Sir Gino made a remarkable comeback to the racecourse on 27th December, claiming victory in the Grade One Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park. Returning to action after nearly a year away since his winning chase debut at the same venue, the five-year-old It’s Gino gelding showcased both speed and composure, leaving spectators and connections alike in awe. Now unbeaten in seven career starts, Sir Gino asserted his dominance with a commanding performance over 2025 Champion Hurdle heroine Golden Ace.
Taking the lead at the third flight, Sir Gino never looked in any real danger. Guided expertly by Nico de Boinville, he quickened impressively approaching the final flight and crossed the finish line six lengths clear. The Joe and Marie Donnelly-owned runner executed a masterclass in hurdling, demonstrating the talent that has made him one of the season’s most eagerly anticipated stars.
Winning trainer Nicky Henderson expressed his delight after the race: “It has been a tough old year, and there were times when we were worried, but the team has done a brilliant job. Sir Gino is happy, and seeing him back like this is a huge relief. He is a very quick horse and extraordinary in his ability. Today he just enjoyed himself out there.”
Henderson added that the horse’s future remains an exciting question: “There are two obvious ways — the Champion Hurdle or the Champion Chase. We’ll see how the picture shapes up, but Sir Gino has an outstanding chance in either scenario.”
Golden Ace, trained by Jeremy Scott, ran a valiant second. “She’s run a brilliant race considering the conditions,” Scott said. “The ground was quick, and it was a fast track, so we were a bit up against it, but she performed admirably. Sir Gino was simply awesome today, and it was a phenomenal training performance.”
Nico de Boinville praised the extensive work behind Sir Gino’s recovery. “It’s been such a long, hard road. All credit to the staff at Seven Barrows and everyone at Donnington Grove Vets. They pulled him back from the brink. We’re so lucky to have this horse back on track after 364 days.”
Sir Gino’s stunning return reinforces his status as one of the sport’s brightest stars. With unbeaten form and a thrilling display of speed and composure, he has set the stage for a potentially landmark season.
Kempton Park race result 26 December delivered a moment to remember as Sir Gino returned from a long absence to dominate the Grade One Christmas Hurdle in authoritative fashion.
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