BEST ride of the Christmas festivals? There were lots of contenders. Keith Donoghue’s ride on Hardline at Limerick was one, Davy Russell’s ride on Delta Work at Leopardstown was another, Mark Walsh’s ride on Simply Ned was another. But David Mullins might just have shaded it for his ride on Kemboy in the Savills Chase.

Fully cognisant of the sedate early pace, Mullins allowed his horse stride to the front with a circuit to race. It was a brave move, especially given that it was a move that was apparently contrary to pre-race instructions. When you do that, when you go against instructions, you are on a hiding to nothing. If you get beaten in that instance, the argument can easily be made that it was the tactics were incorrect. If you follow instructions and get beaten, you were only following instructions.

Kemboy may have won anyway. Willie Mullins’ horse had so much in hand at the end of the race. But Mullins’ move maximised his chances, reacting to a situation that wasn’t foreseen. That’s what the best riders do.

Youngsters to the fore

THE three big staying chases of the Christmas period were all won by six-year-olds. Kemboy won the Savills Chase, Clan Des Obeaux won the King George and Elegant Escape won the Welsh National.

Kemboy was the only six-year-old in the Savills Chase and Clan Des Obeaux was the only six-year-old in the King George. And there were just two six-year-olds in the Welsh Grand National, Elegant Escape and Ramses De Teillee and, remarkably, they finished first and second.

All four were very good in their respective races, yet all four have youth on their side and deep potential for further progression as staying steeplechasers.

Greatest cheer

WHEN Faugheen got up.