King Turgeon showcased his impressive jumping skills and stamina to win the BoyleSports Grand Sefton Handicap Chase at Aintree, solidifying his status as a contender over the National fences.
Under the guidance of jockey Jack Tudor, the six-year-old gelding, trained by David Pipe, secured victory with a decisive performance, finishing three and a quarter lengths ahead of the fast-closing Vintage Fizz.
With 9-2 horse racing odds, King Turgeon was positioned prominently from the outset. Having won his seasonal reappearance at Chepstow by 10 lengths, he entered this race in top form and took an early position near the front.
Tudor’s strategy allowed King Turgeon to stay on the inner and conserve energy even after temporarily giving way to Frero Banbou following the sixth fence. As the field approached the final two obstacles, King Turgeon reclaimed the lead, delivering a series of strong jumps that helped him pull away from his competitors.
King Turgeon’s Victory at Aintree’s Grand Sefton Handicap Chase
Reflecting on the race, Tudor praised King Turgeon’s jumping ability and resilience. “He travelled round really nicely and jumped really well,” Tudor said. “He got passed going down by the Canal Turn, but it was good that I kept my place on the inner. From turning in to the line, all he has done is keep galloping. He has always been a good jumper, and if he took to these fences, that was going to be his asset today.”
As a French-bred horse, King Turgeon is still adapting to the British style of racing, but his impressive performance at Aintree demonstrates his growing maturity and potential for more success in the UK. This victory marked a significant milestone for Tudor, who secured his first win over the Grand National fences, a thrilling achievement for any jockey.
Trainer David Pipe was equally delighted with King Turgeon’s success. “I am thrilled. It is brilliant for everyone in the yard. This is a massive win on a big Saturday for Pond House and his owners, Somerset Racing,” Pipe said. The Grand Sefton Handicap Chase had been a long-term target for King Turgeon, and Pipe had confidence in his horse’s ability to tackle the National fences, having schooled him over a similar fence at home.
Vintage Fizz Looks Ahead After Strong Performance in Grand Sefton Handicap
Vintage Fizz, trained by Jedd O’Keeffe and ridden by Conor O’Farrell, put in a commendable effort to finish second. Despite not clinching victory, Vintage Fizz’s connections were pleased with his performance and are already looking ahead to his future races.
“That was an absolutely outstanding run for us and really exciting,” said O’Keeffe. “He was given a lovely ride and got into a lovely rhythm. This was a race we always fancied having a go at, and we have got lucky with the ground.”
Looking ahead, O’Keeffe has outlined the Topham Chase in the spring as a possible target for Vintage Fizz, along with a return to the Grand Sefton next year if conditions allow. Vintage Fizz’s impressive jumping style and rhythm make him well-suited for shorter races over the National fences, while the longer Becher Chase is unlikely to be part of his horse racing schedule.
