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Il Est Francais looking to make history in Ryanair Chase
The anticipation surrounding the Ryanair Chase at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival is palpable, with the French-trained Il Est Français emerging as a leading contender.
Trained by the Franco-British duo Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, seven-year-old gelding Il Est Francais has demonstrated exceptional talent and versatility, positioning him well for a historic victory in this prestigious Grade 1 event.
Career Highlights and Recent Form
Il Est Français has rapidly ascended the ranks of National Hunt racing, capturing attention with a series of impressive performances. His front-running style and impeccable jumping technique have been hallmarks of his racing approach. A notable performance was his runner-up finish in the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day 2024, where he led for much of the race before being overtaken by Banbridge in the closing stages. This performance underscored his stamina and competitiveness at the highest level.
Decision on Cheltenham Target
Initially entered in multiple races at the Cheltenham Festival, including the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, connections have opted to withdraw Il Est Français from the Gold Cup to focus on races more suited to his strengths. Trainer Noel George has indicated a preference for the Ryanair Chase, run over two miles and five furlongs, aligning with the horse’s proven capabilities over intermediate distances. George stated, “At this stage, we’re probably looking at the Ryanair for Il Est Français.” However, he also noted that final decisions would consider factors such as ground conditions and the competition.
Tactical Approach and Race Dynamics
Il Est Français is renowned for his bold front-running tactics, often setting a strong pace and challenging his rivals to keep up. This approach was evident in the King George VI Chase, where he established a significant lead before being caught late on. The slightly shorter distance of the Ryanair Chase may play to his advantage, allowing him to maintain his relentless gallop without the added strain of an extended trip. Analysts have observed that his ability to dictate races could be a decisive factor in the Ryanair Chase.
Key Rivals
The Ryanair Chase is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive affair, with several high-calibre horses expected to line up:
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Fact To File: Trained by Willie Mullins, Fact To File has been a standout performer this season, including a victory in the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase. Despite recent defeats over longer distances, the drop back to two and a half miles in the Ryanair Chase is anticipated to suit him well. Timeform ratings place him at 171, making him a formidable opponent.
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Protektorat: The defending Ryanair Chase champion, Protektorat, has shown consistent form and is known for his resilience and tactical versatility. His experience at Cheltenham adds to his credentials as a serious contender.
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Banbridge: Having bested Il Est Français in the King George VI Chase, Banbridge has proven his class and ability to perform under pressure. His participation adds an intriguing narrative to the race, setting up a potential rematch.
Training and Preparation
In the lead-up to Cheltenham, Il Est Français has been undergoing meticulous preparation at the Chantilly training grounds in France. Recent schooling sessions have reportedly gone well, with the horse displaying sharpness and enthusiasm. Trainer Noel George has expressed satisfaction with his condition, stating, “The Cheltenham runners schooled well on Wednesday morning and all is good.”
Ground Conditions and Final Considerations
The prevailing ground conditions at Cheltenham will play a crucial role in the final decision regarding Il Est Français’s participation in the Ryanair Chase. Connections have indicated that they will monitor weather patterns closely and assess the competition before making a definitive commitment. George emphasised the importance of these factors, noting that the horse’s well-being and optimal performance conditions are paramount.
Conclusion
Il Est Français stands on the cusp of making history in the Ryanair Chase, with his blend of speed, stamina, and jumping prowess marking him as a leading contender. His journey from French racing circuits to the Cheltenham Festival epitomizes the international allure of National Hunt racing. As the Festival approaches, racing enthusiasts eagerly await to see if this talented gelding can etch his name alongside the greats in Cheltenham’s storied history.
