As the holiday season unfolds, December transforms into a month of glittering decorations, hearty feasts, and spectacular horse racing. Amid the whirlwind of festive cheer and sporting action, fans can revel in the magic of top-tier jump racing across Britain and Ireland. From thrilling contests at iconic venues like Kempton and Sandown to the vibrant atmosphere of Leopardstown, December promises unforgettable experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the highlights and how you can secure your spot for these exhilarating events.
England
Northern Circuit
- Becher Chase, Aintree. Taking place on December 7, the Becher Chase offers the last chance to witness action over Aintree's legendary green fences before April. Known for its marathon length and demanding conditions, this race showcases the grit and stamina of its contenders without the bustling crowds of Grand National day.
- Rowland Meyrick Chase, Wetherby. Scheduled for Boxing Day, Wetherby’s Rowland Meyrick Chase continues to charm racing enthusiasts, even if it no longer hosts the same calibre of competition as in its 1980s heyday. This festive fixture remains a crowd-puller during the holiday season.
Midlands Action
- Peterborough Chase, Huntingdon. On December 8, Huntingdon’s premier raceday shines with the Grade 2 Peterborough Chase, a two-and-a-half-mile contest that boasts legendary winners like Best Mate and Monet’s Garden.
Southern Showdowns
- Tingle Creek Chase, Sandown. The December 7 spectacle focuses on speed and flair, offering a two-mile dash that has crowned charismatic champions such as Altior and Sprinter Sacre. Named after the flamboyant jumper Tingle Creek, this race is a must-watch for fans of high-octane action.
- December Gold Cup, Cheltenham. Held on December 14, this race mirrors the Paddy Power Gold Cup from the previous month, often attracting the same elite competitors. With illustrious winners like Frodon and Dublin Flyer, the December Gold Cup is a highlight on Cheltenham’s calendar.
- Christmas Raceday, Ascot. Ascot promises festive fun on December 21, with the Long Walk Hurdle as the main attraction. This gruelling marathon has been dominated in recent years by the beloved Paisley Park.
- King George VI Chase, Kempton. Boxing Day at Kempton is synonymous with the King George VI Chase, Britain’s second-most prestigious steeplechase. Past legends such as Desert Orchid and Kauto Star have etched their names in history here.
Scotland
- Scottish Borders National, Kelso. Experience the charm of Kelso, often hailed as Britain’s friendliest racecourse, on December 8. Alongside the Scottish Borders National, the day features a high-stakes handicap chase, promising an electrifying spectacle for spectators perched atop the historic stone grandstand.
Wales
- Welsh Grand National, Chepstow. On December 27, the Coral Welsh Grand National takes centre stage, celebrating Welsh racing pride. Known for its gruelling eight-minute duration, this event showcases resilience and strength, making it a winter classic.
Ireland
- Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, Fairyhouse. On December 1, Fairyhouse hosts a double Grade 1 feature, including the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle. This prestigious two-mile hurdle delivers action-packed racing that rivals the best fixtures of the month.
- Leopardstown Christmas Festival. Running from December 26 to 29, Leopardstown’s four-day festival combines festive cheer with Cheltenham Festival previews. With highlights like the Savills Chase, this event brings together top contenders for a series of exhilarating races.
With December brimming with racing excitement, each venue offers a unique slice of the festive magic. Whether you’re drawn to the rich traditions of Kempton or the vibrant scenes at Leopardstown, tickets are available now to ensure you don’t miss out on the action. Get ready to embrace the thrill, drama, and spectacle of December racing at its finest!