Kauto at Kempton

Today we went to Kempton Park to watch the re-scheduled Boxing Day King George VI Chase, with Kauto Star bidding to win it for the FITH time and thus beating Desert Orchid's record four victories.

Sadly Kauto was unable to fulfill this dream finishing a tired 3rd.

Long Run, the convincing winner, ridden by Amateur jockey, Sam Whaley Cohen, would have received rapturous applause on any other occasion, but the crowd were subdued as he crossed the line, and also in the winner's enclosure.

It was a mild but very dull day and as no flash photography is allowed at the races, this was the best I managed. It's a photo of the big screen, showing Long Run tracking Kauto Star as they set out on the second circuit.
The slogan 'Day Time. Night Time' on the screen seems rather appropriate, even though it was only 3 p.m.

My daughter, known as Kate O'Star by her brothers, and I had a great day.