Santa still had some goodies in the sack for those who went to Kempton.

They were treated to a magnificent display of jumping by Il Est Francais in the Kauto Star.  He made a mistake at one fence only – five from home – but soon recovered and continued in the lead and flying over the fences.  We had heard from our French spies that he was special and he more than lied up to the hype.  Connections want to win the French Gold Cup this year so no Cheltenham but who knows what the future holds? 

Then Constitution Hill in the Christmas Hurdle.  We already knew how good he was and it was a delight just to see him go round in that seemingly effortless style.

And then the King George was a bit of an upset as it went to Hewick who had been 550/1 I running but our beloved Shishkin who was doing so well stumbled at the second last and tipped out Nico de Boinville.  Bravemansgame and Allaha took the places.

At Leopardstown the Juvenile Hurdle went to Kala Conti with Kargese second.

Favourite The Mighty Bandit still is a little bit away from being the real deal.  And in the

Racing Post Novice Chase odds-on favourite Facile Vega ran a shocker and the win went to Found A Fifty on 16/5 in a four horse race.