L’Homme Presse is being primed for a highly competitive edition of the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. The nine-year-old, trained by Venetia Williams, will make his second appearance at Kempton Park’s Christmas highlight, hoping to improve on his dramatic outing last year. In 2022, he led the field into the final stretch but lost momentum after being overtaken by Bravemansgame at the penultimate fence, unseating jockey Charlie Deutsch at the last hurdle.
Following a 391-day hiatus, L’Homme Presse returned triumphantly in January, winning the Fleur De Lys Chase at Lingfield. He later secured second place in the Ascot Chase and delivered a commendable fourth-place finish in the Gold Cup. However, a disrupted autumn ruled him out of this season’s Betfair Chase at Haydock. His connections are now targeting a return to the Fleur De Lys—relocated to Windsor in the New Year—while focusing on redemption in Kempton’s prestigious event.
Peter Pink, who co-owns the horse alongside Patricia Pink, Andy Edwards, and Pam Sharman, explained that Kempton remains the main objective as long as the ground isn’t firmer than good to soft. He noted the limited opportunities for top-level horses in the UK before Christmas and expressed confidence in Williams’ preparation. Pink mentioned that although minor setbacks, including a bout of colic, delayed L’Homme Presse’s readiness for Haydock, the gelding is now back in great form.
Discussing future plans, Pink shared that the Fleur De Lys Chase is still on the radar, provided there are no further injuries or issues. He praised Edwards’ dedication to the horse’s care, humorously highlighting his habit of bringing plenty of carrots during visits. “He looks in fantastic shape and doesn’t have too many miles on the clock,” Pink remarked, crediting Williams’ careful handling.
Despite being a 9-4 favourite in last year’s King George, L’Homme Presse faces a tougher field this time and is currently listed at 25-1 by Ladbrokes, with French contender Il Est Francais leading the betting. Acknowledging the challenge, Pink highlighted that favourable ground conditions could boost their chances. If the ground softens with rain, he believes they might have an outside shot in what promises to be a fiercely contested race.