kempton clerk Barney Clifford said: "We were down to 2 degrees over night and there is an easterly wind that is very cold.


"Ground conditions are provided as excellent, excellent to soft in places. Tony Martin exercised his runner today and he thought it was lovely ground, we remain in an excellent place.


"We have actually a got a frost forecast tonight and it may come down to minus one (degrees Celsius), however we must be OK on that as we've got take-offs and landings covered, and susceptible areas.


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 a sensational card across the two days, we're really looking forward to it."


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


Clerk of the course Sulekha Varma stated: "We're good to soft, soft in places with no indication of any rain.


"It's turned colder today however we didn't get a frost this early morning, we may get a lawn frost tomorrow however absolutely nothing of concern.


"We're anticipating a really excellent day of racing."