What's Happening?
Tom George has been appointed to oversee the training of Il Est Francais, a seven-year-old horse with a notable racing history, including a Grade One win in 2022. Previously trained by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm in France, Il Est Francais is now set to be trained in England under the ownership of Richard and Lizzie Kelvin-Hughes. The decision to move the horse to England is seen as a strategic choice to better align with the racing program there. The horse has previously performed well at Kempton, notably winning the Kauto Star Novices' Chase in 2023 and narrowly missing victory in the King George VI Chase. The primary goal for Il Est Francais is to compete in the King George VI Chase on December 26, with a preparatory run planned in England.
Why It's Important?
The move of Il Est Francais to Tom George's training in England highlights the strategic decisions made by horse owners to optimize racing opportunities. This shift underscores the importance of aligning horses with racing programs that best suit their abilities and career stage. For the Kelvin-Hughes family, this transition represents a significant investment in English racing, potentially enhancing their presence and success in the UK racing scene. The decision also reflects broader trends in the racing industry, where horses are often moved across borders to capitalize on favorable conditions and competitions. This could influence other owners and trainers to consider similar strategies, impacting the dynamics of international horse racing.
What's Next?
Il Est Francais is expected to undergo a preparatory run in England before competing in the King George VI Chase. Tom George will focus on ensuring the horse is well-settled and in optimal condition for the upcoming races. The success of this transition could lead to more horses being trained in England, especially those at a crossroads in their careers. Stakeholders in the racing industry will be watching closely to see how Il Est Francais performs under George's training, which could influence future decisions regarding horse training and racing strategies.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to move Il Est Francais to England for training reflects broader considerations in the horse racing industry, such as the balance between tradition and strategic innovation. It highlights the evolving nature of horse ownership and training, where decisions are increasingly driven by data and performance metrics. This move could also prompt discussions about the cultural and economic implications of cross-border training in horse racing, potentially influencing regulatory and industry standards.
