Where To Bet on Desert Orchid Chase

Race Details:

Date: 2026.12.27
Grade: 2
Open To: Horses Aged Four Years and Older
Track: Turf
Length: 3,219 Metres
Location: United Kingdom


The Desert Orchid Chase is an annual event that takes place every December at Kempton Park.

The race, first run in December 2006, is named in memory of Desert Orchid, who won the King George VI Chase four times between 1986 and 1990. Desert Orchid is regarded as one of the most iconic steeplechasers in British racing history.



Desert Orchid's ashes were scattered over the Kempton course ahead of the inaugural running, adding historic and emotional significance to the race.

The Desert Orchid Chase is a Grade 2 National Hunt steeplechase open to horses aged four years and older. It is contested over a 3,219 metre turf distance and features 12 fences, placing emphasis on speed, rhythm, and accurate jumping around Kempton's sharp layout.


Most Recent Winner - 2025:

Thistle Ask
Jockey: Harry Skelton
Trainer: Dan Skelton

Thistle Ask delivered a composed and authoritative performance to win the 2025 Desert Orchid Chase, travelling strongly throughout before asserting after the final fence. Harry Skelton judged the pace perfectly, allowing the gelding to use his natural cruising speed to decisive effect. The victory marked another high profile success for the Skelton team and confirmed Thistle Ask as a leading two mile chaser.


Notable Past Winners:

Several high class chasers have won the Desert Orchid Chase more than once. Voy Por Ustedes claimed back to back victories in 2006 and 2007, while Special Tiara recorded wins in 2014 and 2016.

The oldest horses to win the race were Sprinter Sacre and Special Tiara at nine years of age, while Voy Por Ustedes remains the youngest winner, capturing the race as a five year old in 2006.


Race Characteristics:

Kempton Park is widely regarded as a speed track, favouring fluent jumpers who can maintain a strong tempo throughout. The Desert Orchid Chase often rewards horses with proven two mile form and previous experience around right handed circuits.

Because of its timing and conditions, the race is frequently used as a key stepping stone toward major spring targets, including the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.


Key Takeaways:

The Desert Orchid Chase is a prestigious Grade 2 winter chase run at Kempton Park

Speed, jumping accuracy, and tactical positioning are critical for success

The race honours one of the greatest chasers in British racing history

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