Chepstow Racecard - Saturday 14th October

SAT 14 October T R I B U T E AC T

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WELCOME

Welcome to Chepstow Racecourse for the second day of the Unibet Jump Season Opener. This meeting has really cemented itself as the start of the winter campaign and we hope all our customers have an enjoyable afternoon with us.

Today always attracts a top-quality line-up of trainer, horses and jockeys with the feature races being the £75,000 Wasdell Group Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle and the £50,000 Native River Handicap Chase. There is more than £400,000 of prize money on offer across the two days of the fixture.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank today’s race sponsors Unibet, Champion Hats, Weatherbys, the Wasdell Group, the family of John Ayers, Mark Jones and Garth Broom from Brocade Racing.

Today you can also take advantage of meeting darts legends Keith Deller and John Lowe and play them in our ‘beat the pro’ challenge in the Bonanza Boy Marquee between 1pm and 4pm.

The Rugby World Cup – we can confirm we will be showing the quarter final around the site today on selected TV’s. Oasis Tribute band – Definitely Mightbe will be hitting the stage at 17.45pm in the Bonanza Boy Marquee.

I know its early to talk about the festive season, however we are hosting a Christmas Party night on Friday 15th December so please contact jdrinkwater@arenaracingcompany.co.uk for more information.

If you are interested in taking hospitality at any of our fixtures, please email Jodi Boreham (jboreham@chepstow-racecourse.co.uk).

If you would you like to arrange/discuss an event in 2024? We cater for all so please email Jo (jdrinkwater@arenaracingcompany.co.uk) If you would like information on how you become a race sponsor please email lknox@chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

Lindsay Knox General Manager CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE is part of Arena Racing Company which includes; Bath, Brighton, Doncaster, Ffos Las, Fontwell Park, Great Yarmouth, Hereford, Lingfield Park, Newcastle, Royal Windsor, Sedgefield, Southwell, Uttoxeter, Wolverhampton and Worcester racecourses.

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The Chepstow Racecourse Executive would like to thank our sponsors and wish them an enjoyable and prosperous day’s racing.

SATURDAY 14 OCTOBER (UNDER THE RULES OF RACING)

STEWARDS OF THE MEETING CHIEF STEWARD GUY UPTON STEWARDS’ PANEL CHAIR SIMON ELIOT LYNDSAY ALLAN, SOPHIE CANDY, KELLY O’BOYLE STARTERS WILLIAM JORDAN SOPHIA UPTON JUDGE GUY LEWIS CLERK OF THE SCALES ROBERT CUTHBERT VETERINARY SURGEONS BOBBY MCEWEN SCOTT MILNES CARYS REYNOLDS MEDICAL OFFICERS DR PHILIP PRITCHARD DR CHRIS REESE DR CHRIS REYNOLDS

NURSE SARAH GODFREY EQUINE WELFARE AND INTEGRITY OFFICERS VINCE McKEVITT STUART SHILSTON KELLY McSORLEY CHRISTOPHER MAIDEN COMMENTATOR MIKE CATTERMOLE BETTING RING MANAGER DARREN TILBURY

RACE CONDITIONS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE 47

REGIONAL DIRECTOR SOUTH WEST PHIL BELL GENERAL MANAGER LINDSAY KNOX CLERK OF THE COURSE LIBBY O’FLAHERTY HEAD GROUNDSMAN RON MASON SAFEGUARDING LEAD LIBBY O’FLAHERTY

HOW TO READ

YOUR RACECARD

birthplace of horse if not Great Britain

form guide previous performances /=new season -=new year horse’s Bold type shows all weather form No. of C=course winner saddlecloth days D=distance winner age number since CD=course & distance winner last BF=beaten favourite ran 9 RAZ DE MAREE (FR) (32) UP0-F22 13

colour graphic

Br

horse’s name

Ch g Shaanmer (IRE) - Diyala III (FR) James J. Swan Mme Michele Juhen-Cypres

weight st-lbs

11-1

James Bowen (5) Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up in this 12 months ago and back to form when second in Cork National in November. Sound effort over hurdles since and no surprise to see him figure again despite the fact he’s 13.

TFR HHHHI BHA140

KEY

Owner

Breeding

Breeder Br

Jockey

Trainer

Sponsor S

Star Ratings Explained

Each horse has been given a star rating, these are defined below:

HHIII Unlikely to win but not totally without hope.

HHHHH Selected to win the race.

HIIII Can be given little or no chance.

HHHHI Good chance of being placed.

HHHII By no means out of the reckoning but at least one or two hold stronger claims

OFFICIAL BHA RATINGS EXPLAINED The BHA Handicappers allot ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicappers to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability. The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the Handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions.

A horse rated 100, for example, would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring any penalties or allowances). The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in nonhandicaps races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed. Any subsequently published change to a rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating. For novice steeple chasers, the latest hurdle race rating may be shown until such time as the Handicappers allot a separate steeple chase rating.

Such ratings are prefixed by the letter h.

You must be 18 or over to place a bet You may be asked to provide proof of your age when placing a bet If you cannot produce this your bet will not be accepted

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FIRST RACE 1.55 ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 11YDS) FOR JUVENILE THREE YRS OLD

THE CHAMPION HATS JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £9000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3756, 2nd £1878, 3rd £939, 4th £470.

(Penalty Value £4901.40)

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs LIARI TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Pipe (4 wins from 15 runners, 27%) runs STRAY BULLET LONGEST TRAVELLER: CASTELFORT trained by J Williams, South Molton, 95 miles.

RACE SUMMARY

Fairly useful on the Flat in France, LIARI is one to note on hurdling debut having joined a yard which has won this race twice in the last 3 renewals. The son of Cracksman is taken to add to Paul Nicholls’tally in the contest, with Balboa setting a clear standard of those who have previously run over hurdles. Whispering Royal is also considered for last year’s winning trainer.

1-2-3: 1.LIARI (FR) 2.BALBOA 3.WHISPERING ROYAL (IRE) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Br

Jockey

PLAY SMARTER

Trainer

Sponsor

no

horse

st lb

1

BALBOA (GB) (14) 32

11-0

B g Mondialiste (IRE) - Reachforthestars (IRE) Mrs Kate Kenyon Br Elwick Stud

Harry Reed Milton Harris, Warminster Bresbet

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair maiden on Flat, up to 1 3/4m, who stepped up considerably on his first effort over hurdles when runner-up in juvenile at Market Rasen (16.6f, good) 2 weeks ago. Respected with more still to offer in this sphere. TFRHHHHI BHA110

2

CASTELFORT (FR) (-)

B g Castle du Berlais (FR) - Stellarmor (FR) Chasing Gold Racing Club Br E.A.R.L. Haras Du Mondant & J. Le Roux

11-0

David Noonan Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Culverhill Farm Racing

TIMEFORM VIEW Castle Du Berlais gelding. Half-brother to Mare Sol. Dam, lightly-raced maiden, half-sister to 17f-19f hurdle/chase winner Bal Celtique. Yard capable of readying a newcomer so he could go well first time up. TFRHHHII BHA-

3

CEEJAYBE (GB) (17) P

Ch g Free Eagle (IRE) - Marmande (IRE) Mr Chris Butler Br Mr & Mrs G. Middlebrook

11-0

Gavin Sheehan Jo Davis, East Garston Equissistant Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Well held first 2 starts on Flat and pulled up on hurdling debut at Newton Abbot in June. Back on the level, showed a bit more when mid-field sent handicapping last time, but he still looks to be up against it (tongue strap retained from Flat). TFRHHIII BHA-

4

CITY CYCLONE (GB) (22)

Ch g Cityscape - Dubai Cyclone (USA) Wayne Clifford & Ian Gosden Br Ladyswood Farm & Stud LLP

11-0

Lorcan Williams Tony Carroll, Cropthorne Byerley Stud (courtlands) Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to modest hurdler Sea The Sunset (2 1/4m winner). Fair maiden on Flat, TFRHHHII BHAstays 1 1/4m, but below his best on his last 2 starts. Rare hurdles debutant for his yard.

5

LIARI (FR) (179)

B g Cracksman - Lidiyana (FR) Neil Smith & Alfie Smith Br S.C.E.A. Haras de Son Altesse L’Aga Khan

11-0

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

TIMEFORM VIEW Ran to a fairly useful level in just 3 races on Flat in France for Jean-Claude Rouget, winning maiden at Toulouse (10.4f) in March. Noteworthy recruit to hurdling for powerful yard which have an excellent record in this contest. TFRHHHHH BHA-

6

STRAY BULLET (FR) (108)

Gr g Johnny Barnes (IRE) - Dinka (FR) Gillards Transport Ltd & John White Br M. Frederic Bragato & Mme Soraya Djerbou

11-0

Jack Tudor David Pipe, Wellington W & S Recycling

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Barrua (17f/2 1/4m winner). Fair winner on Flat in France for Simone Brogi, winning twice at up to 9.2f. One to consider as he makes stable/hurdling debut with tongue strap on first time. TFRHHHII BHA-

7

WHISPERING ROYAL (IRE) (67)

B g Gustav Klimt (IRE) - Wild Academy (IRE) CHELSEA THOROUGHBREDS - WHISPERING ROYAL Br R. Cody

11-0

Tom Cannon Alan King, Barbury Castle Oliver Brown

TIMEFORM VIEWHalf-brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Mont Royale (2m-21f winner) and fair hurdler Modulus (2m-2 1/2m winner). Fair winner on Flat, TFRHHHHI BHAshaping as if he would stay 1 1/2m, and he’s an interesting contender representing last year’s winning trainer of the race.

10

8

PARISH STAR (IRE) (135)

B f Parish Hall (IRE) - Star Street (IRE) Molly and Paul Willis Br J. S. Bolger

10-7

Lorcan Murtagh Nigel Hawke, Tiverton Junction 24 Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEWDam half-sister to useful hurdler (2m-2 1/2m winner) Via Galilei. Modest form at best in maidens/handicap up to 11.7f on Flat in Ireland. Makes hurdling debut on first run for yard after leaving J. S. Bolger.

TFRHHIII BHA-

WHAT AN ICON (GB) (127)

10-7

B f Sixties Icon - Inffiraaj (IRE) Mr N. Tucker Br Mike Channon Bloodstock Limited

James Davies Chris Down, Cullompton Woodwarm Stoves

TIMEFORM VIEW Modest maiden on Flat. After 8 months off, first run since leaving Mick Channon when well held in minor event at Bath in June. Difficult ask as she goes over hurdles.

TFRHHIII BHA2022: TUDDENHAM GREEN 3 11 0 Daryl Jacob 6-4 (Alan King) 5 ran Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 6. Tongue Strap worn by No. 3.

DECLARED RUNNERS 9

Probable S.P’s: 2-1 Liari (FR), 7-2 Whispering Royal (IRE), 9-2 Balboa (GB), 13-2 Stray Bullet (FR), 12-1 Castelfort (FR), 20-1 City Cyclone (GB), 28-1 Parish Star (IRE), 50-1 Ceejaybe (GB), 66-1 What An Icon (GB)

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

CCTV Please note that for security purposes there will be CCTV monitoring throughout the racecourse today.

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RACE ONE

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OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF THE UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE

His dam Native Mo was bought by a dairy farmer in Northern Ireland called Fred Mackey in 1997. She had an accident at home and was unable to race so he bred from her.

NATIVE

RIVER

She was covered by Indian River, (who won a Grade 3 chase at Auteuil for Guillaume Macaire) and they produced a chestnut foal on 4th May 2010.

He was sold in November of that year as a foal by Mackey at the Tattersalls Ireland November Sale, with John Dineen the purchaser at €6,000.

OWNER:

He made his point-to-point debut for Denis Ahern at Dromahane in March 2014 and was bought privately

by Tom Malone on the back of an eye-catching run when brought down at the final fence whilst staying on strongly under a patient ride.

Tom invited Garth and Anne Broome to take a look at him with a view to buying even though they were not too keen beforehand given his chestnut colour.

However, once they had seen him trot-up and display his catlike action and lovely temperament, let it sink in over a cup of tea they decided to buy him within half an hour.

They sent him to be trained by Colin Tizzard and he made his English debut in a bumper at Newton Abbot in October 2014 where he was a one-pace third and a little disappointing however three weeks later he won a maiden hurdle over 2& 3/4 miles at Stratford and followed up in 'The French Furze' at Newcastle. Stepped up into Grade 1 company for the first time in the Challow he was last of six but it was a personal best so far. Unfortunately, he then fell at Cheltenham in a Grade 2 hurdle when going well before dropping right back in trip and winning the Listed Novice Hurdle at Exeter over 2 miles. He finished his season by finishing midfield in the Albert Bartlett at the Festival.

He made his chasing debut at the Chepstow opening meeting in October 2015 where he was third before he went to Exeter and won. His next five races that season were in Graded company, a win at Newbury, third in the Kauto Star and Towton before a staying-on strongly second in The National Hunt Chase over 4 miles and then a first Grade 1 win at Aintree where Richard Johnson partnered him for the first time.

After a prep-run in the Yorkshire hurdle October 2016 he went straight to Newbury to win the Hennessy and then to Chepstow for The Welsh National winning off top weight. He then took in the Denman at Newbury before finishing 3 lengths third in the 2017 Gold Cup. He was then given a good break until February 2018 and his stall was laid out for the Gold Cup. He prepped by taking The Denman again before attempting to make-all in The Gold Cup to win by 4 lengths. He ran only three times in the 18/19 season placing in the Betfair Chase, The King George and the Gold Cup. In 19/20 he won The Many Clouds Chase at Aintree and The Denman at Newbury again for the third time (where he remained unbeaten over fences from 5 runs). He missed that year's Gold Cup due to a niggling injury and after a comeback run won The Cotswold Chase at Sandown in February 21 before another fourth place in The Gold Cup and a third in the Grade 1 at Aintree.

In December 2021 he had his final run at Chepstow in The Welsh National after which retired after having won 14 of his 32 starts finishing in the first four on 28 occasions and earning over £1.1million in prizemoney.

In all he won 11 times over fences for 4 different jockeys earned a career best official rating of 176.

He now has an active life residing at Tom Malone's farm only a few miles away from his owners Garth and Anne Broome.

He has been successfully competing in Retraining of Racehorse classes this summer and has qualified for all the major shows next year. He is also going to be going trailhunting and show jumping through this winter.

SECOND RACE 2.30 TWO MILES ABOUT SEVEN AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 7F 131YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE NATIVE RIVER HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £50000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £19875, 2nd £9935, 3rd £4970, 4th £2485, 5th £1240, 6th £620. (Penalty Value £26015)

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs SWITCH HITTER & THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (7 wins from 35 runners, 20%) runs HIDDEN HEROICS FANCY THAT: N Mulholland won this race in 2018 and 2021. The stable runs BRIEF TIMES today.

LONGEST TRAVELLER: CERTAINLY RED trained by L Richards, Chichester, 125 miles.

RACE SUMMARY

THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE was a good fourth off this mark in the Scottish Grand National at Ayr on his final start so gets the vote back down in class on return. The thriving Courtland is an obvious threat, with Tea Clipper another to consider having gone close in this last year off 4lb higher.

1-2-3: 1.THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE (IRE) 2.COURTLAND (IRE) 3.TEA CLIPPER (IRE) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Br

Jockey

Trainer

PLAY SMARTER

Sponsor

no

horse

age

st lb

1

STOLEN SILVER (FR) (212) 41/U2P0-

8

12-0

Gr g Lord du Sud (FR) - Change Partner (FR) Walters Plant Hire & Potter Group Br S.C. Snig Elevage

Sam Twiston-Davies Sam Thomas, Cardiff Potter Group

TIMEFORM VIEW Raced only 4 times last season, best effort when runner-up off this mark in premier handicap at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day. Modest efforts next 2 starts but has a good record fresh. TFRHHHII BHA150

2

THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE (IRE) (175) 6/3U604- C D 8 11-11

B g Shantou (USA) - Didinas (FR) McNeill Family Br James Dunne

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Ultima Business Solutions

TIMEFORM VIEW Won 4 chases as a novice though failed to score last season. However, ended the campaign with good fourth in Scottish Grand National at Ayr off this mark so player back down in class/trip if ready to go. TFRHHHHH BHA147

3

COURTLAND (IRE) (53) 6-11121

B g Court Cave (IRE) - Media View (IRE) Miss Jayne Brace & Mr Gwyn Brace Br Mrs Rosemary Ross

8

11-8

Sean Bowen Peter Bowen, Haverfordwest Peter and Karen Bowen Racing

TIMEFORM VIEWLike many from the yard he’s thrived this summer, completing a hat-trick before an excellent second in the Summer Plate at Market Rasen.

Resumed winning ways at Worcester 53 days ago, forging clear. Must be respected in current mood.

TFRHHHHI BHA144

4

EVA’S OSKAR (IRE) (182) 62164U- CD

Gr g Shirocco (GER) - Sardagna (FR) Sally & Richard Prince Br Mr & Mrs N. Faulks

9

11-5

Alan Johns Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Dragonbet, Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW Likeable chaser who has improved since the visor went on, scoring at Cheltenham in December.

Hampered and unseating at the twentieth in Grand National at Aintree final start. Can go well fresh. TFRHHHII BHA141

5

CERTAINLY RED (GB) (168) B11100- CD

Ch g Midnight Legend - Venetian Lass The Venetian Lad Partnership Br Mrs Lydia Richards

9

11-4

Marc Goldstein Lydia Richards, Chichester Lydia Richards Racing

TIMEFORM VIEW Reliable sort who completed a hat-trick over fences at Wincanton in February.

Only seventh in Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown final start but this less competitive.

TFRHHHII BHA140

6

FRENCH PARADOXE (FR) (210) F1/1F1P- D

B g Day Flight - Sculture (FR) Mick Fitzgerald Racing Club Br Mme Vsse Yves D’Armaille

8

11-3

Gavin Sheehan Oliver Signy, Lambourn Oliver Signy Racing Llp

TIMEFORM VIEW Improving chaser who added another win to his tally in 23f handicap at Newcastle. Shaped much better than the bare result in Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter final start and type to bounce back. TFRHHHII BHA139

7

TEA CLIPPER (IRE) (139) 23460-0 C D

B g Stowaway - A Plus Ma Puce (FR) Mr Jerry Hinds & Mr Ashley Head Br Cyril O’Hara

8

11-2

Stan Sheppard Tom Lacey, Woolhope Plusbac

TIMEFORM VIEW Struggled to fire in the spring but he went close in this on his return last year off 4lb higher so not taken lightly.

TFRHHHHI BHA138

14

8

BRIEF TIMES (IRE) (53) 3-P0113 D

B g Doyen (IRE) - Dali’s Theatre Ms S. Exell Br Ms T. Hassett

7

11-1

Bryan Carver Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

TIMEFORM VIEW Often let down by his jumping but has transformed by a step up to 3m this summer, making all at Southwell and Bangor. Good third at Worcester next time and can’t discount in current mood. TFRHHHII BHA137

9

SWITCH HITTER (IRE) (238) 1322/01- D

8

11-1

B g Scorpion (IRE) - Country Time (IRE) Hills of Ledbury Ltd Br Liam Norris

Bryony Frost Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

10

9 10-13

COEUR SEREIN (IRE) (104) 201P5-F D

B g Fame And Glory - Balvenie (IRE) Andy Ralph Br Seamus Kennedy

Jonjo O’Neill Jr. Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Wasdell Group

TIMEFORM VIEW Back to winning ways in a small field at Newbury in February but is becoming increasingly unreliable and poor efforts next 2 of 3 starts.

TFRHHIII BHA135

11

HIDDEN HEROICS (FR) (148) P1155-5 D

6 10-10

B g Coastal Path - Quine de Sivola (FR) Harry Skelton Mr Ian Lawrence Dan Skelton, Alcester Br Mr Mickael Fennessy The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire), Ladbrokes

TIMEFORM VIEW Scored at Exeter and Cheltenham on his first 2 starts over fences but failed to kick on since, well-held fifth of 11 in handicap chase at Aintree (25f, good, 9/1) final start.

TFRHHHII BHA132

12

EMIR SACREE (FR) (161) 31/P3P-P C

B g Network (GER) - Altesse Sacree (FR) Mr G. L. Porter Br Graham Porter & Henrietta Charlet

9

10-8

Nico de Boinville Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner in novice handicap chases in 2021-22. Pulled up 3 of next 4 starts, however, so leap of faith required.

TFRHHHII BHA130

13

MANOTHEPEOPLE (IRE) (175) 11/112P- CD

B g Mahler - Midnight Insanity (IRE) The FOB Racing Partnership 2 Br Thomas Norris

8

10-6

Connor Brace Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham Bresbet

TIMEFORM VIEW Went 2-2 over fences in C&D novice handicap in December and posted very good second of 3 in 23f Newbury handicap next time.

Stopped quickly in Scottish Grand National final start but remains with potential as a chaser.

TFRHHHHI BHA128

14

STRICTLYADANCER (IRE) (637) 5111P4/- D

B g Yeats (IRE) - Feale Dancer (IRE) Encore Racing Br John Hayes

9

10-2

Jack Tudor Christian Williams, Bridgend NAF

TIMEFORM VIEWPatiently-ridden chaser who completed the hat-trick with something to spare at Haydock. Run of good form came to a halt at Sandown but quickly bounced back when fourth at Kempton, albeit beaten over 13 lengths. Off 21 months and 2lb out of weights.

TFRHHIII BHA122 2022: PEREGRINE RUN (IRE) 12 12 0 Sam Ewing 15-2 (Peter Fahey) 7 ran DECLARED RUNNERS 14 Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2, 8. Visor, Tongue Strap worn by No. 4.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 7, 10, 11. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 2, 11.

Stewards Note: FRENCH PARADOXE: Following its run on 18/3/2023 it was reported that the horse did not stay.

HIDDEN HEROICS: Following its run on 19/5/2023 it was reported that the horse jumped right handed.

Probable S.P’s: 4-1 Courtland (IRE), 17-2 Threeunderthrufive (IRE), 11-1 Brief Times (IRE), Switch Hitter (IRE), 12-1 Tea Clipper (IRE), Manothepeople (IRE), 14-1 Stolen Silver (FR), 16-1 Certainly Red (GB), French Paradoxe (FR), 18-1 Hidden Heroics (FR), 22-1 Emir Sacree (FR), 25-1 Strictlyadancer (IRE), 28-1 Eva’s Oskar (IRE), Coeur Serein (IRE)

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

15

RACE TWO

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner who made winning chase bow at Hereford (25.2f) on return last winter. Doubled his tally in a weak event at Wincanton when last seen in February. Remains relatively unexposed in this sphere. TFRHHHII BHA137

WELSH HORSE RACING AWARDS AT THE VALE RESORT, CARDIFF VALE

to book email: mhiggs@chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

HAP PY BI RTHDAY SUE !

THIRD RACE 3.10 TWO MILES ABOUT THREE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 3F 98YDS) FOR NOVICE FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUE NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (for The Robert Mottram Memorial Trophy) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £40000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £17432, 2nd £7156, 3rd £3580, 4th £1788, 5th £896. (Penalty Value £22780) A

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs KNAPPERS HILL TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (7 wins from 35 runners, 20%) runs UNEXPECTED PARTY LONGEST TRAVELLER: BELLA BLISS trained by J Mcconnell, Ireland.

RACE SUMMARY

Having won the Silver Trophy on this card 12 months ago, KNAPPERS HILL is fancied to make the perfect start over the larger obstacles for Paul Nicholls at the expense of Unexpected Party, who is yet to get his head in front over fences but is established as useful in this sphere and was consistent in defeat last season. Collectors Item looks best of the rest.

1-2-3: 1.KNAPPERS HILL (IRE) 2.UNEXPECTED PARTY (FR) 3.COLLECTORS ITEM (IRE) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Jockey

Br

Trainer

PLAY SMARTER

Sponsor

no

horse

age

st lb

1

BOURBALI (FR) (168) 324242- CD

6

11-5

B g Sinndar (IRE) - Saintheze (FR) W Pope, E Legg, M Green & T Swaffield Br Mr Louis Lafitte & Mr Herve Barus

Brendan Powell Joe Tizzard, Sherborne Coral Racing Limited

2

6

TIMEFORM VIEW Big improver in 2021/22, winning 4 times. Consistent in defeat last season, finishing a creditable second at Sandown (19.8f, good to soft) when last seen in April (fourth that day has made a winning chase debut this term) but this is a tough ask on his first start over fences. TFRHHIII BHA127

COLLECTORS ITEM (IRE) (210) 2/15123- C

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Leading Lady Jackdaws Antiques Br R. McCarthy

11-5

Jonjo O’Neill Jr. Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Wasdell Group

TIMEFORM VIEWMade a promising start to his hurdle career, winning novices at this track (2m) and Kempton (3m) before narrowly denied when stepped up to Grade 2 TFRHHHII BHA132 company at Haydock (3m). Similar form on handicap debut when third at Uttoxeter back in March and could do better now chasing.

3

KNAPPERS HILL (IRE) (168) 114231- CD

7

11-5

B g Valirann (FR) - Brogella (IRE) Chris & Giles Barber and Mr P J Vogt Br Ronnie O’Neill

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

4

8

TIMEFORM VIEWEnhanced good strike-rate when taking the Grade 2 Elite from Sceau Royal at Wincanton last November and back to winning ways when last seen in Select Hurdle at Sandown (21.5f, good to soft) in April. Looks a novice chaser to follow this season, so warrants considerable respect. TFRHHHHH BHA153

UNEXPECTED PARTY (FR) (175) 232353- D

Gr g Martaline - Reform Act (USA) O’Reilly MacLennan Tynan Carthy Shanahan Br Mr & Mrs Gilles Forien

11-5

Harry Skelton Dan Skelton, Alcester Ashford Stud

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive hurdler last season who has performed well in this sphere without winning, including when third to Stage Star in Golden Millar at Cheltenham (19.8f) in March, merely passing beaten horses. Matched that form at Ayr (20.5f, good) a month later and sets a useful standard. TFRHHHHI BHA142

5

BELLA BLISS (IRE) (16) 600112

B m Getaway (GER) - Izabelle Amie (IRE) Claire Wylie Br William Mangan

6 10-12

Sean Bowen John McConnell, Ireland

TIMEFORM VIEWWon first 2 starts over fences (finished alone on second occasion) and remained in good heart when runner-up in rated novice at Clonmel (24f, heavy) 16 days ago. Upped in grade and likely she will come up short in this field.

TFRHHIII BHA120 2022: SEBASTOPOL (IRE) 8 11 5 Stan Sheppard 2-9 (Tom Lacey) 2 ran Tongue Strap worn by No. 4, 5.

DECLARED RUNNERS 5

Probable S.P’s: 8-11 Knappers Hill (IRE), 3-1 Unexpected Party (FR), 10-1 Collectors Item (IRE), 16-1 Bourbali (FR), Bella Bliss (IRE)

18

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DRESS CODE Please note that racegoers wearing vests, football or rugby shirts, ripped jeans, shorts or trainers will not be admitted to the Premier Enclosure.

Patrons in all enclosures are reminded that the removal of shirts is not allowed. For Hospitality, Annual Box Holders and Restaurant Customers, the dress code is no ripped jeans, trainers or t-shirts. Polo shirts are acceptable.

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19

RACE THREE

Racegoers are not permitted to bring dogs into any enclosure. In car parks dogs must be kept on leads at all times. During hot weather it should be remembered that Police and RSPCA officials reserve the right to force entry into any vehicle to release an animal if suffering.

Len in His Race reading days circa 1960’s

LEGEND OF A HORSE RACING LIFETIME………

AFTER ALL HE WAS MY FATHER! Alfred Louis Lefebve, always known as LEN, was born in Tottenham on November 18, 1898. His was not a household name unlike that of his brother-in-law jockey TIM HAMEY, (KOKO, 1926 CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP & FORBRA, 1932 GRAND NATIONAL), but he certainly left his mark on British horse racing.

He had lied about his age, and headed across the Channel to fight for his country, aged 16, in WORLD WAR ONE, but never related the atrocities he witnessed following my birth in 1945.

When peace resumed, he headed for LEWES to become apprenticed to trainer LEN CUNDELL, and sharing stable duties with “local boy” TOWSER GOSDEN, father of JOHN. First mount over jumps was WUFFY - owned by his father - as a 21-year-old at FOLKESTONE in 1919. He “won” because it was a WALK-OVER! Remarkably, his second ride, on the same horse, was also a winner at WINDSOR, in a MATCH race!

He partnered about 150 jumping winners, including 20 during a winter visit to CALCUTTA..

Other memorable riding achievements included:# Leading over the first seven fences on ARDEEN in the 1925 GRAND NATIONAL, before exiting at the CANAL TURN. # Riding in the first races ever staged at both FONTWELL (May 21, 1924) (second of four runners), and TAUNTON (September 21, 1927). # Then there was the 703-1 hat-trick at long-closed CHELMSFORD (GALLEYWOOD), twice beating GOSDEN, senior. # Finally as a jockey, what about this? September 27, 1922, he partnered steeplechaser DAISY CUTTER to TWO WINS in an hour at the old ISLE of WIGHT racetrack.

I’m not sure exactly when he first became a licensed trainer, on CHELTENHAM racecourse (possibly 1933), but he regularly sent out a small number of winners, for the next six years. However,that second career came to a halt thanks to ADOLF HITLER. WW II over, he resumed training, but it was a struggle, and he handed in his licence in 1949, embarking on his third career, as a racereader for RACEFORM, the official formbook, covering meetings in the MIDLANDS / WEST COUNTRY. That third profession spanned 30 years, and he died in retirement, aged 82, in 1981.

The reason for this “LOOKBACK”? Well, his final winner as a trainer came HERE 75 years ago this week, and the formbook reproduction (see below) of the race shows how his horse CHALGROVE WAY “got up on the line” to pip “MISTER CHEPSTOW”, and deny the KNIGHT-TO-BE an odds-on treble that Saturday afternoon!

Not many “mugged” GORDON during his famous career, but SAM WRAGG (brother of the legendary HARRY) did so that day!

WILLIAM LEFEBVE, 58 years’ “media” involvement in the SPORT OF KINGS. THANK YOU, FATHER.

FOURTH RACE 3.40 TWO MILES ABOUT THREE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 3F 98YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE JOHN AYRES MEMORIAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £40000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £15900, 2nd £7948, 3rd £3976, 4th £1988, 5th £992, 6th £496. (Penalty Value £20812)

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs FLIC OU VOYOU TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): G Cromwell (8 wins from 51 runners, 16%) runs FINAL ORDERS FANCY THAT: P Nicholls won this race in 2016, 2017 and 2022. The stable runs FLIC OU VOYOU today.

LONGEST TRAVELLER: FINAL ORDERS trained by G Cromwell, Ireland.

RACE SUMMARY

DATSALRIGHTGINO landed the Champions Novices’ Chase at Ayr on his final outing last term and he may not have reached his limit as a chaser yet, so he takes preference over Final Orders. Elixir de Nutz and Al Dancer should both pose a threat in what looks a typically strong renewal.

1-2-3: 1.DATSALRIGHTGINO (GER) 2.FINAL ORDERS 3.ELIXIR DE NUTZ (FR) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Jockey

Br

Trainer

PLAY SMARTER

Sponsor

no

horse

age

st lb

1

FINAL ORDERS (GB) (45) 115F-01

7

12-0

B g Camelot - Trapeze C. M. D. Syndicate Br Hascombe and Valiant Studs

Keith Donoghue Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

TIMEFORM VIEW Improved to win 15-runner handicap hurdle (4/9) at Bellewstown (20.4f, good) 45 days ago, comfortably. Switches from hurdles to chase. One to consider.

TFRHHHHI BHA150

2

DATSALRIGHTGINO (GER) (175) 3422P1- C

B g It’s Gino (GER) - Delightful Sofie (GER) The GD Partnership Br Stall 5-Stars

7 11-13

Gavin Sheehan Jamie Snowden, Lambourn Betvictor

TIMEFORM VIEWCourse winner. Career best when winning 6-runner Future Champions Novices’ Chase at Ayr (20.5f, good, 8/1) 175 days ago by 1 3/4 lengths from Thunder Rock, staying on well. Likeable type who may improve further over fences, so worth chancing to make a winning return. TFRHHHHH BHA149

3

AL DANCER (FR) (183) 4532/10-

Gr g Al Namix (FR) - Steel Dancer (FR) Walters Plant Hire Ltd Br S.C.E.A. de Maulepaire et al

10 11-12

Charlie Deutsch Sam Thomas, Cardiff

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart chaser who returned as good as ever when landing the Grand Sefton at Aintree in November.

Let down by jumping in Topham on only subsequent outing but can’t be ruled out returning from 6 months off.

TFRHHHII BHA148

4

ELIXIR DE NUTZ (FR) (175) 021202-

9 11-11

Gr g Al Namix (FR) - Nutz (FR) Mr Terry Warner Br Mr Tangi Saliou & Mme Jocelyne Ventrou

Brendan Powell Joe Tizzard, Sherborne Coral Racing Limited

5

9

TIMEFORM VIEW Boasts a good strike rate and upped his form again over fences last season, scoring at Wincanton in January.

TFRHHHHI BHA147 Good effort when last seen at Ayr and another solid showing is likely on return.

FLIC OU VOYOU (FR) (187) U4/151P- CD

11-3

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Hillflower (FR) Mr Colm Donlon Br Mme Celine Sirven-Gualde

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

6

8 10-10

TIMEFORM VIEWBack from 4 months off and enhanced his fine record at Wincanton with another victory in handicap over this trip in February.

Folded tamely next time but has a good record fresh and has scored over C&D before, so worthy of interest.

TFRHHHII BHA139

NOTHIN TO ASK (IRE) (169) 3/11P2F- CD

B g Ask - Nothin To Say (IRE) The FOB Racing Partnership 11 Br P. & D. Kavanagh

Liam Harrison Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham Bresbet

TIMEFORM VIEWFair novice hurdler last season who made a positive start over fences last term, scoring over C&D in October and following up at Doncaster (19.1f) a month later. Fell her when last seen 169 days ago but looks the type to do better again this season. TFRHHHII BHA132

7

OUR JET (IRE) (173) 10/2136-

Ch g Jet Away - She’s Bitting (IRE) Mr Clarke Ohrstrom Br Mr Martin Joe Molloy

7

10-8

Harry Skelton Dan Skelton, Alcester

TIMEFORM VIEW Opened account over fences in handicap at Leicester (20.1f) in December. Ended the campaign with TFRHHHII BHA130 a Modest run but still lightly raced in this sphere and should be tuned up for this return.

22

8

NOCTE VOLATUS (GB) (189) U/26042- D

8

10-7

B g Midnight Legend - Aeronautica (IRE) Lady Cobham and Dauntsey Park Br Lady Cobham & Tor Sturgis

Stan Sheppard Tom Lacey, Woolhope Plusbac

9

7

TIMEFORM VIEW Three-time 2m4f chase winner last term and was in good nick without winning last term.

Stable likely to have him tuned up for this return, so he’s one to consider.

TFRHHHII BHA129

GARINCHA (IRE) (172) 14F141- D

B g Ask - Mandy Winger Mr R Flower and Dajam Br Mr K. D. Cotter

10-3

Adam Wedge Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke

TIMEFORM VIEW Well placed to win 3 handicaps last season, sticking to his task very well for the latest of them at Ffos Las 172 days ago. Should give another good account if he’s tuned up. TFRHHHII BHA125

10

WALK IN CLOVER (IRE) (22) 2311-42

B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Bridgequarter Girl (IRE) The Blind Squirrels Br Kevin Neville

6

10-2

Tristan Durrell (5) Dan Skelton, Alcester Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful this spring in handicap chases at Cheltenham (Grade 2) and Southwell.

Solid efforts both outings since returning from a break and should be on the premises again. TFRHHHII BHA121 DECLARED RUNNERS 10 2022: FLIC OU VOYOU (FR) 8 10 4 Harry Cobden 9-4 (Paul Nicholls) 4 ran Tongue Strap worn by No. 3, 4, 6, 7, 8. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 4, 5, 9.

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 7.

Stewards Note: FLIC OU VOYOU: Following its run on 10/4/2023 it was reported that the horse would prefer faster ground.

OUR JET: Following its run on 24/4/2023 it was reported that the horse did not stay the distance.

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

REFUSAL OF ADMISSION The Management reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone and to remove any person from the course without assigning a reason for doing so. We do not accept responsibility for loss or damage to a person or their property. This is stated in our T&Cs, which may be obtained from the Racecourse Office.

23

RACE FOUR

Probable S.P’s: 11-2 Datsalrightgino (GER), 6-1 Elixir de Nutz (FR), 8-1 Al Dancer (FR), Garincha (IRE), 17-2 Final Orders (GB), 9-1 Nocte Volatus (GB), 10-1 Walk In Clover (IRE), 11-1 Flic Ou Voyou (FR), 12-1 Nothin To Ask (IRE), 14-1 Our Jet (IRE)

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THE SILVER TROPHY History of the Wasdell Group Silver Trophy

The Wasdell Group Silver Trophy, a two and a half mile handicap hurdle, was first run in 1989 and has been sponsored in recent years by the Wasdell Group.

One of its first winners was the best; in 1990 Bradbury Star was on his way to becoming a top class all-rounder, combining classiness, versatility and resilience. He ran 58 times, winning 18 at all distances from two to three miles. Amazingly, he won eight times at Cheltenham.

Most of Silver Trophy runners go on to thrive at longer distances and the 2007 winner was a prime example; that was Don’t Push It, who three years later gave A P McCoy his only winning ride in the Grand National.

Horses placed in the Silver Trophy have also been worth following in staying chases.

Fourth in 2011 was The Giant Bolster, who would finish second, third and fourth in three Cheltenham Gold Cups. Vieux Lion Rouge, third in 2014, won 13 times in all and became a real Aintree specialist. In fourth that year was Regal Encore, successful six times later including four at Ascot.

Court Minstrel was a 40/1 success for South Wales trainer Evan Williams in 2015, and he became the only dual winner of the race when scoring again two years later. The form of the latter race turned out to be excellent. Six of the first eight home won again before long.

Tea Clipper took the 2020 Silver Trophy in convincing style, finishing six lengths ahead of the previous year’s winner Flash The Steel. He was placed at both of the next two years’ Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals. In October 2021 returned to Chepstow to take the valuable Robert Mottram Trophy.

The Silver Trophy form of 2021 (won by the Philip Hobbs trained Orbys Legend) continues to hold good; five of the first eight in the latest running won races within three months.

The 2022 renewal went to the Paul Nicholls trained Knappers Hill, who loves Chepstow. The gelding won a bumper at the track on his racecourse debut in 2020 and the following year took a novices’ hurdle at the course – all three of his Chepstow victories have been at the Unibet Jump Season Opener fixture.

THE LAST 10 YEARS WINNERS OF THE SILVER TROPHY HANDICAP HURDLE Year Horse Trainer Jockey

2022 2021

Knappers Hill Orbys Legend

P F Nicholls Philip Hobbs

H Cobden Tom O’Brien

2020

Tea Clipper

Tom Lacey

Jonathan Burke

2019 2018

Flash The Steel Garo De Juilley

Dan Skelton Sophie Leech

Harry Skelton Paddy Brennan

2017

Court Minstrel

Evan Williams

Mitchell Bastyan

2016 2015

Ballyoptic Court Minstrel

Nigel Twiston-Davies Evan Williams

Ryan Hatch Paul Moloney

2014

Shelford

Dan Skelton

Harry Skelton

2013 2012

Shammick Boy Lamb or Cod

Victor Dartnall Philip Hobbs

Jack Doyle James Best

Meet Martin Tedham, CEO of the Wasdell Group – Sponsors of the Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle Martin Tedham can remember the day he became hooked on horse racing because it was around the time he was trying to wean himself off cigarettes.

Tedham is the chief executive of Wasdell Group, sponsors of the £75,000 Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle, the feature race on Day Two of the Unibet Jump Season Opener.

Martin is a huge racing fan as well as racehorse owner. He can tell you exactly when the sport really got its hooks into him because it was 15 years ago when he was trying to give up smoking.

“I have a good friend up in Yorkshire called Steve Ryan who owns a few horses,” says Martin.

“He took me to a few sales and I was just watching the horses in awe, and he said to me, ‘Why don’t you buy one?’ I didn’t know anything about horses!

“This grey horse just came in; it went around and came back to us. I decided, I’ll buy this one.

It was great horse; it was called High Cake.

“I was told later the reason the horse came back to me was, that I had just stopped smoking at the time and I was eating a lot of Polo mints and it could smell the Polos on us.

“Well, I bought that horse and gave it to Richard Fahey to train. His first words to me were, ‘This is the horse with the bad legs! What did your vet say? Has he checked the horse?’

“I had no idea but that horse went to Musselburgh and ran in the first race. It was 33/1 and it romped in! I put £100 on it, so who needs a vet!”

Things have moved on since then and these days Martin’s connection with winners is based on more than a packet of mints.

Since 2019, the Wasdell Group have been the main sponsors of Jonjo O’Neil Racing at Jackdaws Castle in the Cotswolds, where Martin owns a string of horses including Tedham, Wasdell Dundalk and Zabeel Champion. His horse Sky Pirate (photographed) won at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021.

But his sponsorship interests also extend to Chepstow, where he has sponsored the Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle since 2020. He has just agreed to support the race for another three years.

“The great thing is that Chepstow is very local for me,” says Martin, whose packaging company operate in the pharmaceutical industry.

“I have found there to be a lot of real racing people at the course. I am Scottish, of course, but I have a soft spot for the Welsh and it is always a great time at the races.

“This is the start of the jump season, the weather is changing, the colour of the leaves are changing, and the atmosphere and anticipation is certainly building. The trainers need wet weather for the jumps and hopefully it will arrive in time.

“I am hoping to have a runner that day, but that is up to the trainer! We’ll have to see. It is up to Jonjo and the horses and he will let me know, that’s how it is!”

But the Wasdell Group’s decision to lend their name to the feature race of the Jump Season Opener – a huge part of the Big Welsh Racing Weekend – is not just about a sentimental attachment to racing.

For Martin, there are hard-headed business reasons to sponsor the race, too.

“We do a lot of veterinary products which are sold all over the world for horses and other animals.

“We also have one factory in Ireland, one in Dundalk, one in Newcastle, Northampton, Burnley and Swindon. If you get blood pressure tablets, Viagra or penicillin, you might be getting it from us, we send all over the world.

“Racing is a nice fit for that and a lot of people who work for me love the horses and gamble on them. So, the big thing for me is the employees in the company love the horses.

“They are always asking for any tickets on a Saturday or on the phone asking if the horses have a chance this week. So, it works really well.”

FIFTH RACE 4.15 TWO MILES ABOUT THREE AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 3F 100YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS

THE WASDELL GROUP SILVER TROPHY HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £75000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £29813, 2nd £14903, 3rd £7455, 4th £3728, 5th £1860, 6th £930. (Penalty Value £39022.50)

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs LALLYGAG & SONIGINO TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): G Elliott (11 wins from 57 runners, 19%) runs TRONADOR LONGEST TRAVELLERS: TRONADOR trained by G Elliott & SIGN FROM ABOVE trained by P Fahy - both Ireland.

RACE SUMMARY

A race typically packed full of interesting sorts. COLONIAL EMPIRE progressed well last season and is still relatively lightly raced in handicaps, especially at this trip, so he earns the vote from the foot of the weights for a yard that sent out a winner last weekend. Benassi can go on improving now upped in trip, while others to consider are Sonigino and Anyharminasking.

1-2-3: 1.COLONIAL EMPIRE 2.BENASSI (IRE) 3.SONIGINO (FR) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Jockey

Br

PLAY SMARTER

Trainer

Sponsor

no

horse

age

st lb

1

WATCH THE WEATHER (GB) (70) 2000-14 D

7

12-0

B g Kayf Tara - Tinker’s Burrow Sean Connors Br Mrs Judy Wilson

Keith Donoghue R. P. Cody, Ireland

TIMEFORM VIEW Proved better than ever on the back of a breathing op when landing a gamble in clear-cut style at Tipperary in July. Ran at least as well in defeat from a much higher mark at Galway since. TFRHHHII BHA136

2

SONIGINO (FR) (183) 5/11013- C

6 11-13

B g It’s Gino (GER) - Soniador (FR) Sir A Ferguson G Mason J Hales & L Hales Br Mr M. Contignon & Mrs N. Contignon

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

3

9 11-12

TIMEFORM VIEWProved a different proposition back from wind surgery last season, making it 3 wins in 4 starts when just clinging on at Huntingdon (19.5f) in February.

TFRHHHHI BHA135 Signed of the campaign with an excellent third in a premier event at Aintree and should win more handicaps this term.

MOLLY OLLYS WISHES (GB) (183) 135200-

B m Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - September Moon Tristan Durrell (5) Mr Dean Pugh Dan Skelton, Alcester Br K. D. & D. K. Pugh The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire), Ladbrokes

TIMEFORM VIEWAdmirable mare who was right back on song to defy a penalty at Wetherby on her return last season. No match for the up-and-coming Theatre Glory at Warwick in February and struggled to get competitive in big festival handicaps on her final 2 starts. Mark has eased though, and she’s capable fresh.

TFRHHHII BHA134

4

GRAND ROI (FR) (15) 000-535

B g Spanish Moon (USA) - Ultra d’Anjou (FR) Mr Gary Allsopp Br Gildas Vaillant

7 11-12

Lilly Pinchin (3) James Owen, Newmarket Allsopp & Allsopp

TIMEFORM VIEW Modest on his second stint chasing this season, including for current yard, and needs a revival back over hurdles.

TFRHHHII BHA134

5

LALLYGAG (GER) (178) 112133- D

6 11-11

B g It’s Gino (GER) - Laviola (GER) Mr D. G. Staddon Br Stall 5-Stars

Freddie Gingell (7) Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

6

6 11-11

TIMEFORM VIEWWon maiden/novice events at Exeter on first 2 starts over hurdles and back to winning ways at Taunton in December. Bit disappointing in listed company at former course in February but resumed progress when third on his handicap debut at Cheltenham (20.2f) on final outing, albeit well placed. TFRHHHII BHA133

ANYHARMINASKING (IRE) (309) 211/634-

B g Getaway (GER) - Collen Beag (IRE) Mrs Gay Smith Br James A. Slattery

Jonjo O’Neill Jr. Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Wasdell Group, Ashford Stud

TIMEFORM VIEWBeat Constitution Hill in a point. Won his first 2 starts in handicaps at the beginning of last year and showed improved form when third at Huntingdon (15.8f) in December, despite hanging left. Not at home in a sprint finish at Cheltenham on final outing, so the step up to 2 1/2m looks a good move. TFRHHHHI BHA133

7

TWINJETS (IRE) (173) 6112P1-

B g Jet Away - Shenamar (IRE) Mr C. W. Rodgers Br Pat Morrissey

6 11-10

Jonathan Burke Milton Harris, Warminster Bresbet

TIMEFORM VIEWDual bumper winner who resumed his progress after a 7-week break when brushing off a double penalty in 7-runner novice hurdle at Kempton (21f, heavy) in April, well on top finish. Has plenty about him physically so could improve further this season. TFRHHHII BHA132

28

8

BLOW YOUR WAD (IRE) (182) 4/21610- D

5 11-10

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Molly’s Mate (IRE) Mr Jerry Hinds & Mr Ashley Head Br Minch Bloodstock

Stan Sheppard Tom Lacey, Woolhope Plusbac

9

7 11-10

TIMEFORM VIEWUseful in bumpers without looking totally straightforward and resumed his progress over hurdles in no uncertain terms when winning a Newbury handicap (18.9f) in March, the combination of a tongue tie/breathing op working the oracle. Faced a stiff task back up in grade at Aintree on final outing. TFRHHHII BHA132

TRONADOR (IRE) (52) P00/00-3

Ch g Lope de Vega (IRE) - Autumn Leaves (FR) Mr M. Wasylocha Br B. Sangster & Freynestown Stud

Jack Kennedy Gordon Elliott, Ireland Gordon Elliott

10

6

TIMEFORM VIEW Ran much better than for a while over hurdles when third at Ballinrobe (16.8f) in July and best excused below-par effort on the Flat last time. Not dismissed for top Irish yard. TFRHHHII BHA132

BOOMBAWN (IRE) (148) 12620-1

11-8

B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Well Clad (IRE) Harry Skelton Bullen-Smith & Faulks Dan Skelton, Alcester Br Mr Rory O’Toole The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire), Ladbrokes

TIMEFORM VIEWLargely progressive sort who did well to come from rear into a quickening pace to win 7-runner handicap at Aintree (20f) in May. Remains unexposed at this trip, but it’s worth noting his best efforts so far have come on a sounder surface, so probably wouldn’t want too much rain.

TFRHHHII BHA130

11

SIGN FROM ABOVE (IRE) (28) 46-331

5

B g Sea The Stars (IRE) - Martine’s Spirit (IRE) Ms Bernadette Leigh Br Nuala Lynch

11-7

Mark Walsh Peter Fahey, Ireland

TIMEFORM VIEWProgressive on the Flat this year and confirmed previous promise in this sphere when landing a 17-runner maiden at Navan (20f) 4 weeks ago. Opening mark no gimme but dangerous to rule out.

TFRHHHII BHA129

12

AMERICAN SNIPER (IRE) (173) 32P263- C

5

11-5

B g Malinas (GER) - Mountain Leap (IRE) Mr Peter W. Garnsworthy Br George Doyle

Jack Tudor David Pipe, Wellington W & S Recycling

13

6

TIMEFORM VIEWShowed a good attitude when winning first 2 completed starts over hurdles and just touched off on handicap bow at Taunton (19f) in January. Couldn’t quite repeat that form thereafter and others look better treated on his seasonal return.

TFRHHIII BHA127

UNCLE BERT (GB) (17) 2241P-1

B g Pether’s Moon (IRE) - Azza (FR) James & Jean Potter Ltd Br James & Jean Potter

11-3

Sam Twiston-Davies Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Potter Group

TIMEFORM VIEW Rangy gelding who made the most of a good opportunity to get off the mark over hurdles at Warwick (2m) in March before facing a stiff task up appreciably in grade at Aintree. Hit with a 9lb rise for landing a Perth handicap by 12 lengths on his reappearance but remains low mileage. TFRHHHII BHA125

BENASSI (IRE) (188) F3/3121-

6

11-2

B g Westerner - Kylebeg Krystle (IRE) The Mighty Men Br Patrick Molloy

Sean Bowen Olly Murphy, Wilmcote McCoy Contractors

15

6 10-13

TIMEFORM VIEW Irish point recruit who had a good first season over hurdles, winning 2 of his 4 starts, including on handicap debut at Ffos Las (15.8f) in April. Sort to go on improving this term, especially now upped in trip. TFRHHHHI BHA124

PYRAMID PLACE (IRE) (42) 4-51313

B g Authorized (IRE) - Attima PP & R Syndicate Br Kingsley Park Ltd

Bradley Harris (5) Milton Harris, Warminster Bresbet

TIMEFORM VIEWProved better than ever when scoring in the mud at Cartmel in July. Bounced back from a miserable effort on the Flat when third at Newton Abbot 6 weeks ago, though is probably high enough in the weights now, especially for a race of this nature. TFRHHIII BHA121

16

GALAHAD THREEPWOOD (GB) (178) 24U1F0- D

6

10-7

B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Tesary The Megsons Br Peter Winkworth

Kielan Woods Ben Pauling, Naunton Fitzdares

17

5

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful winner on the Flat for Mick Channon who opened his account over hurdles in a 19.4f Doncaster handicap in March.

Fell heavily at Warwick next time and might have been amiss to back out of things so swiftly at Cheltenham on final outing. TFRHHHII BHA115

ALWAYS BUSY (IRE) (221) 26016P-

B g Westerner - Davids Jewel (IRE) Mr G. A. Moore Br Mr Tom Coughlan

10-6

Nick Scholfield Christian Williams, Bridgend NAF

TIMEFORM VIEWLeft his previous form well behind when taking 17-runner novice hurdle at Warwick (2m, soft) in November, readily. However, struggled to repeat that effort both starts since, pulling up on handicap debut at Sandown in March. Others more persuasive.

TFRHHIII BHA114

18

COLONIAL EMPIRE (GB) (235) 221161-

6

10-5

B g Zoffany (IRE) - Susan Stroman Alan Johns Mr S. Grys & Mr M. O’Boyle Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Br J. Dance Dragonbet, Hercules Direct Marketing Ltd, Designation Limited

TIMEFORM VIEWProgressive last season, winning 3 times, including at Taunton (16.5f) on final outing when he showed an impressive turn of foot to settle matters early in the straight. Reappears from a 5lb higher mark in a deeper race, but is still relatively lightly raced in handicaps, especially at this trip.

TFRHHHHH BHA113

29

RACE FIVE

14

2022: KNAPPERS HILL (IRE) 6 11 10 Harry Cobden 16-5 (Paul Nicholls) 10 ran DECLARED RUNNERS 18 Hood worn by No. 15. Blinkers worn by No. 4. Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2, 3, 8.

Stewards Note: SONIGINO: Following its run on 14/4/2023 it was reported that the horse was badly hampered.

Probable S.P’s: 6-1 Sonigino (FR), 15-2 Benassi (IRE), 17-2 Uncle Bert (GB), 12-1 Boombawn (IRE), Sign From Above (IRE), 14-1 Lallygag (GER), Twinjets (IRE), 16-1 Blow Your Wad (IRE), 18-1 Anyharminasking (IRE), Tronador (IRE), 20-1 Colonial Empire (GB), 25-1 Molly Ollys Wishes (GB),28-1 Watch The Weather (GB), Grand Roi (FR), 40-1 American Sniper (IRE), Pyramid Place (IRE), Galahad Threepwood (GB), 66-1 Always Busy (IRE)

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Afadil

Raceday preview from Weatherbys Nine horses will face the starter for race six on today’s card, the Paul Ferguson’s Jumpers To Follow 4-Y-O Hurdle, a limited handicap which was formerly known as the ‘Free Handicap’. This is the ninth year of Weatherbys’ sponsorship of the race and the seventh which has carried the Jumpers To Follow title.

Paul Nicholls has won the race three times during the past seven years and he runs Afadil this afternoon.

Paul Nicholls has won the race three times during the past seven years.

The French-import won his first two starts for the champion trainer and following his eighth placing in the Boodles at Cheltenham, chased home stable-mate Blueking d’Oroux (held an entry for this race at the five-day stage) in a competitive event at Ascot, before beating older horses in a handicap at Ayr’s Scottish Grand National meeting.

On the back of a wind-operation and with conditions to suit, the son of Camelot looks sure to go well under Harry Cobden and should be high-up on any shortlist.

Zestful heads the weights for Martin Keighley and Sean Bowen, with the Postponed filly twice successful over WEATHERBYS RACEDAY PREVIEW

hurdles last term. She was last seen finishing second over an extended 2m7f at Market Rasen in May, so will likely find this test much more examining pace wise.

Stuart Edmunds’ Chaos Control is another who drops in distance, having run well over 2m4f at Uttoxeter in late-August. He is one who has fitness on side and actually contested the Grade 1 Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle at Aintree’s Grand National fixture. A winner on good ground at Market Rasen in February, he has come down 3lbs since entering handicap company at Warwick in May. Despereaux represents Jane Williams and finished in front of Chaos Control when third in another Weatherbys-sponsored contest, Huntingdon’s Chatteris Fen Juvenile Hurdle, back in January.

Twice a winner, the son of Great Pretender has raced exclusively on right-handed tracks since running out at the final flight (ducked to his right) at Ffos Las and he finished a long way behind Afadil at Ascot.

Still relatively unexposed, he likely has plenty more to offer, although it will be interesting to see how he handles this left-handed course, if last season (post-Ffos Las) was indeed by design.

Planet Legend Others who have been in action recently include Jilaijone, who ran in France last month for David Pipe, the Irish-raider New Year Honours and Faded Fantasy. The former was a winner on debut for the Pipe stable, at Fontwell last December. He also shaped well when narrowly denied at Taunton in late-March, when he actually finished 2¾ lengths ahead of Faded Fantasy, when runner-up to the promising Spartan Army. Also beaten just a neck at Clairefontaine on reappearance, he looks capable of going well for a stable who have been among the winners already this month.

Christian Williams’ Faded Fantasy went on to win at Southwell in June, although the son of Make Believe has to race from 7lbs out of the handicap here. He is another who comes back in trip, having run over 2m4f at Worcester last month, in a valuable series final.

New Year Honours is a rare runner at the track for trainer Gordon Elliott, who also saddles Tronador in the Silver Trophy. Winner of a Lingfield handicap when trained by Ralph Beckett and owned by Qatar Racing, she ran behind some useful juveniles last winter and got off the mark at Punchestown in June. Better ground seems to suit this Nathaniel filly, who wasn’t beaten far in a mares’ event at Bellewstown in August, before she took her chance in a WEATHERBYS RACEDAY PREVIEW

New Year Honours is a rare runner at the track for trainer Gordon Elliott.

Listed handicap at Listowel’s Harvest Festival.

Planet Legend is another two-time hurdle winner, who likes to race up with the speed and handles decent ground well. He again wears cheekpieces (has worn them since his third start on the Flat, when trained

by James Ferguson), whilst the field is completed by Shared, who represents the Harry Derham stable.

Nephew and former assistant to Paul Nicholls, Derham has his horses in good form at present and this son of Almanzor won on soft ground at Wetherby and good ground at Doncaster, when he showed a fine attitude to prevail. He was, however, beaten 4 lengths by Afadil in a Listed event at Musselburgh and was again a long way behind him at the Cheltenham Festival. In his favour, he is 7lbs better off at the weights for that Musselburgh clash, so there is every chance that he can close the gap somewhat.

SIXTH RACE 4.50 ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 11YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD

THE PAUL FERGUSON’S JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 4-Y-O HURDLE RACE (A LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £25000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £9938, 2nd £4968, 3rd £2485, 4th £1243, 5th £620, 6th £310. (Penalty Value £13007.50) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs AFADIL TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): G Elliott (11 wins from 57 runners, 19%) runs NEW YEAR HONOURS FANCY THAT: P Nicholls won this race in 2016, 2018 and 2020. The stable runs AFADIL today.

LONGEST TRAVELLER: NEW YEAR HONOURS trained by G Elliott, Ireland.

RACE SUMMARY

AFADIL was an impressive winner at Ayr on his final outing last season and perhaps retains most potential in this field, so combined with the yard’s fine record in the race, gets the nod over Zestful, who has taken really well to hurdling and could well have more to offer. Jilaijone went close in France last time and is another to consider.

1-2-3: 1.AFADIL (FR) 2.ZESTFUL 3.JILAIJONE (FR) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Br

PLAY SMARTER

Jockey

Trainer

Sponsor

no

horse

st lb

1

ZESTFUL (GB) (155) 112-2 D

11-12

B f Postponed (IRE) - Heart’s Content (IRE) Martin Keighley Racing Partnership 16 Br Godolphin

Sean Bowen Martin Keighley, Cheltenham FBC Manby Bowdler

TIMEFORM VIEWSurpassed Flat form when winning first 2 starts in this sphere prior to going close in a listed contest at Cheltenham. Tanked along when second at Market Rasen on her handicap debut in May and looks open to even more improvement now dropping back to the minimum trip. TFRHHHHI BHA132

2

AFADIL (FR) (176) 116021- D

11-8

B g Camelot - Afsheen (FR) Mr P. J. Vogt Br S.A. Aga Khan

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful on first 2 outings for this yard before proving a class apart when readily winning 15-runner handicap hurdle at Ayr (16f, good) on his final start last season. Looks a useful hurdler in the making and sets the standard on his seasonal return. TFRHHHHH BHA128

3

SHARED (GB) (169) 15103- D

11-1

B g Almanzor (FR) - Between Us Mr Colm Donlon Br Cheveley Park Stud Limited

Paul O’Brien Harry Derham, Newbury All Sport Insurance Services Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Won at Wetherby and Doncaster last season before finishing well to take third in a 9-runner C&D handicap on his final outing last season. Can’t be ruled out from unchanged mark. TFRHHHII BHA121

4

CHAOS CONTROL (IRE) (45) 616-033

11-0

B g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Va Pensiero (IRE) Ciaran Gethings Oakman Racing Club Stuart Edmunds, Leighton Buzzard Br Mr Declan Murphy Oakman Group PLC, Science Supplements

TIMEFORM VIEWFairly useful handicapper on Flat who struck at the third time of asking over hurdles in a Market Rasen juvenile. Coped with the longer trip rather than improving for it when third of 6 in handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (19.9f, good) 45 days ago and others are more persuasive on balance. TFRHHHII BHA120

5

NEW YEAR HONOURS (GB) (26) 00-1230 D

B f Nathaniel (IRE) - Coquette Noire (IRE) Mr Ray Stokes Br The Coquette Noire Partnership

10-12

Jack Kennedy Gordon Elliott, Ireland Gordon Elliott

TIMEFORM VIEW Off mark over hurdles at Punchestown in June but produced a shoddy round of jumping when thirteenth of 18 on handicap debut at Listowel (16f, soft) 26 days ago. Others more persuasive. TFRHHHII BHA118

6

JILAIJONE (FR) (33) 32452-2

10-12

B g Walzertakt (GER) - Alauda (FR) Mr Samuel Sutton Br Pierre de Maleissye Melun

Jack Tudor David Pipe, Wellington Phillips Sutton Associates Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEWFair ex-French hurdler who made a winning start for his new yard in 18f juvenile at Fontwell and produced mainly solid efforts in defeat subsequently.

Travelled like a well-treated when a close second at Clairefontaine (17.9f, soft) 33 days ago and is much respected with fitness on his side, TFRHHHHI BHA118

7

PLANET LEGEND (IRE) (204) U61F16- D

Ch g Galileo (IRE) - Zut Alors (IRE) Mark Hough Br Knocktoran Stud

10-12

Charlie Hammond Dr Richard Newland, Droitwich Coulthursts Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEWWinner at Huntingdon and Kelso last term, taking advantage of a soft lead when scoring in decisive fashion on the second occasion.

TFRHHHII BHA118 Failed to give his running switched to a handicap when last seen and he’ll likely need a couple of these to falter.

36

8

DESPEREAUX (FR) (195) r1310- D

B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Rouvraie (FR) Chasing Gold Racing Club Br Mr Francois-Marie Cottin

10-10

David Noonan Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Culverhill Farm Racing

TIMEFORM VIEWOff the mark at Huntingdon on his second start before defying a penalty at Taunton in March. Opening mark proved stiff when down the field at Ascot on final outing last season, though, and he’ll likely need further respite to prove competitive in this type of contest. TFRHHHII BHA116

9

FADED FANTASY (IRE) (15) 53-21P0

B g Make Believe - Miss Dela (IRE) Sue Howell Br Stonepark Farms Ltd

10-6

Nick Scholfield Christian Williams, Bridgend NAF

TIMEFORM VIEWFair maiden on the Flat for Ger Lyons and made the most of a good opportunity with in 12-runner maiden hurdle at Southwell TFRHHIII BHA105 (20.4f, good) in June. Little show in handicaps since, though, and he’ll need plenty more from out of the weights DECLARED RUNNERS 9 2022: MOTHILL (IRE) 4 10 10 Tom Scudamore 9-1 (Neil Mulholland) 9 ran Hood worn by No. 1. Tongue Strap worn by No. 5, 6. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 3, 4, 7.

Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 2.

Stewards Note: PLANET LEGEND: Following its run on 24/3/2023 it was reported that the horse ran flat.

Probable S.P’s: 5-2 Afadil (FR), 9-2 Zestful (GB), 7-1 Jilaijone (FR), 8-1 Chaos Control (IRE), 17-2 Shared (GB), 11-1 New Year Honours (GB), 16-1 Planet Legend (IRE), Despereaux (FR), 50-1 Faded Fantasy (IRE)

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

FLAGS

RACE SIX

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RED AND WHITE CHECK - Doctor required.

ORANGE - Veterinary required.

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PAUL NICHOLLS Paul Nicholls has been one of the country’s top National Hunt trainers for almost 25 years. He has saddled over 3,600 winners and won the trainers’ championship 14 times.

It’s often forgotten that he started out as a jockey and rode more than a hundred winners in the 1980s. One of his biggest was on the David Baronstrained Playschool in the 1987 Coral Welsh Grand National at Chepstow. A broken leg curtailed Nicholls’ riding career, but training had always been the long-term aim and he worked as an assistant to Barons for two years, during which time the stable won the Aintree Grand National with Seagram.

In October 1991 Nicholls began training on his own account at Ditcheat in Somerset with just eight horses. He rose steadily through the ranks and his arrival in the major league came with three successes at the 1999 Cheltenham Festival, including the Gold Cup with See More Business.

Since then the winners have never stopped flowing. He’s won four Cheltenham Gold Cups, a Grand National and 13 King George VI Chases at Kempton. Four of his greatest horses were: Kauto Star, the best chaser since Desert Orchid and won two Gold Cups and five King George VIs at Kempton.

Denman, who won a Gold Cup beating Kauto Star, and was second in three others.

Big Buck’s, who won 18 consecutive races and was the Stayers’ Hurdle champion four times in a row.

Master Minded, an exceptional two-mile chaser who won 13 of his 19 races for the yard, including two Queen Mother Champion Chases.

Nicholls has been responsible for 262 winners at Chepstow, more than anyone else. He makes a point of targeting the Unibet Jump Season Opener each year as a launch pad for his younger horses to get their campaigns under way. In 2020 he trained eight winners at the two-day meeting. How many will there be this year?

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SEVENTH RACE 5.22 ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 11YDS) FOR FOUR AND FIVE YRS OLD

THE UNIBET OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) Total prize fund £8000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £3338, 2nd £1670, 3rd £834, 4th £418.

(Penalty Value £4356.80)

RACE STATS LEADING COURSE TRAINER (18-23): P Nicholls (61 wins from 233 runners, 26%) runs KAP BOY TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (7 wins from 35 runners, 20%) runs ALBIE LITTLEWOOD & DON OCCHETTI FANCY THAT: P Nicholls won this race in 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2021. The stable runs KAP BOY today.

LONGEST TRAVELLER: BRECHIN CASTLE trained by B Brookhouse, Newmarket, 195 miles.

RACE SUMMARY The betting will undoubtedly prove informative but newcomer KAP BOY appeals as a likely type on debut for the all-conquering Nicholls’ camp and he earns the vote without the benefit of market clues. King of Tara has an experience edge over most and he’s feared, with Brechin Castle and Albie Littlewood another couple to note.

1-2-3: 1.KAP BOY (FR) 2.KING OF TARA 3.BRECHIN CASTLE (IRE) KEY colours

Owner

Breeding

Breeder

Jockey

Br

Trainer

PLAY SMARTER

Sponsor

no

horse

age

st lb

1

BRECHIN CASTLE (IRE) (237) 1-

5

11-2

B g Shantou (USA) - Glorious Twelfth (IRE) Mr R. S. Brookhouse Br Mary M. Brennan

Jack Quinlan B F Brookhouse, Newmarket Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW£165,000 5-y-o, Shantou gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler Wynn House, stays 3m. Successful sole outing in Irish points (Feb 19) and he’s one to note on Rules debut for in-form yard. (2-13 in this sphere in recent seasons). TFRHHHHI BHA-

2

DON OCCHETTI (IRE) (-)

5

11-2

B g Presenting - Baileys Partytime Tristan Durrell (5) Mr Nick Skelton Dan Skelton, Alcester Br Mrs D. Cashman The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire), Ladbrokes

TIMEFORM VIEWPresenting gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler The Street. Dam, ran once on Flat, half-sister to high-class hurdler (2m-17f winner) TFRHHHII BHACountrywide Flame. Appeals on paper, so interesting what the market makes of him with yard also saddling Albie Littlewood.

3

MISTYMAL (IRE) (181) 541-

B g Malinas (GER) - Amazon Mist (IRE) Mr J Durston & Mr N Harris Br Denis Ahern

5

11-2

Alan Johns Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Dragonbet

TIMEFORM VIEW Malinas gelding. Dam, modest maiden hurdler, half-sister to fairly useful hurdle winner/useful chaser (stayed 3 1/4m) Rath An Iuir. Successful on last of 3 starts in Irish points (Apr 16). Yard wouldn’t be a regular source of winners in this sphere. TFRHHHII BHA-

4

ALBIE LITTLEWOOD (IRE) (-)

4

11-1

B g Ocovango - Talktothetail (IRE) Harry Skelton Mr Nick Skelton Dan Skelton, Alcester Br Mrs Noelle King The Air Ambulance Service (Warwickshire & Northamptonshire), Ladbrokes

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to smart hurdler Roksana and bumper winner/useful hurdler Robin Roe. Dam (c104/h104) TFRHHHHI BHAbumper/3m chase winner. Makes obvious appeal on paper for leading yard and he’s of interest.

5

GETUPTHEYARD (IRE) (198) 0-

4

11-1

B g Getaway (GER) - Harbour Mistress (IRE) On Business Br Parkville Stud

David Noonan Nigel Hawke, Tiverton Junction 24 Ltd

6

4

TIMEFORM VIEW Getaway gelding. Easy to back but shaped as if the experience would bring him on when seventh of 9 in a Taunton bumper on debut back in March.

TFRHHIII BHA-

KAP BOY (FR) (-)

11-1

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Bumble (FR) Mrs Diana L. Whateley Br Mr H. Lair, Mr J. Lair & Mr F. Champion

Harry Cobden Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Morson Group

7

4

TIMEFORM VIEW €160,000 3-y-o, Kapgarde gelding. Half-brother to 4 winners, including fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser in France Santa Bamba and French hurdler/chaser Pentacle. Top yard boast 25% strike rate with bumper runners in last 5 seasons and of obvious interest on debut. TFRHHHHH BHA-

KING OF TARA (GB) (146) 2

B g Kayf Tara - Hot Rhythm Brogan Group Br Mr P. P. Symonds

11-1

Jonjo O’Neill Jr. Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Wasdell Group

TIMEFORM VIEW €85,000 3-y-o, Kayf Tara gelding. Promising debut effort when runner-up in a Stratford bumper (16.3f) back in May and that experience won’t have been wasted on him ahead of this and he’s respected. TFRHHHHI BHA-

42

2022: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

DECLARED RUNNERS 7

Probable S.P’s: 9-4 Kap Boy (FR), 7-2 King of Tara (GB), 9-2 Brechin Castle (IRE), 11-2 Albie Littlewood (IRE), 10-1 Don Occhetti (IRE), 14-1 Mistymal (IRE), 50-1 Getuptheyard (IRE)

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

THE HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD The Horserace Betting Levy Board prize fund schemes provide for the estimated inclusion of £ 439,896 in ratecard and incremental prize money at this racecourse from September to December 2023.

CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE SHUTTLE Saturday 14th October Chepstow Racecourse

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RACE SEVEN

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RACE CONDITIONS First Race 1.55 - THE CHAMPION HATS JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4901 to the winning horse The second to receive £2258, the third £1128 and the fourth £565. for juvenile three yrs old, which have not won more than three hurdle races. Enter by noon, October 9th and pay £45 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Weights: 11st each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 7lb Of 2 hurdle races 10lb Of 3 hurdle races 12lb. Champion Hats have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. 10 entries at £45. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3756; Second £1878; Third £939; Fourth £470. (Penalty Value £4901.40) SEE PAGE 10 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 2.30 - THE NATIVE RIVER HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £26015 to the winning horse The second to receive £11960, the third £5980, the fourth £2990, the fifth £1495 and the sixth £745. for four yrs old and upwards. £250 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £50 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £200 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Penalties, after October 7th, 2023, for each steeple chase won 7lb.

Brocade Racing have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In Addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if, up to and including the Saturday prior to closing, it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France or, having run in two such races, has been placed in the first four on each occasion, in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 19 entries, 2 at £50 and 17 at £250. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £19875; Second £9935; Third £4970; Fourth £2485; Fifth £1240; Sixth £620. (Penalty Value £26015) SEE PAGE 14 FOR THIS RACE. Third Race 3.10 - THE HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUE NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (for The Robert Mottram Memorial Trophy) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £22780 to the winning horse The second to receive £8548, the third £4280, the fourth £2132 and the fifth £1072. for novice four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, October 9th and pay £200 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 9lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 5lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 2 weight-for-age or Class 1 handicap steeple chase 3lb Of a Class 1 weight-for-age steeple chase 5lb. The Robert Mottram Memorial Trophy will be presented to the winning owner to be held until September 1st next year, when it is to be returned to the Chepstow Executive. Chepstow have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. 10 entries at £200. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money.

Winner £17432; Second £7156; Third £3580; Fourth £1788; Fifth £896. (Penalty Value £22780) A SEE PAGE 18 FOR THIS RACE. Fourth Race 3.40 - THE JOHN AYRES MEMORIAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £20812 to the winning horse The second to receive £9568, the third £4784, the fourth £2392, the fifth £1196 and the sixth £596. for four yrs old and upwards. £200 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £40 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £160 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Penalties, after October 7th, 2023, for each steeple chase won 7lb. The Family and Friends of John Ayres have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Winning Owner. In addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if, up to and including the Saturday prior to closing, it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France or, having run in two such races, has been placed in the first four on each occasion, in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 15 entries, 3 at £40 and 12 at £200. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £15900; Second £7948; Third £3976; Fourth £1988; Fifth £992; Sixth £496. (Penalty Value £20812) SEE PAGE 22 FOR THIS RACE. Fifth Race 4.15 - THE WASDELL GROUP SILVER TROPHY HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £39022 to the winning horse The second to receive £17940, the third £8970, the fourth £4485, the fifth £2242 and the sixth £1117. for four yrs old and upwards. £375 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £75 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £300 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Penalties, after October 7th, 2023, for each hurdle race won 7lb. Wasdell Group have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 21 entries, 3 at £75 and 18 at £375. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money.

Winner £29813; Second £14903; Third £7455; Fourth £3728; Fifth £1860; Sixth £930. (Penalty Value £39022.50) SEE PAGE 28 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 4.50 - THE PAUL FERGUSON’S JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 4-Y-O HURDLE RACE (A LIMITED HANDICAP) (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £13007 to the winning horse The second to receive £5980, the third £2990, the fourth £1495, the fifth £747 and the sixth £372. for four yrs old only. £125 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £25 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £100 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Lowest weight 10st 6lb; Highest weight 11st 12lb Penalties, after October 7th, 2023, for each hurdle race won 6lb. Weatherbys has kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In Addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 17 entries, 7 at £25 and 10 at £125. - Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £9938; Second £4968; Third £2485; Fourth £1243; Fifth £620; Sixth £310. (Penalty Value £13007.50) Weights raised 6lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 36 FOR THIS RACE. Seventh Race 5.22 - THE UNIBET OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 4) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4356 to the winning horse The second to receive £2007, the third £1003 and the fourth £502. for four and five yrs old only, which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat races or French AQPS Flat races. Enter by noon, October 9th and pay £40 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. October 12th. Weights: 4-y-o 11st 1lb; 5-y-o 11st 2lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a race 7lb Of 2 races 10lb. The Riders’ Allowances under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code may be claimed in this race.

Unibet have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning Owner. In addition a cash prize will be given to the person who is responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. ELIMINATION PROCEDURE - SEE the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code). 17 entries at £40. Closed October 9th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3338; Second £1670; Third £834; Fourth £418.

(Penalty Value £4356.80) SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE.

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