Staying chasers are invariably amongst the most popular horses in the racing world. The reasons for this appeal are manifold. Firstly, the sheer challenge of the races in which they compete, i.e. marathon trips with up to 30 fences standing between themselves and glory, can only draw admiration. Secondly, these stars tend to have the longest careers of racehorses, returning to the track to display their determination and talent time and time again. As the years pass, such runners find a place within the hearts of racing fans as they compete in the most high-profile contests of the jumps season.
All of the above is enough to elevate a runner to the top of the public loved list, but if we also throw a human element into the tale, an irresistible narrative forms. Step forward Kitty’s Light, who, in his trainer’s time of need, has lived up to his name in illuminating the lives of the Williams family.
Illness Strikes Williams Young Daughter
March 2023 brought the news that no family wants to hear when Christian Williams’ six-year-old daughter Betsy was diagnosed with Leukemia. The ensuing chemotherapy treatment saw Williams shave his head in support of Betsy, as all in the racing world hoped for the best.
Over a year later, the news surrounding Betsy is encouraging, with the youngster doing well with her treatment and reportedly in fine form. Fingers crossed, the family are well on their way to emerging from the dark days of the past 12 months.
Star Chaser Keeps the Spirits Up
Betsy’s predicament certainly puts horse racing into perspective, but with the sport representing the family’s livelihood, any winner at the track could only have helped brighten the mood when they needed it most. Over the past 12 months, no horse has done more for the Williams operation than the tough and talented Kitty’s Light.
Without a win in two years, Kitty’s Light rediscovered his mojo in spectacular style around the time Betsy became ill. Not done there, the gelding defied an eight-pound rise in the handicap to claim the Scottish Grand National a little over a month after Betsy’s diagnosis, before following up only seven days later in the valuable bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown – providing a triple salvo of joy for the Welsh trainer’s family.
Back to Defend his bet365 Crown
The 2023/24 campaign hasn’t been so bright for Kitty’s Light, with the eight-year-old winless in his first six starts this season. However, there have been definite signs of improvement in recent outings – notably a fine fifth in the Grand National last time out.
That Aintree effort suggested that Kitty’s Light may soon be re-entering the Winners’ Enclosure, and Saturday sees the much-loved star return to the scene of his most recent success. 19 rivals lie in wait in the 2024 bet365 Gold Cup, but none will carry the level of public support as the defending champ.