Chepstow Racecard - Wednesday 27th December

T’is the season for the

OFFICIAL RACEDAY PROGRAMME | £4

WIN UP TO

£25,000

FOR FREE

ON CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL DAY.

RACING SUPER SERIES: 18+. UK & ROI Customers only. Online and In-Shop with Connect. Max 1 online entry per customer per game. Correctly select a horse to Place in each of the selected races to win a share of cash prize-pot. Racing rules apply. Restrictions + T&Cs apply. PLEASE BET RESPONSIBLY begambleaware.org -Need Help?

Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133

WELCOME Welco me to C he p s tow Racecourse for the 2023 Coral Welsh National We are looking forward to a Lindsay Knox wonderful afternoon of racing.

General Manager We have 8 action packed races for you all to enjoy.

A big thank you to our sponsors Coral who are supporting this prestigious day once again.

Coral have been fantastic supporters of Chepstow and we hope to work with you all in years to come.

The Welsh National Anthem will be performed live before the big race by Shan Cothi. We are very grateful for her giving up her time free of charge in return for a £3,000 donation from the Reuben Foundation to her chosen charity.

Planning for 2024 is already taking place including two new race days! On the 1st April we are holding our first food and drink festival race day – A Taste of Wales and on the 8th June our One Night in Nashville race day, so bring your cowboy boots and hats, learn to line dance and ride the rodeo bull as well as enjoying a great evening of racing.

Live Nation are returning with headliners Hozier and Sir Tom Jones, tickets available via Ticketmaster.

After racing today we have the fabulous Dean Jones – Tribute act to Tom Jones performing in the Bonanza Boy Marquee.

Our fixture list and theme events for 2024 are all confirmed so please pick up a leaflet or head to the website for more details.

Do you follow us on social media? To keep up to date with everything at Chepstow Racecourse please find us on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter and Linkedin.

Thank you all for coming today and I hope you have a great afternoon with us and I look forward to welcoming you back on another occasion.

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

Would you like to arrange/discuss a non racing 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, have your company branding around site and on the TVs please email lknox@chepstow-racecourse.co.uk Finally, I would like to wish all of our customers a Happy and Healthy 2024.

I would like to welcome you all to the 51st year of our sponsorship of the Coral Welsh Grand National.

Simon Clare

Ladbrokes Coral I am very proud that Coral’s PR Director association with this historic horse race and Chepstow Racecourse is entering a sixth decade, making it one of the longest running sporting sponsorships in the world.

Whilst so many things in British racing have changed over the years, Coral’s sponsorship of the Welsh Grand National has been ever-present and long may it continue.

This sponsorship more than any other reflects Coral’s long-standing commitment to horse racing in general, a commitment which stepped up a gear over the last twelve months with the launch of the Coral Racing Club.

The Coral Racing Club is free-to-join for Coral customers and gives members the experience of racehorse ownership of ten, including the opportunity to be an owner for the day when the horses run and keep a share of any prize money won.

Last month we celebrated the first anniversary of the launch of the Coral Racing Club, and we now have 150,000 members signed up, so if you haven’t yet joined the Club then please do. In addition to following the fortunes of the Club’s racehorses, our members have the chance to win thousands of tickets and hospitality packages to race meetings throughout the year.

Have a great day and a Happy New Year

THE DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE WOULD LIKE TO THANK CORAL FOR THEIR LOYAL SUPPORT OF THE WELSH GRAND NATIONAL - ONE OF THE LONGEST SPONSORSHIP PARTNERSHIPS IN JUMP RACING.

THE CORAL WELSH NATIONAL MEETING

TUESDAY 27TH DECEMBER

(UNDER THE RULES OF RACING)

STEWARDS OF THE MEETING THOMAS EVETTS (CHIEF STEWARD) JOANNA HAWKINS (STEWARDS’ PANEL CHAIR) MILLY BERSEY, SOPHIE CANDY, ALI GALLIERS-PRATT, FERGUS SWEENEY

OFFICIALS STARTERS WILLIAM JORDAN SOPHIA UPTON CIARAN MCKEE JUDGE GUY LEWIS CLERK OF THE SCALES ROBERT CUTHBERT VETERINARY OFFICER KATHERINE BYAM-COOK VETERINARY SURGEONS BOBBY MCEWEN DAVID THOMPSON SCOTT MILNES MEDICAL OFFICERS Dr JOHN HEATHCOCK Dr CHRIS REESE Dr HEATHER CLARK Dr CHRIS REYNOLDS NURSE SARAH GODFREY

COMMENTATOR DAVID FITZGERALD BETTING RING MANAGERS WILL SHERWOOD GRANT NEWMAN GENERAL MANAGER LINDSAY KNOX REGIONAL DIRECTOR SOUTH WEST PHIL BELL CLERK OF THE COURSE LIBBY O’FLAHERTY HEAD GROUNDSMAN RON MASON EQUINE WELFARE AND INTEGRITY OFFICERS VINCE MCKEVITT MELANIE SHEPPARD MARTIN KNIGHT MEL BAKER SAFEGUARDING LEAD LIBBY O’FLAHERTY

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.

All copyright reserved by Chepstow Racecourse Limited

TRACKFACTS A left handed oval track, approximately two miles in circumference, with significant undulations, which joins the straight course five furlongs from home.

TOP COURSE TRAINERS

LEADING TRAINERS AT CHEPSTOW (2018-2023) WITH RUNNERS: P NICHOLLS (61 wins from 238 runners, 26%) runs LARGY POET (12.00), JACKPOT D’ATHOU (12.30), QUEL DESTIN (1.05), COMPLETE UNKNOWN and TRUCKERS LODGE (2.50), KAP BOY (3.55).

E WILLIAMS (28 wins from 266 runners, 11%) runs MINELLA BLUEWAY (12.00), FOLLOWANGO (12.30), WALKINTHEWOODS (3.25), LEECH (3.55).

F O’BRIEN (18 wins from 130 runners, 14%) runs CHECK THE SCORE (12.00), AUTONOMOUS CLOUD (2.50).

J O’NEILL (18 wins from 134 runners, 13%) runs BROUGHSHANE (12.00), RULER LEGEND (12.30), IRON BRIDGE (2.50).

V WILLIAMS (18 wins from 116 runners, 16%) runs TANGANYIKA (1.40), CHAMBARD and DIDERO VALLIS (2.50).

TRAINERS IN FORM

MOST WINS IN THE LAST 14 DAYS: V WILLIAMS (12 wins from 31 runners, 39%) runners listed above.

P NICHOLLS (9 wins from 43 runners, 21%) runners listed above.

F O’BRIEN (8 wins from 26 runners, 31%) runners listed above.

A HONEYBALL (6 wins from 26 runners, 23%) runs JASMIN DE GRUGY and SOLSTICE SAINT (12.30).

N TWISTON-DAVIES (5 wins from 28 runners, 18%) runs PRIVATE PIKE (12.00), UNCLE BERT (1.40).

TOP COURSE JOCKEYS

LEADING JOCKEYS AT CHEPSTOW (2018-2023) WITH RIDES: H COBDEN (41 wins from 167 rides, 25%) rides LARGY POET (12.00), JACKPOT D’ATHOU (12.30), QUEL DESTIN (1.05), BURDETT ROAD (2.10), COMPLETE UNKNOWN (2.50), KAP BOY (3.55).

A WEDGE (21 wins from 194 rides, 11%) rides MINELLA BLUEWAY (12.00), THE BIG BREAKAWAY (2.50), WALKINTHEWOODS (3.25).

J O’NEILL JR (18 wins from 113 rides, 16%) rides BROUGHSHANE (12.00), RULER LEGEND (12.30), HARSH (2.10), IRON BRIDGE (2.50).

P BRENNAN (16 wins from 81 rides, 20%) rides CHECK THE SCORE (12.00), AUTONOMOUS CLOUD (2.50).

G SHEEHAN (14 wins from 71 rides, 20%) rides SUPER SURVIVOR (2.50), WITNESS PROTECTION (3.25).

JOCKEYS IN FORM

MOST WINS IN THE LAST 14 DAYS: H COBDEN (9 wins from 45 rides, 20%) rides listed above.

C DEUTSCH (9 wins from 23 rides, 39%) rides MAHLAND (12.00), CAPTAIN WALLACE (12.30), TANGANYIKA (1.40), DIDERO VALLIS (2.50).

J BOWEN (7 wins from 39 rides, 18%) rides ANOTHER LORD (12.00), ITO DITTO (12.30), MARIO DE PAIL (1.40), SEAHOUSES (2.10).

S TWISTON-DAVIES (6 wins from 31 rides, 19%) rides PRIVATE PIKE (12.00), SOLSTICE SAINT (12.30), GOOD RISK AT ALL (1.05), UNCLE BERT (1.40), THE GALLOPING BEAR (2.50), NOT AVAILABLE (3.25), ROCKING MAN (3.55).

DANNY MCMENAMIN (5 wins from 24 rides, 21%) rides CHARLIE UBERALLES (2.50).

NOTE: All statistics are up to and including 25th December.

2 17

4

8

7

12

1

11 3

14 16 13

FINDING YOUR WAY AROUND Grandstand & Paddock Bar

1

The View Restaurant

5

2

Premier Foyer

6 Coral Suites

3

The 1926 Bar

7

4

Owners & Trainers

8 Premier Boxes 11-19

Premier Boxes 1-10

9 Winning Post Box

Native River Annual Members Lounge

Free wifi: _Racecourse_WiFi

chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

9

15 18

MAIN ENTRANCE

19

6 5

11 Dream Alliance Suite

17 Pre-Parade Ring

12 Piercefield Suite

18 Racecourse Office

13 Parade Ring

19 Syndicate Lounge

14 Winners Enclosure & Podium 15 Car Park

Accessible Viewing Accessible Parking

16 Finishing Line

chepstowracecourse

Chepstow_Racing

ChepstowRacecourse

TODAY’S TIPS The win selection for each race is denoted by the

symbol.

RACE ONE

WIN: CHECK THE SCORE

DANGER: BROUGHSHANE

RACE TWO

WIN: JACKPOT D’ATHOU

DANGER: IMPERIAL SAINT

RACE THREE

WIN: GOOD RISK AT ALL

DANGER: FIRST FLOW

RACE FOUR

WIN: TANGANYIKA

DANGER: CLASSIC CONCORDE

RACE FIVE

WIN: BURDETT ROAD

DANGER: HARSH

RACE SIX

WIN: IWILLDOIT

DANGER: SUPER SURVIVOR

RACE SEVEN

WIN: SHOWBUSINESS

DANGER: AGGAGIO

RACE EIGHT

WIN: : ROCKING MAN

DANGER: KAP BOY

The Fergal O’Brien stable can do little wrong at present and this looks like an ideal opportunity for CHECK THE SCORE to open his hurdles account following a taking bumper success on his debut under Rules at Warwick in April.

The form of that contest may not have worked out in the interim but, as a point-to-point winner, he should relish going up in distance on his hurdles bow. A costly sort who ran out early on his Rules debut at Ascot last November, Broughshane must enter calculations, along with Largy Poet and Minella Blueway.

JACKPOT D’ATHOU is clearly held in high regard by connections, having been entered in the Grade 1 at Aintree on Boxing Day before being reverted to this much easier contest. A winner over C&D on his hurdles bow last month, the son of Doctor Dino can defy a 7lb penalty, with talented mare Followango looking best placed to chase him home after an easy success in a Ffos Las bumper. Imperial Saint and Ito Ditto are capable of being in the shake-up as well.

GOOD RISK AT ALL is the least exposed of these and that should be an advantage as he looks to bounce back from a disappointing display at Cheltenham, where he failed to stay over three miles. A winner over close to this distance on his penultimate outing at Carlisle, Sam Thomas’ charge should be at home in these conditions. The veteran First Flow showed plenty of his old zest when runner-up at Ascot on his return and he looks to be a big threat to the selection, along with former Grade 1 winner here Quel Destin.

TANGANYIKA stepped forward from his return to action when scoring at Bangor earlier in the month and a 4lb rise might not be enough to stop the five-year-old from progressing further. Classic Concorde arrives in the form of his life, having won four of his last five starts, and the 10-year-old is expected to provide a stern challenge once again.

Uncle Bert and Mario De Pail appeal most of the remainder.

Royal Ascot winner BURDETT ROAD has made a bright start to his hurdling career and backed up his debut success at Huntingdon by landing a Grade 2 at Cheltenham last month. He showcased his versatility with regards to tactics on that occasion and should stamp his authority here, despite having to give 5lb to all of his rivals. Harsh built on his Punchestown third when scoring at Cork and is likely to enter calculations, while others to note include Balboa, who finished second at Cheltenham last time, and Salver.

This has very much been the plan for Super Survivor since winning on this card 12 months ago and the forecast rain should play to the strengths of the seven-year-old, who warmed up by finishing runner-up to stable companion Git Maker at Lingfield. The vote, though, goes to 2021 hero IWILLDOIT. He returned with a fine display to fill the runner-up spot in a Pertemps qualifier at Aintree and his rider’s 7lb allowance gives him an excellent chance of adding another big staying chase prize to his CV. Recent course winner Nassalam, The Galloping Bear and Chambard, who took the Becher Chase at Aintree last time, complete the shortlist.

SHOWBUSINESS won over hurdles in Ireland when trained by Gordon Elliott and is lightly raced for new handler Tim Vaughan. On his chase debut over C&D on similar ground last month, the six-year-old produced a cracking effort for the silver medal and is entitled to take a big step forward off just 1lb higher. Four-time hurdles winner Aggagio will likely prove popular on his fencing bow and is noted, along with Greenrock Abbey.sh before now, he should be hard to beat on his return to the fray. Dalamoi and Gustavian complete the shortlist.

The battle of the C&D debut winners and ROCKING MAN was the most impressive when he bolted up here last month. Paul Nicholls saddles Kap Boy, who won a four-runner race here in October, and the master handler should know where he stands with the selection on a line through Jacobin, so the market may tell us more. Nevertheless, it’s Sam Thomas’ charge who is taken to come out on top, with point-to-point winner Queensbury Boy the one expected to follow that pair home.

HOW TO READ THE RACECARD 1

2

3

4

5

6

17

THE TWO AMIGOS (GB) (27)

7

8

10

10

9

6

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Oscar’s Reprieve (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner:Bradley Partnership Colours: MAROON, BEIGE star, diabolo on sleeves Trainer:Nicky Martin, Minehead and star on cap.

Breeder: Upton Viva Stud Form: F242-03 D Sponsor: Charles Simpson Organisation Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Winless since 2019. Did bounce straight back from a rare poor run on reappearance when third in Haydock veterans’ event last month but unlikely he’ll be snapping that losing run in a race as competitive at this.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 127

10 1. Jockey Colours 2. Saddlecloth Number 3. Colour & Sex of Horse

David Prichard (5)

11

4. Horse Name 5. Dam/Sire 6. Days since last run 7. Age of Horse

8. Weight (st lbs) 9. Jockey Name 10. Form Guide

11. Form Figures Bold Figures indicate point-to-point form

Star Ratings Explained

Each horse has been given a star rating, these are defined below: HHHHH Selected to win the race.

HHHHI Good chance of being placed.

HHHII By no means out of the reckoning but at least one or two hold stronger claims HHIII Unlikely to win but not totally without hope.

HIIII Can be given little or no chance.

Abbreviations

Colour: B = Bay, Br = Brown, Ch = Chestnut, Gr = Grey, Ro = Roan, Sex of Horse: c = Colt, h = Horse, g = gelding, f = filly, m = mare Form Figure: BF-Beaten Favourite. B-Brought Down. C-Course Winner. D-Distance Winner. F-Fell. P-Pulled Up. R-Refused. S-Slipped Up. U-Unseated. d-Disqualified. r-Ran Out.

PARADE OF PREVIOUS WINNERS OF THE CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL 11:15 RAZ DE MAREE Jenny, who owns Raz, looked after him in his racing career when he was with trainer Gavin Cromwell, for whom he won the Welsh Grand National. Jenny and Raz De Maree travelled over to Chepstow for three consecutive years in the Christmas period for the meeting. In the parade ring, two old rivals are meeting once again as Raz came second to Native River in his first attempt over the Welsh National trip. However, just over a year later, Raz De Maree had his glory day by winning the race under Welsh Jockey James Bowen. Upon winning the race James was the youngest ever jockey to do so at 16 years of age, whilst Raz De Maree was the oldest ever horse, nearly matching James’ age at 13 years old. In a race that had been postponed due to waterlogging, the 2017 race was run on heavy ground the following month and Raz De Maree put in valiant effort, showing heart as, in his trainer’s words, ‘he went flat to the boards’ down the back straight before making a decisive move four out, cruising thereafter to win by six lengths at 16-1. On a third attempt, he was still in the running coming 5th in the 2018 race before retiring around a year later. At home in Ireland Jenny managed to reconnect with Raz and bring him back to his top physique as you can see today. Jenny and Raz De Maree started showing this year and got to the Royal Dublin Show in August. She says ‘he is a natural and a real gent to look after, everyone knows him and he still has a great following today after his racing career’. Believe it or not, and you wouldn’t looking at him, but Raz will be 19 years old in January, and is still in flying form.

NATIVE RIVER

Native River is a striking chestnut with four white socks and he boasts an impressive career with 14 wins on his record. A winner of the Welsh National in 2016, the same race he retired from racing two years ago. He brought his trainer Colin Tizzard, and owners Garth and Anne Broom, plenty of joy in the 2016/2017 season winning the Hennessy Gold Cup and the Denman Chase at Newbury, alongside the Welsh National. He also proved himself further in 2018 winning one of National Hunt racing’s most prestigious chases, the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Following a fantastic career on the track Native River has continued to contribute to the racing industry and he now has an active life residing at Tom Malone's farm only a few miles away from his owners Garth and Anne Broom. He has been successfully competing in Retraining of Racehorse classes this summer and has qualified for all the major shows next year. He has also been going to trail-hunting and show jumping throughout this winter.

POTTERS CORNER

Was trained by Welsh trainer and ex jockey Christian Williams. He won the race in 2019 and had previously won three other races at Chepstow including his British debut. He won the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter just nine months before he became the first locally trained winner of the Welsh National in 54 years. Potters Corner made a mark in racing history without ever leaving his home winning the Virtual Grand National in 2020 when the Grand National was cancelled. He has had a great career spanning 35 races achieving 7 wins and gaining him a reputation as one of the top staying chasers. Potters Corner retired last year in November and he currently enjoys hunting.

Native River Raz De Maree

Potters Corner

LAST 52 YEARS CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL WINNERS WE THANK CORAL FOR THEIR SUPPORT YEAR

WINNER

OWNER

TRAINER

JOCKEY

2022

The Two Amigos

Bradley Partnership

Nicky Martin

David Prichard

2021

Iwilldoit

Diamond Racing Ltd

Sam Thomas

Stan Sheppard

2020

Secret Reprieve

Mr & Mrs William Rucker

Evan Williams

Adam Wedge

2019

Potters Corner

All Stars Sports Racing & J Davies

Christian Williams

Jack Tudor

2018

Elegant Escape

Mr J. P. Romans

Colin Tizzard

Tom O’Brien

2017

Raz De Maree

James J Swan

Gavin Cromwell

James Bowen

2016

Native River

Brocade Racing

Colin Tizzard

Richard Johnson

2015

Mountainous

Hartley Phillips Roseff Shields

Kerry Lee

2014

Emperor’s Choice

The Bellamy Partnership

Venetia Williams

2013

Mountainous

Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter

Richard Lee

Paul Moloney

2012

Monbeg Dude

Oydunow

Michael Scudamore

Paul Carberry

2011

Le Beau Bai

Glass Half Full

Richard Lee

Charlie Poste

2010

Synchronised

Mr J. P. McManus

Jonjo O’Neill

A. P. McCoy

2009

Dream Alliance

The Alliance Partnership

P. J. Hobbs

Tom O’Brien

2008

Notre Pere

Mrs P. J. Conway

J. T. R. Dreaper

2007

Miko de Beauchene

Andrew Wiles

R. H. Alner

2006

Halcon Genelardais

Ian Payne & Kim Franklin

A. King

2005

L’Aventure

C. J. Harriman

P. F. Nicholls

Leighton Aspell

2004

Silver Birch

D. J. Nichols

P. F. Nicholls

R. Walsh

2003

Bindaree

H. R. Mould

N. Twiston-Davies

2002

Mini Sensation

Mr J. P. McManus

Jonjo O’Neill

A. Dobbin

2001

Supreme Glory

C. J. L. Moorsom

P. Murphy

L. Aspell

2000

Jocks Cross

Mrs G. Harrison

Venetia Williams

Jamie Moore Aidan Coleman

A. E. Lynch Andrew Thornton Wayne Hutchinson

C. Llewellyn

B. J. Crowley

1999

Edmond

Lady Knutsford

Henry Daly

Richard Johnson

1998

Kendal Cavalier

Michael Wingfield Darby

Nigel Hawke

1997

Earth Summit

The Summit Partnership

Nigel Twiston-Davies

1996

ABANDONED

1995

ABANDONED

1994

Master Oats

P.A Matthews

Kim Bailey

Norman Williamson

1993

Riverside Boy

Bisgrove Partnership

Martin Pipe

Richard Dunwoody

1992

Run For Free

Alan Hill

Martin Pipe

Mark Peratt

1991

Carvill’s Hill

Paul Green

Martin Pipe

Peter Scudamore

1990

Cool Ground

7 Regiment Army Air Corps

Reg Akehurst

1989

Bonanza Boy

News International

Martin Pipe

Peter Scudamore

1988

Bonanza Boy

News International

Martin Pipe

Peter Scudamore

1987

Playschool

R.E.W Cottle

David Barons

Paul Nicholls

1986

Stearsby

T.P Ramsden

Jenny Pitman

Graham Bradley

1985

Run And Skip

W Marzouk

John Spearing

Peter Scudamore

1984

Righthand Man

Monica Dickinson

Graham Bradley

1983

Burrough Hill Lad

R.S Riley

Jenny Pitman

John Francomel

1982

Corbiere

B.R.H Burrough

Jenny Pitman

Ben de Haan

1981

Peaty Sandy

Miss H.B Hamilton

Helen Hamilton

Geordie Dun

1980

Narvik

Lady Cadogan

Neville Crump

John Francome

1979

Peter Scot

Graham Amey

David Gandolfo

Paul Barton

1978

ABANDONED

1977

ABANDONED

1976

Rag Trade

P.B Raymond

Fred Rimell

John Burke

1975

ABANDONED

1974

Pattered

Mr T. Winterton

Earl Jones

Ken White

1973

Deblin’s Green

Mr G.H Yardley

George Yardley

Nigel Wakley

1972

Charlie H

J.C Clay & C.C Williams

Bob Turnell

Johnny Haine

1971

Royal Toss

Mr H. Handel

Tim Handel

Paddy Cowley

Barry Fenton Tom Jenks

Luke Harvey

2023 Has Been Another Great Year For Welsh Horse Racing Latch that had done so much to support the Williams family at such a difficult time. The promotional film made before the race won an award at the Racecourse Association’s annual awards ceremony.

Al Dancer

Sean Bowen is making more and more headlines now, as he leads the National Hunt jockeys’ table and has every chance of becoming champion for the first time providing he avoids injury. He recently rode his third Grade 1 winner on Not So Sleepy in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle.

Kitty’s Light pulled off an unprecedented hat-trick of staying races for Christian Williams and Jack Tudor.

He began with Newcastle’s Eider Chase over 4m1f.

Then he won the Scottish National at Ayr, over the same distance. He came out of that so well he was tried again in the 3m5f Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown, and won that too. All this was happening soon after his daughter Betsy was diagnosed with leukaemia.

In October Chepstow staged the Welsh Jump Jockeys’ Derby, run in aid of the Welsh children’s cancer charity

This year saw the retirement of jockey David Prichard, who although partnering just 37 winners in Britain during his career gave a memorable ride The Two Amigos to victory in the Welsh Grand National last season, which was his best ever numerically.

Sam Thomas’s 2021 Welsh Grand National winner Iwilldoit returned from a 383 day absence to win the 3m5f Warwick Classic Chase in January carrying eleven stone ten. It was only his fifth steeplechase.

Horses trained by Thomas and owned or part-owned

by Dai Walters have won £300,000 this year. Our Sean Bowen Power landed the Coral Trophy at Kempton, and at Chepstow’s Jump Season Opener both Al Dancer and Stolen Silver won big races.

Sheila Lewis’s two-mile chaser Straw Fan Jack was fourth in the Arkle and gave Pic D’Orhy a fright when coming second at Ascot in November.

On the flat Pyledriver came back from a long lay-off to take Royal Ascot’s Hardwicke Stakes. Next time he finished fifth when trying to win a second consecutive King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes. The best Welsh-owned flat racer for many years is now going to stand at Coolmore as a National Hunt sire.

Two Welsh jockeys rode more than a hundred winners on the flat. David Probert passed that milestone for the sixth time, and while doing so rode the 1,500th winner of his career. West Wales-born Daniel Muscutt’s century came on top of his triumph in last winter’s All-Weather Flat Jockeys’ championship.

Stolen Silver

David Evans trained over 50 winners and amassed £650,000 in prize money. Though his stable star Rohaan was below par for much of the season, in October he scored his tenth career victory at Ascot, where he has now won five times.

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED TAKE A PRICE ON YOUR HORSE AND IF THE STARTING PRICE IS BIGGER WE WILL PAY THE BIGGER ODDS.

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED: 18+. UK & ROI Customers only. Bet type restrictions apply. £50k offer cap daily per customer. From 8.00am on the day of event only. We pay bigger odds after deduction if Rule 4 applies. T&Cs apply. PLEASE BET RESPONSIBLY begambleaware.org - Need Help? Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133.

First Race 12.00

2m 3f 100y

THE PLAY CORAL RACING-SUPERSERIES FOR FREE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE) (Class 4) for maiden four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £8300

Owners Prize Money. Winner £3463; Second £1732; Third £865; Fourth £433.

(Penalty Value £4520.18)

1

For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 ANOTHER LORD (IRE) (35)

Age

st

lb

6 11 4

Ch g Sans Frontieres (IRE) - Run Cat (IRE) (Lord Americo) Owner: Miss Jayne Brace & Mr Gwyn Brace Colours: RED, YELLOW diamond, RED sleeves, Trainer: Peter Bowen, Haverfordwest YELLOW spots, RED cap, YELLOW diamond.

Breeder: Martin Keating Form: 063/3-04 Sponsor: Peter and Karen Bowen Racing TIMEFORM VIEW Placed in bumpers during spring 2022 but more one for handicaps judged on his efforts in maiden hurdles since returning from an absence.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

2 BROUGHSHANE (IRE) (404) B g Mahler - Shuil Milan (IRE) (Milan) Owner: Mrs Gay Smith Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: Michael Murphy Sponsor: Wasdell Group, Ashford Stud

James Bowen

5 11 4

Colours: WHITE, MAUVE stars.

Form: 1/r-

TIMEFORM VIEW Cost £150,000 after easily winning his sole start in Irish points in February and was well backed prior to running out approaching home turn on his debut at Ascot 13 months ago. Interesting to see what the betting makes of him ahead of this return to action.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

3 CHECK THE SCORE (IRE) (244)

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

5 11 4

B g Mahler - Summer Again (IRE) (Scorpion (IRE)) Owner: Craig & Laura Buckingham Colours: BLACK, ORANGE star.

Trainer: Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham Form: P11Breeder: Mrs R. Molony Sponsor: Manor Farm Bloodstock

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful on second of 2 starts in Irish points and made a winning start in bumpers in 17-runner event at Warwick (2m) 8 months ago, staying on to lead final 50 yds. Step up in trip will suit on hurdle debut and he’s an interesting contender.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating -

4 DIAMOND MONARCH (IRE) (327)

Paddy Brennan

6 11 4

B g Imperial Monarch (IRE) - Otorum (IRE) (Muroto) Owner: Diamond Racing & Paul Lightfoot Colours: BLACK, EMERALD GREEN triple Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff diamond, diamonds on sleeves, BLACK cap, Breeder: Mrs Noeleen and Tom O’Toole EMERALD GREEN diamond.

Form: PTIMEFORM VIEW Pulled up in a novice hurdle at this course on debut 10 months ago.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating - Shane Quinlan (3)

5 HOME AND DRY (IRE) (188)

5 11 4

Ch g Sea The Stars (IRE) - Pale Mimosa (IRE) (Singspiel (IRE)) Owner: Mr T. Faulkner Colours: EMERALD GREEN, ROYAL BLUE stripe, Trainer: Deborah Faulkner, Chepstow hooped sleeves and cap.

Breeder: Merriebelle Irish Farm Ltd Form: Sponsor: Valley Water Services Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Fair handicapper on Flat, stays 2m, another good effort last time.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

16

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

David Bass

6 JONGLEUR D’ETOILES (FR) (18)

B g It’s Gino (GER) - Salika (FR) (Califet (FR)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke Trainer: Breeder: Mr Guy Cherel & Mlle Martine Glais

4 11 4

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap.

Form: 6000

TIMEFORM VIEW Failed to meet expectations on sole bumper outing and well held all 3 starts over hurdles.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Richie McLernon Likely type for low-grade handicaps.

7 LARGY POET (IRE) (35)

Ch g Malinas (GER) - Our Soiree (IRE) (Milan) Owner: Million in Mind Partnership Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Kevin Cullen Sponsor: Goffs Uk Ltd

4 11 4 Colours: EMERALD GREEN and RED diabolo, WHITE sleeves, EMERALD GREEN diamonds, WHITE cap, RED diamond.

Form: 2-4

TIMEFORM VIEW Cost £85,000 after finishing runner-up in his sole Irish point in April. Joined Paul Nicholls and shaped as if in need of the experience when fourth in 6-runner bumper a Ffos Las last month. Better expected now hurdling. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 22/11/2023 it was reported that the horse hung right-handed late-on.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

8 MAC’S LEGACY (IRE) (28)

1 Harry Cobden

6 11 4

B g Fame And Glory - Eurowinner (IRE) (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Claire Lockett & Rebecca Curtis Colours: PURPLE and RED (quartered), Trainer: Rebecca Curtis, Newport PURPLE sleeves, RED cap.

Breeder: Thomas Mulhern Form: 40-06 Sponsor: William Hill

TIMEFORM VIEW Hadn’t looked much in bumpers and has done little to alter that view since switched to hurdles.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

9 MAHLAND (IRE) (256)

Ch g Mahler - Ebaniya (IRE) (Sinndar (IRE)) Owner: Lady Dulverton Trainer: Mel Rowley, Bridgnorth Breeder: Con O’Keeffe

Lilly Pinchin

5 11 4 Colours: YELLOW, EMERALD GREEN epaulets and armlets.

Form: 21-

TIMEFORM VIEW €38,000 3-y-o, Mahler gelding. Dam, made frame on Flat, half-sister to smart hurdler (2m-2 1/2m winner) Ebaziyan and fair hurdler (stayed 2 1/2m) Ebanour. Off mark in points at second attempt in April and would need taking seriously if the market speaks in his favour.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

10 MAXIMUM EFFORT (GB) (46)

Charlie Deutsch

4 11 4

Br g Dartmouth - Theatre Goer (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Mr Noel Williams Colours: BEIGE, WHITE sleeves, Trainer: Noel Williams, Blewbury BLACK diamonds, WHITE cap, BLACK diamonds.

Breeder: Noel Williams Form: 0-0 Sponsor: Noel Williams Racing Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Looks one for the longer term judged on bumper exploits.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

11 MINELLA BLUEWAY (IRE) (35)

James Davies

5 11 4

B g Champs Elysees - Final Episode (IRE) (Definite Article) Owner: Mrs Janet Davies Colours: DARK GREEN, DARK GREEN and Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan WHITE diabolo on sleeves.

Breeder: Sean Collins & John Fitzpatrick Form: 12-32 BF TIMEFORM VIEW Winning Irish pointer who has shaped well in a couple of maiden hurdles, conceding first run to the winner when second at Ffos Las (20f, heavy) last month. Remains with potential and shouldn’t be long in going one better.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 118

12 MISTYMAL (IRE) (14)

Adam Wedge

5 11 4

B g Malinas (GER) - Amazon Mist (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Mr J Durston & Mr N Harris Colours: LIGHT BLUE, PINK star, PINK sleeves, Trainer: Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge LIGHT BLUE armlets, LIGHT BLUE cap, PINK star.

Breeder: Denis Ahern Form: 541-3P6 Sponsor: Dragonbet, Tote TIMEFORM VIEW Won a point but there’s been nothing in the way of encouragement so far over hurdles.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

Alan Johns

17

13 PRIVATE PIKE (GB) (57)

5 11 4

B g Pether’s Moon (IRE) - Definitley Lovely (Definite Article) Owner: Mr N. A. Twiston-Davies Colours: BLACK, WHITE sleeves, YELLOW cap.

Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Trainer: Form: S-30 Breeder: Nigel Twiston-Davies Sponsor: Courtiers Investment Services Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Slipped up sole start in bumpers and went backwards from hurdling when only eleventh of 16 in Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Sam Twiston-Davies a C&D maiden hurdle.

14 COME ON NIA (GB) (33)

4 10 11

B f Telescope (IRE) - Call Me A Star (Midnight Legend) Owner: Mr A. V. John Colours: BLACK and RED diamonds, RED and Trainer: Andrew Martin, Chipping Norton BLACK diabolo on sleeves, BLACK cap, RED star.

Breeder: D. and Mrs Holmes Form: 06 Sponsor: Andy Martin Racing

1

TIMEFORM VIEW Telescope filly who has shown little in a course bumper/maiden hurdle.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

15 THE MIDWIFE (IRE) (33)

James Martin (7)

5 10 11

B m Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Thespian (IRE) (Tiraaz (USA)) Owner: Foxhills Racing Limited Colours: RED, ORANGE diamond, ORANGE sleeves, Trainer: Grace Harris, Shirenewton RED stars, ORANGE cap, RED diamonds.

Breeder: John & Miriam Murphy Form: 16-P5 Sponsor: Grace Harris Racing TIMEFORM VIEW Successful sole start in Irish points but just minor promise so far under Rules.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

Conor Ring (3)

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 15 (EXACTA) Hood worn by No. 1.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER SAINT DAVY (FR) Age: 5 Weight: 11 4 Jonjo O’Neill Jr 7-2 (Jonjo O’Neill) 15 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 11-4 Minella Blueway (IRE), 10-3 Check The Score (IRE), 9-2 Broughshane (IRE), 13-2 Largy Poet (IRE), 8-1 Mahland (IRE), 25-1 Home And Dry (IRE), 80-1 Another Lord (IRE), The Midwife (IRE), 100-1 Diamond Monarch (IRE), 150-1 Mac’s Legacy (IRE), Maximum Effort (GB), Mistymal (IRE), Private Pike (GB), Come On Nia (GB), 200-1 Jongleur d’Etoiles (FR) Race Summary: CHECK THE SCORE showed a good attitude to get up in the final 50 yds in a Warwick bumper in April and, with the longer trip sure to suit on this switch to hurdling, he’s fancied to make it 2 from 2 under Rules. Minella Blueway has shaped well on both his starts over hurdles and remains with potential, while successful pointer Mahland and Largy Poet are others to consider.

1-2-3: 1.CHECK THE SCORE (IRE) 2.MINELLA BLUEWAY (IRE) 3.MAHLAND (IRE)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

18

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

SEAN BOWEN... A CHAMPION IN THE MAKING WITH ONLY WINNING ON HIS MIND December often means a change in diet for many people, but not for Sean Bowen.

Wales’ leading jockey - many lengths ahead of his challengers as he gallops towards the title of Champion Jump Jockey - rises at 5.30am most days and is riding out before breakfast.

“Afterwards, I’ll sit down and have my usual berries and yoghurt with maybe a bit of honey on top.”

Enquiries about whether that is taken with a healthy dollop of porridge are met with a smile.

“No, no. Just the yoghurt and the berries,” he says. “I may have a little bit of porridge once in a while in mid-winter, as a treat.”

So, that’s breakfast sorted. What about lunch?

Does he then eat a decent lunch before he spends four hours riding at a meeting?

“No. I would maybe nibble away at a bit of chicken or a bit of fruit, just to keep me going.

Then, I’d eat a proper meal when I’m home.”

Bowen is sitting in a room at Chepstow Racecourse, venue for the annual Coral Welsh Grand National on December 27, the biggest horse race of the year in Wales and a gathering point for most loyal fans of the sport, however occasional.

It’s a race that the 26-year-old is keen to win, but then he’s keen to win every race - whether it’s the Coral Welsh Grand National, the “other” Grand National or the Cheltenham Gold Cup. The race he really wants to finish first in, though, more than glory at Chepstow, Aintree or Cheltenham, is the Jump Jockey’s Championship - the Golden Boot of the racing world, where instead of measuring goals, it’s the number of times a jockey can ride a winner.

It’s what all those tiny breakfasts and slivers of chicken for lunch are about, maintaining his weight somewhere around the jump jockey minimum of 10st 2lbs.

If you were told Bowen was one of Wales’ leading athletes but didn’t know his sport, you might guess by his build he was a scrum-half in

the Gareth Davies mould, or maybe a low-centre-of-gravity wide man in football, like a Dan James.

Like Davies and James, when the rider from Pembrokeshire is not on a horse, he’s most likely in the gym, grinding it out on a Wattbike or bench-pressing weights.

“Most jockeys are naturally fit through racing, but I like to top it up in the gym and I also have a personal trainer.

“Before I race at a meeting, I’ll go for a run around the course to warm-up, but I wouldn’t say I’m a particularly good runner. Alan Johns is a very good runner, but the best in the weighing room is Conor Ring. He’s incredible.”

Bowen says his personal trainer has also worked with both footballers and rugby players and says the professional’s verdict is that jockeys’ overall fitness compares with both.

“He says there are certain things where we wouldn’t score anywhere near the rugby players or the footballers, but there are other aspects of fitness where they wouldn’t get anywhere near us.

“Footballers need sharp, sprinting speed, which is less important for us. It’s different disciplines, so different aspects of fitness are needed.”

Horses for courses, then. The footballer comparison is relevant since Bowen’s first love

growing up with his younger brother James - also a professional jockey - was football.

“Until I was about 10 years old, all I wanted to do was play football. I was Chelsea-mad and my sporting hero then was Frank Lampard.

“I was about 12 when James started riding a pony and I thought I’d better try it, too, because he was younger than me.

“It wasn’t long before I really got into it, and then from ages of 12, 13, 14, it was pretty much all I wanted to do every day – all day, until it got dark.”

The football bug left him, although he says it’s returned as a fan in recent years and anyone who witnessed his interview with Sky Sports earlier this year could not have failed to smile at his Premier League reference.

Asked if he was going to stay ahead of his nearest rival – Harry Cobden - and win the title, or crumple under the pressure of front-running, Bowen replied that he needed to be champion otherwise, “I’ll be known as the Arsenal of the weighing room!”

Spoken like a true Chelsea fan.

It helped as a kid that the Bowen boys – Sean is the middle brother of three – had parents, Peter and Karen, who were racehorse trainers. A bit like Erling Haaland is the son of Alfie Haaland, a former professional footballer at Leeds United.

But here’s the difference between Haaland’s pursuit of the Golden Boot award for top scorer in the Premier League and Bowen’s mission to be champion jockey.

Haaland’s main focus is to enable Manchester City to become European and domestic champions again. The Golden Boot is a nice side-effect.

Bowen is obsessively – perhaps ruthlessly chasing as many winners as he can get to be champion, almost regardless of where they may be found – from Ayr to Exeter, from Ffos Las to Doncaster.

It means the big races are not his priority. As he openly admits, if there are more winners to be had at the smaller race days that clash with the big ones, he will point his car in the direction of the lesser lights.

“At this moment, I would take being Champion Jockey over riding the winner at Aintree or Cheltenham.

“In an ideal world I’d win a Grand National and a Gold Cup, and also be Champion Jockey, but you can’t have everything.

“For this year, it’s all about the numbers. If I had a big race to ride at the Cheltenham Festival, but three half-decent rides at Sedgefield, then normally you’d go to Cheltenham.

“But this year, I’d go to Sedgefield because I’m chasing the winners.”

That’s like Haaland not playing for Manchester City against Real Madrid in a Champions League semi-final, because he fancied scoring six goals against Newport County in the FA Cup, instead.

One race Bowen will be desperate not to swerve, however, is the Coral Welsh Grand National – a race brother James already holds one over on him as the younger Bowen was the winning jockey in 2017 on Raz De Maree.

“The Welsh Grand National is our biggest race day in Wales, and it’s one now targeted by all the major trainers like Paul Nicholls and Venetia Williams.

“They all want a piece of it and a lot of Irish trainers come over to run their horses in it, as well.

“It’s great for Wales that we have such a prestigious race at Chepstow and it’s become one in the calendar that everyone wants to win.”

If Bowen does win as part of a Champion Jockey season, then don’t expect it to go to his head.

The fame and fortune for being a champion in horse racing are still some way behind football.

“I want racing to continue growing as a sport and it has grown hugely in Wales in recent times.

“But we haven’t had many superstar jockeys in the sport, apart from Frankie Dettori and AP McCoy. “Not many people stop me when I walk down the street or put petrol in my car. I won’t be entering the jungle any time soon.

WIN UP TO

£25,000

FOR FREE

ON CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL DAY.

RACING SUPER SERIES: 18+. UK & ROI Customers only. Online and In-Shop with Connect. Max 1 online entry per customer per game. Correctly select a horse to Place in each of the selected races to win a share of cash prize-pot. Racing rules apply. Restrictions + T&Cs apply. PLEASE BET RESPONSIBLY begambleaware.org -Need Help?

Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133

Second Race 12.30

2m 11y

THE CORAL GET CLOSER TO THE ACTION NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE) (Class 4) for novice four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £8300

Owners Prize Money. Winner £3463; Second £1732; Third £865; Fourth £433.

(Penalty Value £4520.18) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 IMPERIAL SAINT (FR) (30)

Age

st

lb

5 11 7

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Quinine de Mazille (FR) (Network (GER)) Owner: Richard Johnson Racing Imperial Saint Colours: GOLD, BLUE and GOLD quartered cap.

Trainer: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, Minehead Form: 35-11 D Karine Perreau & Louis Colson Breeder: Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

2

TIMEFORM VIEW £40,000 5-y-o, Saint Des Saints gelding. Brother to 2 winners, and half-brother to 3 winners, including fairly useful French chaser Cri d’Amour. Easily off mark in Irish points at third attempt in May and went with zest when following up on hurdles bow at Ludlow a month ago.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating -

2 ITO DITTO (FR) (31)

Micheal Nolan

5 11 7

B g Ito (GER) - Morning Moon (King’s Best (USA)) Owner: Bradley Partnership Colours: MAROON, BEIGE star, diabolo on sleeves Trainer: Nicky Martin, Minehead and star on cap.

Breeder: Ecurie Des Charmes & Mr M. Martinez Form: 0630-12 CD Sponsor: Charles Simpson Organisation Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Returned from 7 months off much improved with a maiden win in 12-runner handicap hurdle at Chepstow (16f, soft) in October and even better form when runner-up from revised mark at Exeter, pulling clear with Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 111 another in-form rival. Respected back in novice company.

3 JACKPOT D’ATHOU (FR) (49)

James Bowen

4 11 7

Ch g Doctor Dino (FR) - Victoire d’Athom (FR) (Ange Gabriel (FR)) Owner: Giles, Ferguson, Hogarth, Mason, McGoff Colours: WHITE, ROYAL BLUE epaulets, Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat WHITE sleeves, RED spots, ROYAL BLUE cap.

Breeder: Mrs Marie-Josee Corbin Form: 232-1 CD Sponsor: Morson Group TIMEFORM VIEW €165,000 purchase on the back of finishing runner-up sole start in a French bumper and similar form when twice hitting the frame for new yard in that sphere during the spring. Underwent breathing surgery in the interim and made winning hurdles debut over C&D last month. More to come.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

4 ABSOLUTE STEEL (IRE) (20)

Harry Cobden

4 11 0

B g Mount Nelson - Massini Rose (IRE) (Dr Massini (IRE)) Owner: ValueRacingClub.co.uk Colours: WHITE, BLACK epaulets, MAROON and Trainer: Tom Lacey, Woolhope WHITE diabolo on sleeves, BLACK and MAROON Breeder: Patrick Griffin quartered cap.

Sponsor: Plusbac Form: 5 TIMEFORM VIEW €16,000 3-y-o, Mount Nelson gelding. Half-brother to fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Daphne Moon and fair hurdler/fairly useful chaser Mulberry Hill. No impact in a Market Rasen bumper 3 weeks ago.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

5 CAPTAIN WALLACE (IRE) (25)

B g Milan - Garlucy (IRE) (Un Desperado (FR)) Owner: Mr Mark Peart Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff Breeder: Terence Conroy Sponsor: Tote

5 11 0

Colours: DARK GREEN, BEIGE star, EMERALD GREEN sleeves.

Form: 42-60

TIMEFORM VIEW Brother to 2 winners and went close on the second of his 2 starts in Irish maiden points earlier this year. Disappointing having attracted support in novice here (19.5f) on hurdling debut and didn’t fare much better at Newbury. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 2/12/2023 it was reported that the horse lost its right-hind shoe.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

24

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

David Noonan

Charlie Deutsch

6 JASMIN DE GRUGY (FR) (67)

4 11 0

B g Masked Marvel - Rose de Grugy (FR) (Alamo Bay (USA)) Owner: Mr John P. McManus Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Trainer: WHITE cap.

Breeder: S.C.E.A. Ecurie La Grugerie Form: FU4-0 Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk TIMEFORM VIEW Once-raced in points and cost a bit, but offered little on hurdles debut at Newton Abbot 10 weeks ago.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

7 MY FRIEND SEAN (IRE) (13) B g Sholokhov (IRE) - Kaffie (Kayf Tara) Owner: Mr David Kellett Trainer: Tom Lacey, Woolhope Breeder: Anthony Smiddy Sponsor: Plusbac

Richie McLernon

4 11 0

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, WHITE chevron, WHITE and EMERALD GREEN halved sleeves.

Form: 60

TIMEFORM VIEW Look a long-term project on what he’s achieved in a bumper/novice hurdle.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

8 RULER LEGEND (IRE) (207)

Richard Patrick

4 11 0

2

B g Camelot - Avenue Dargent (FR) (Kendargent (FR)) Owner: Barrowman Racing Limited Colours: ROYAL BLUE, EMERALD GREEN Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham chevrons, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, EMERALD Breeder: Cocheteux-Tierno Roberto GREEN stars, RED cap.

Sponsor: Knox Group Form: 4 TIMEFORM VIEW Useful Irish Flat 10f winner in 2022. Likely needed the run on hurdles debut in June but off the track again since. In good hands and market may guide.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

9 SHILLANAVOGY (IRE) (7)

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

5 11 0

B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Lady Azamour (IRE) (Azamour (IRE)) Owner: Both Ways Partnership Colours: RED, BLACK and WHITE chevrons on Trainer: Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn sleeves.

Breeder: Edmond & Mark Coleman Form: 436-50 Sponsor: 1Account Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Cost £65,000 after making the frame both starts in Irish points but well held in 3 starts for new connections.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

10 SKY POWER (IRE) (33)

Caoilin Quinn (3)

6 11 0

B g Fastnet Rock (AUS) - Dame Blanche (IRE) (Be My Guest (USA)) Owner: Mr M. Duthie Colours: ROYAL BLUE, RED chevron, Trainer: Robert Stephens, Caldicot hooped sleeves, RED cap, ROYAL BLUE star.

Breeder: Rockhart Trading Ltd Form: 00

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful at best on Flat (stays 1 1/2m) but not at that level lately and low-key start over timber.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

11 SOLSTICE SAINT (IRE) (15)

James Davies

4 11 0

B g Court Cave (IRE) - South West Nine (IRE) (Oscar (IRE)) Owner: Mr G. Pike Colours: ROYAL BLUE, YELLOW sash, Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster ROYAL BLUE and RED hooped sleeves, Breeder: Mrs L. A. Nesbitt WHITE cap.

Sponsor: Solstice Kitchens Form: 5006

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to 4 winners but hasn’t shown enough in 2 bumpers/novice hurdles to fancy his chances here.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Sam Twiston-Davies

12 FOLLOWANGO (IRE) (45)

5 10 7

B m Ocovango - Follow The Icon (Black Sam Bellamy (IRE)) Owner: W J Evans Racing Colours: DARK BLUE, LIGHT BLUE sleeves, Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan quartered cap.

Breeder: Patrick McCarthy Form: 1-1 D Sponsor: Tote TIMEFORM VIEW Irish point winner barely had to come off the bridle to make a winning Rules debut in a 2m bumper at Ffos Las last month. Promising hurdles newcomer.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating - Isabel Williams (3)

25

13 INION TIOGAIR (IRE) (49)

6 10 7

Br m Westerner - Tiger Bay Lady (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Foxhills Racing Limited Colours: RED, ORANGE diamond, Trainer: Grace Harris, Shirenewton ORANGE sleeves, RED stars, ORANGE cap, Aidan Aherne Breeder: RED diamonds.

Sponsor: Grace Harris Racing Form: 2100-03 D TIMEFORM VIEW Fair bumper winner last season. Better effort in C&D hurdles this term when 10 lengths third of 12 Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating in novice last month but has work to do with Jackpot D’athou.

Conor Ring (3)

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 13 (EXACTA) Tongue Strap worn by No. 7.

The Result

2

1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER OUT OF OFFICE (IRE) Age: 4 Weight: 11 0 Adam Wedge 7-4 (Evan Williams) 15 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 2-1 Jackpot d’Athou (FR), 5-2 Imperial Saint (FR), 6-1 Followango (IRE), 15-2 Ito Ditto (FR), 16-1 Ruler Legend (IRE), Inion Tiogair (IRE), 40-1 Absolute Steel (IRE), 66-1 Captain Wallace (IRE), Jasmin de Grugy (FR), 300-1 My Friend Sean (IRE), Shillanavogy (IRE), Sky Power (IRE), Solstice Saint (IRE) Race Summary: Plenty of depth to this with IMPERIAL SAINT awarded the vote to complete the hat-trick following a smooth success at Ludlow a month ago. Jackpot d’Athou swerved a Grade 1 to come here so has to command respect, with Ito Ditto also arriving on the up.

1-2-3: 1.IMPERIAL SAINT (FR) 2.JACKPOT D’ATHOU (FR) 3.ITO DITTO (FR)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

26

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

FIXTURE LIST 2024 KEY

= Jumps Turf

= Flat Turf Bold text = Feature Day

= Live Entertainment (A) = Afternoon Racing (E) = Evening Racing

JANUARY Sun 7 (A) 2 for 1 Raceday Tue 16 (A) 2 for 1 Raceday Tue 30 (A) 2 for 1 Raceday

JULY Fri 12 (E) Thu 18 (E) Fri 26 (E)

FEBRUARY Sat 24 (A) Six Nations Raceday

AUGUST Thu 8 (E) Racing League Thu 15 (A) Summer Racing Mon 26 (A) Bank Holiday Family Fun Day

MARCH Sun 17 (A) St Patrick’s Raceday Thu 21 (A) Spring Racing

APRIL Mon 1 (A) Sat 13 (A) Fri 26 (E) MAY Tue 14 (E) Fri 31 (A)

SEPTEMBER

Mon 2 (A) Tue 3 (A) A Taste of Wales Raceday Grand National Party Raceday Dunraven Bowl Racenight First Flat Meeting Summer Racing

JUNE Sat 8 (E)

One Night in Nashville Raceday Mon 17 (E) Summer Racing Mon 24 (A) Summer Racing

Evening Racing Summer Racing Caribbean Night

Flat Meeting Last Flat Meeting

OCTOBER Fri 11 (A) Sat 12 (A) Tue 29 (A)

Jump Season Opener Jump Season Opener Autumn Racing

NOVEMBER Wed 6 (A) Autumn Racing Fri 22 (A) Autumn Racing DECEMBER Sat 7 (A) Christmas Party Raceday Fri 27 (A) Coral Welsh Grand National

W H AT ’ S O N :

Fixture dates, themes and entertainment may change. Please check the website for up to date information: Fixture dates, themes and entertainment may change.

C H E PPlease STOW -RACECOURSE.CO.UK check the website for up to date information: CHEPSTOW-RACECOURSE.CO.UK

Third Race 1.05

2m 3f 98y

THE CORAL BEST ODDS GUARANTEED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (GBB RACE) (Class 2) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £35000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £13912; Second £6954; Third £3479; Fourth £1739.

(Penalty Value £18210.50) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

Age

1 FIRST FLOW (IRE) (53)

st

lb

11 12 0

B g Primary (USA) - Clonroche Wells (IRE) (Pierre) Owner: Mr A. N. Solomons Colours: BLACK, EMERALD GREEN hoop and Trainer: Kim Bailey, Cheltenham armlets, EMERALD GREEN cap, BLACK spots.

Breeder: Mrs Kathleen Flood Form: 13/3U2-2 Sponsor: Kim Bailey Racing Ltd

3

TIMEFORM VIEW Still capable of high-class form despite his advancing years, as shown by his fine second back in a handicap at Ascot (16.8f, good to soft) on return. Sound claims off same mark.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 158

2 WAR LORD (GER) (18)

David Bass

8 10 12

Gr g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Westalin (GER) (Sternkoenig (IRE)) Owner: The Wychwood Partnership Colours: BLACK, WHITE triple diamond, Trainer: Joe Tizzard, Sherborne WHITE and BLACK striped sleeves, BLACK cap, Breeder: Gestut Etzean WHITE diamond.

Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited Form: P2P5-3P D TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who made an encouraging return after a patchy 2022/23 campaign when third in Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter. However, ran poorly at Aintree since so difficult to know what to expect. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on Freddie Gingell (5) Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 142 9/12/2023 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

3 GOOD RISK AT ALL (FR) (39)

7 10 7

Ch g No Risk At All (FR) - Sissi Land (FR) (Grey Risk (FR)) Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE diabolo, Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff hooped sleeves and cap.

Breeder: M. Collet, J. Collet & M. Collet Form: 1600-13 D BF TIMEFORM VIEW Matched useful hurdles form at the first attempt when making a winning return in novice chase at Carlisle in October. Not in same form in Listed chase at Cheltenham following month but looks on a good mark Sam Twiston-Davies switched to a handicap.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 137

4 QUEL DESTIN (FR) (15)

8 10 4

Ch g Muhtathir - High Destiny (FR) (High Yield (USA)) Owner: Martin Broughton & Friends Colours: RED, EMERALD GREEN Cross of Lorraine Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat and sleeves.

Breeder: S.C.E.A. Haras Des Sablonnets et al Form: 1323-01 C Sponsor: Morson Group TIMEFORM VIEW Well held on 2m Ascot reappearance but looked back to his best when winning a match race at Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 134 Fontwell 2 weeks ago. Will find this tougher.

Harry Cobden

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 4 (EXACTA) Blinkers worn by No. 4. Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 3.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

28

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

LAST YEARS WINNER FUGITIF (FR) Age: 7 Weight: 10 7 Gavin Sheehan 6-1 (Richard Hobson) 12 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 2-1 First Flow (IRE), 11-4 Good Risk At All (FR), 3-1 Quel Destin (FR), 5-1 War Lord (GER) Race Summary: GOOD RISK AT ALL is worth another chance to confirm chase debut promise off what looks a nice mark back in a handicap.

Classy-veteran First Flow is the obvious threat under top weight.

1-2-3: 1.GOOD RISK AT ALL (FR) 2.FIRST FLOW (IRE) 3.QUEL DESTIN (FR)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

HOSPITALITY

THE VIEW RESTAURANT PRIVATE BOXES

3 Panoramic Views and Delicious Food!

Combining the thrilling spectacle of racing with the finest selection of exquisite delights.

ENQUIR ENQUIRE Q I TO QU TODAY ODA AY Call Jodi Ca 01291 12 622260 260

by Satin & Lace Weddings Sponsors of Style Awards 2023

info@satinandlaceweddings.co.uk 07920167370

31 Moore Street Chepstow Monmouthshire M o NP16 5DD N

jboreham@chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

29

Fourth Race 1.40

2m 7f 131y

THE CORAL RACING CLUB JOIN FOR FREE HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE) (Class 2) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £30000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £11925; Second £5961; Third £2982; Fourth £1491; Fifth £744; Sixth £372. (Penalty Value £15609) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 DOLPHIN SQUARE (IRE) (18)

Age

st

lb

9 12 0

B g Shantou (USA) - Carrig Eden Lass (IRE) (Luso) Owner: Mr David Maxwell Colours: RED, BROWN sleeves and cap.

Trainer: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, Minehead Form: 4000-04 D Mrs Evelyn Sheridan Breeder: Sponsor: The Fitzdares Club TIMEFORM VIEW Boasts a good strike rate over fences/hurdles and he stepped up on his comeback run (in first-time blinkers) when fourth of 8 in handicap hurdle at Sandown (23.5f) 18 days ago. Eased further in weights Mr David Maxwell (3) ahead of this but others make greater appeal on balance.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 132

2 MARIO DE PAIL (FR) (52)

8 11 9

Gr g Blue Bresil (FR) - Sauveterre (FR) (Turgeon (USA)) Owner: V & A Phillips, J Martin & Bowen Group Colours: RED, EMERALD GREEN star, Trainer: Peter Bowen, Haverfordwest EMERALD GREEN and WHITE halved sleeves, Breeder: S.A.R.L. Ecurie Pigoni M & M EMERALD GREEN cap, RED stars.

Sponsor: Adept Grp Cabinets Ltd, Peter and Karen Bowen Racing Form: F23F/-44

4

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful but error-prone maiden handicap chaser who has made the frame both starts this season. On a favourable mark if this return to hurdling has positive effect.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 127

3 UNCLE BERT (GB) (25)

James Bowen

6 11 6

B g Pether’s Moon (IRE) - Azza (FR) (Great Pretender (IRE)) Owner: James & Jean Potter Ltd Colours: WHITE, RED braces, EMERALD GREEN Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham and WHITE check sleeves, WHITE cap, RED star.

Breeder: James & Jean Potter Form: 1P-14F5 Sponsor: Potter Group TIMEFORM VIEW Resumed with victory in 2m4f Perth handicap in September before creditable fourth in Silver Trophy here a month later. Not disgraced when fifth at Newbury latest and whilst his mark looks about right, this Sam Twiston-Davies longer trip could help now.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 124

4 J’AI FROID (IRE) (37)

10 11 4

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Park Wave (IRE) (Supreme Leader) Owner: Dream Team Partnership Colours: WHITE, PURPLE cross belts, WHITE and Trainer: L J Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds LIGHT BLUE striped sleeves, WHITE cap, Breeder: Patricia and Marie Keating PURPLE star.

Form: 05-5P01 D TIMEFORM VIEW Useful handicap hurdler at his best who capitalised on a reduced mark when going in at Leicester last month. Back up 2lb but he’s respected with the return to this longer trip holding no fears.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 122

5 TANGANYIKA (FR) (12)

B g Martaline - Norita Has (FR) (Kapgarde (FR)) Owner: Mrs C. S. Wilson Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Breeder: E.A.L. Haras de Montaigu et al Sponsor: Faucets Limited

5 11 0 Colours: DARK GREEN, YELLOW spots, YELLOW sleeves, DARK GREEN spots, YELLOW cap.

Form: 416-451

TIMEFORM VIEW Let reappearance run behind and justified good support in the process when accounting for 5-rivals at Bangor (23f) 12 days ago. Up 4lb but he’s unexposed at staying trips and just the type his very much Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 118 in-form yard could eke out further progress from.

30

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

John Kington

Charlie Deutsch

6 BELLS OF PETERBORO (IRE) (43)

8 10 13

Gr g Carlotamix (FR) - Power of Future (GER) (Definite Article) Owner: Mr S. Grys & Mr M. O’Boyle Colours: YELLOW, LIGHT GREEN stripe, Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Trainer: halved sleeves, LIGHT GREEN and YELLOW Breeder: J. B. Bloodstock Ltd quartered cap.

Sponsor: Dragonbet, Hercules Direct Marketing Form: 030-304 CD BF Ltd, Designation Limited TIMEFORM VIEW C&D winner. Consistent sort who shaped a lot better than his eighth place over fences might suggest in a big field at Cheltenham (25f) in October having sprawled on landing 2 out. Shade underwhelming at Lingfield latest but better showing certainly not ruled in first-time visor.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 117

7 CROSSING THE BAR (IRE) (15)

Alan Johns

6 10 12

B g Poet’s Voice - Ship’s Biscuit (Tiger Hill (IRE)) Owner: Salvo & Alex Giannini Colours: YELLOW, EMERALD GREEN star, Trainer: Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke YELLOW sleeves, EMERALD GREEN stars, Breeder: Philip Newton YELLOW cap, EMERALD GREEN star.

Form: 01-5564 TIMEFORM VIEW Successful twice over hurdles at Plumpton (both at 25f) during second half of last season.

Bit disappointing in a couple of chases in recent months but more like it when fourth over hurdles at Ffos Las (23.8f) Richie McLernon 2 weeks ago. Needs to build on that now.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 116

8 CLASSIC CONCORDE (IRE) (35)

10 10 8

B g Shantou (USA) - Morning Calm (Montjeu (IRE)) Owner: Mr David Brace Colours: BLACK, RED cross belts and armlets, Trainer: David Brace, Bridgend quartered cap.

Breeder: Victor Connolly Form: 211141 D TIMEFORM VIEW Made it 4 wins in his last 5 starts when seeing off 6 rivals at Ffos Las (3m, heavy) in November.

A further 6lb rise demands more improvement but can’t be discounted in his current mood.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 112

Connor Brace

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 8 (EXACTA) Visor worn first time by No. 6. Blinkers worn by No. 1. Tongue Strap worn by No. 7.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 4, 7, 8.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

4

LAST YEARS WINNER FLIGHT DECK (IRE) Age: 8 Weight: 12 0 Jonjo O’Neill Jr 10-1 (Jonjo O’Neill) 10 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 7-2 Tanganyika (FR), 5-1 Classic Concorde (IRE), 6-1 Uncle Bert (GB), 13-2 J’Ai Froid (IRE), 7-1 Bells of Peterboro (IRE), 8-1 Mario de Pail (FR), 9-1 Dolphin Square (IRE), 14-1 Crossing The Bar (IRE) Race Summary: BELLS OF PETERBORO needs to shrug off a lesser display at Lingfield on his latest outing but his record around here is a solid one (won this race 2 years ago) and it would come as no surprise to see him bounce back equipped with a first-time visor. Bangor-winner Tanganyika remains unexposed at staying trips and he’s feared, with J’ai Froid and Classic Concorde also in the mix.

1-2-3: 1.BELLS OF PETERBORO (IRE) 2.TANGANYIKA (FR) 3.J’AI FROID (IRE)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

31

TEN MEMORABLE WELSH GRAND NATIONAL WINNERS With the benefit of hindsight, Burrough Hill Lad being set to carry ten stone nine pounds in the 1983 Welsh National was a licence to print money. His trainer Jenny Pitman was so confident that his owners helped themselves to all the odds from 20/1 down to 100/30 and John Francome piloted him to a facile victory. Next year the horse proved himself the best chaser in the land by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup, also taking the Hennessy and the King George VI Chase in the autumn.

Cool Ground jumped well under Luke Harvey in the 1990 Welsh National, drawing clear three fences from home to win by seven lengths and provide the TV presenter with one of the highlights of his riding career. The horse won twice more before coming fourth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. After transferring to Toby Balding, in February 1992 he scored again over 3m6f at Chepstow. Even so, he was allowed to go off at 25/1 for another tilt at the Gold Cup, which he won by a short head.

Trained in Ireland, Carvill’s Hill was one of the most talked-about horses of the late 1980s and early 1990s. He won 14 of his first 20 races, galloping his rivals into the ground.

Unfortunately he was prone to back trouble, caused by jumping errors. In an attempt to rectify it he was sent to Martin Pipe and won the 1991 Rehearsal Chase at Chepstow convincingly. Next time out he dominated the Welsh National in unforgettable style, leading all the way under top weight. The 20-length runner-up, Party Politics, who carried 19 pounds less, went on to win the Grand National three months later.

Chepstow being waterlogged, the 1994 Welsh National was run at Newbury on New Year’s Eve. The soft going that winter suited Master Oats, whose trainer Kim Bailey had worked wonders to solve the problem of the horse bursting blood vessels. He was always travelling supremely well for his regular jockey Norman Williamson and strolled to a 20-length win.

Past and future Grand National winners Earth Summit and Party Politics were second and third. Four weeks later Master Oats won at Cheltenham by 15 lengths and in March he took the Gold Cup by the same margin.

Nearly three years after winning the Scottish Grand National, in 1997 the Nigel TwistonDavies trained Earth Summit went off at 25/1 in the Welsh equivalent. It was his third start following a 634-day absence due to injury. He was never out of the first two and won by a length and three quarters from Dom Samourai, who had threatened to snatch the prize away from him in the final few yards. It was Earth Summit’s third course win. Later that season he won the Aintree National and so became the first horse to win English, Scottish and Welsh Nationals.

Often a good showing in the Welsh National is seen as a pointer towards Aintree success and that was the case with Bindaree, who was third in the Chepstow race before going on to take the Grand National in 2002. His trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies had been thinking of giving up the game at that point. Bindaree’s next win was in the 2003 Welsh National. In a great finish he held on by half a length from Sir Rembrandt, who a few months later finished the same distance behind Best Mate in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, with the future National winner Hedgehunter third.

Silver Birch won the 2004 Welsh National in typically testing conditions. Trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden

by Ruby Walsh, he was already the winner of five races, including two at Chepstow and the Becher Chase over the Aintree fences, all on soft or heavy ground. With so much going for him he was made the 100/30 favourite.

After taking the lead at the third last he was all out to hang on from a host of pursuers. Later he lost his form and was sold, but his new trainer Gordon Elliott engineered an amazing revival and he won the Grand National in 2007.

The well-named Dream Alliance was bred by a group of friends from a former mining village in Wales who wanted to try their luck at the Sport of Kings. He was brought up in the untypical surroundings of allotments and slagheaps before being sent to Philip Hobbs, where he proved good enough to finish second in the Hennessy to Denman. A tendon injury put him on the sidelines for 18 months, but he was skilfully nursed back to fitness and after a prep run at Chepstow he won the 2009 Welsh National. His story was made into a film, Dream Horse.

Snow delayed the 2010 Welsh National until a week into the New Year. The chance of Synchronised was obvious, having won last season’s Midlands National over an even longer trip. With AP McCoy aboard he galloped on dourly to prevail by three lengths. His next four runs seemed to show his limitations, but then a surprise win in the valuable Lexus Chase at Leopardstown earned him an entry at the 2012 Cheltenham Gold Cup. He won that as well, to give owner JP McManus and trainer Jonjo O’Neill their first success in the race.

In 2016 Native River was a rare top-weight winner of the Welsh National. Aged only six, and carrying 11 stone 12 pounds in soft ground, he led before halfway and was being hailed as the winner once he went clear four fences out. Raz De Maree, the runner-up, narrowed the gap without ever looking like winning, but his turn came a year later when he won the race. Native River finished third in the 2017 Cheltenham Gold Cup and won it the following year after an epic duel with Might Bite. Colin Tizzard’s handsome, bold-jumping chestnut, usually ridden by Richard Johnson, won 14 of his 32 starts.

Fifth Race 2.10

2m 11y

THE CORAL FINALE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) (Class 1) for juvenile three yrs old

Total prize fund £80000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £36496; Second £14920; Third £7456; Fourth £3728.

(Penalty Value £47552) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 BURDETT ROAD (GB) (39)

st

lb

11 5

B g Muhaarar - Diamond Bangle (IRE) (Galileo (IRE)) Owner: The Gredley Family Colours: YELLOW, BLACK and YELLOW striped Trainer: James Owen, Newmarket sleeves, WHITE cap.

Breeder: Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd Form: 11 D Sponsor: Unex Group TIMEFORM VIEW Royal Ascot handicap winner on the Flat in June and has taken really well to hurdling, making it 2-2 with impressive 6 1/2-length defeat of An Bradan Feasa (won since) in Grade 2 at Cheltenham last month.

Hard to beat with further progress likely.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 137

2 AUTHOCELTIC (FR) (31)

Harry Cobden

11 0

B c Authorized (IRE) - Bal Celtique (FR) (Ballingarry (IRE)) Owner: Mrs Jane Williams Colours: ORANGE, BLACK star and star on cap.

Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Form: 3 Breeder: E.A.R.L. Haras du Mondant et al Sponsor: Culverhill Farm Racing TIMEFORM VIEW Authorized colt who made a promising start to his career when 9 lengths third of 10 to Salver in Exeter juvenile hurdle 31 days ago. Should progress but big chunk of improvement needed to get heavily involved here.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

3 BALBOA (GB) (11)

David Noonan

11 0

B g Mondialiste (IRE) - Reachforthestars (IRE) (Sea The Stars (IRE)) Owner: Mrs Kate Kenyon Colours: MAROON, WHITE hoops and armlets, Trainer: Anthony Charlton, Warminster quartered cap.

Breeder: Elwick Stud Form: 3212 CD

5

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair maiden on the Flat who got off the mark at third time of asking over hurdles when taking 7-runner juvenile over C&D (heavy) in October. Improved when 3 lengths second to An Bradan Feasa at Cheltenham 2 months later.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 125

4 HARSH (GB) (17)

Harry Reed

11 0

Gr g Dark Angel (IRE) - Andry Brusselles (Hurricane Run (IRE)) Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Colours: MAROON, WHITE star, armlets and star Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland on cap.

Breeder: Gigginstown House Stud Form: 31 TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful maiden on the Flat and built on his promising hurdle debut third when winning comfortably at Cork 15 days later. Capable of better but his jumping was a bit mixed at Cork and he’ll need to be slicker in that department to trouble Burdett Road.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

5 SALVER (FR) (31)

B g Motivator - Salve Evita (Monsun (GER)) Owner: Mr Keith Graves Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: Genets Srl Sponsor: Heart Of The South Bloodstock

11 0 Colours: BLACK, WHITE stars, WHITE sleeves, RED armlets, PINK cap.

Form: 11 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to very smart hurdler Saldier and looked a good prospect when winning juvenile hurdles in the mud at Warwick and Exeter last month. More to come for trainer who took this in 2021.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

34

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

Caoilin Quinn

6 SEAHOUSES (GB) (52)

11 0

B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Ceilidh House (Selkirk (USA)) Owner: Mr David Gibbons Colours: DARK GREEN, WHITE hoop, RED sleeves, Barry Brennan, Upper Lambourn Trainer: WHITE and DARK GREEN hooped cap.

Breeder: Lawn Stud Form: 5 Sponsor: K & M (Hauliers) Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful maiden on Flat (stays 2m) for Ralph Beckett. 11/1, seemed badly in need of the experience when distant fifth of 6 on his Huntingdon hurdle debut 52 days ago. Big outsider here.

Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

James Bowen

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 6 (EXACTA) Hood worn by No. 1.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER COMFORT ZONE (IRE) Age: 3 Weight: 11 0 Jonjo O’Neill Jr 10-11 (Joseph Patrick O’Brien) 9 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 1-2 Burdett Road (GB), 9-2 Harsh (GB), 10-1 Salver (FR), 14-1 Balboa (GB), 33-1 Authoceltic (FR), 300-1 Seahouses (GB) Race Summary: BURDETT ROAD looked very good at Cheltenham and should have too much for this opposition. With doubts about Harsh’s jumping it could be that Salver is in the one to give James Owen’s charge most to do.

1-2-3: 1.BURDETT ROAD 2.SALVER (FR) 3.HARSH

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

5

35

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED TAKE A PRICE ON YOUR HORSE AND IF THE STARTING PRICE IS BIGGER WE WILL PAY THE BIGGER ODDS.

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED: 18+. UK & ROI Customers only. Bet type restrictions apply. £50k offer cap daily per customer. From 8.00am on the day of event only. We pay bigger odds after deduction if Rule 4 applies. T&Cs apply. PLEASE BET RESPONSIBLY begambleaware.org - Need Help? Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133.

Sixth Race 2.50

3m 6f 130y

THE CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (PREMIER HANDICAP) (Run In Memory Of Kim Gingell) (GBB RACE) (Class 1) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £150000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £65370; Second £26835; Third £13425; Fourth £6705; Fifth £3360; Sixth £1680. (Penalty Value £85425) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 IWILLDOIT (GB) (46)

Age

st

lb

10 12 0

B g Flying Legend (USA) - Lyricist’s Dream (Dreams End) Owner: Diamond Racing Ltd Colours: BLACK, EMERALD GREEN triple Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff diamond, diamonds on sleeves, BLACK cap, Breeder: R. L. Brown EMERALD GREEN diamond.

Sponsor: Diamond Racing Ltd Form: 3/11/15-2 CD TIMEFORM VIEW Won this in 2021 and defied an absence of 13 months when following up in the Classic Chase at Warwick last winter. Solid reappearance second over hurdles at Aintree last month and this has presumably been the target. Player. Dylan Johnston (7) Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 153

2 COMPLETE UNKNOWN (IRE) (25)

7 11 13

B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Silver Stream (IRE) (Milan) Owner: JCG Chua & I Warwick Colours: RED, BLACK sleeves, RED spots.

Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Form: 1212-10 BF Breeder: Mr & Mrs A. Cox Sponsor: Chuanglee Cash & Carry Ltd, Deepbridge Capital Llp TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdler and quickly developed into a smart chaser, finishing second in 3m Aintree Grade 1 final start. Won over 2 1/2m on Newton Abbot reappearance but faded out of the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury since.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 152 (-1) Not sure he wants an extreme stamina test such as this.

3 THE BIG BREAKAWAY (IRE) (18)

Harry Cobden

8 11 8

Ch g Getaway (GER) - Princess Mairead (IRE) (Blueprint (IRE)) Owner: Eric Jones, Geoff Nicholas, John Romans Colours: RED, YELLOW triple diamond, Trainer: Joe Tizzard, Sherborne WHITE sleeves, RED armlets.

Breeder: William Mangan Form: 22PF-5P C BF Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up in this off 1lb higher last year but has completed on only one of his 4 outings since, running no sort of race in the Becher at Aintree latest. Hard to be confident about at present.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 147 (-3)

Adam Wedge

4 THE GALLOPING BEAR (GB) (284) 10 11 6

6

B g Shantou (USA) - Cheshire Kat (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Owner: Mr Adrian Paterson Colours: ROYAL BLUE, GOLD seams, BLUE cap, Trainer: Ben Clarke, Beaminster GOLD tassel.

Breeder: Goldford Stud Form: 1D/3F2PSponsor: Tote TIMEFORM VIEW Useful staying chaser. Might have hit the frame but for falling 4 out in this last year. Good second in Eider Chase at Newcastle next time. Has had wind surgery ahead of this reappearance. This a tough ask first time up. First-time visor replaces cheekpieces. STEWARDS NOTE: Sam Twiston-Davies Following its run on 18/3/2023 it was reported that the horse needed more testing conditions.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 145

5 NASSALAM (FR) (18)

6 11 6

Ch g Dream Well (FR) - Ramina (GER) (Shirocco (GER)) (in 4lb ex) Owner: John and Yvonne Stone Colours: WHITE, DARK GREEN hoops, WHITE Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham sleeves and cap.

Breeder: S.A.R.L. Genetique Obstacle Form: 6300-41 C Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Reacted very positively to refitted blinkers when an emphatic winner of the trial over 3m here 18 days ago, beating Wayfinder by 5 1/2 lengths but value for more like double the margin. Stamina is an unknown over 6f Caoilin Quinn (3) further but he’s weighted to have a big say under a 4lb penalty.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 141 (+8)

38

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

6 CHAMBARD (FR) (18)

11 11 5

B g Gris de Gris (IRE) - Regina Park (FR) (Cadoudal (FR)) (in 4lb ex) Owner: David & Carol Shaw Colours: DARK BLUE, YELLOW chevron, Venetia Williams, Hereford Trainer: YELLOW and DARK BLUE hooped sleeves, Breeder: A. Cypres, A. Maggiar & E. Roussel YELLOW cap.

Sponsor: Faucets Limited Form: PU44-21 TIMEFORM VIEW Ended 2021/22 campaign with success in the Kim Muir at the Cheltenham Festival. Disappointed last season but firmly back on track this time round, winning Becher at Aintree (heavy) 18 days ago. Might be Miss Lucy Turner (5) Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 140 (+9) vulnerable under a 4lb penalty here, though.

7 IRON BRIDGE (IRE) (26) B g Milan - Chit Chat (Bob Back (USA)) Owner: Hemmings Racing Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: Sean Murphy Sponsor: Trust Inns Limited

7 11 3 Colours: EMERALD GREEN and YELLOW (quartered), WHITE sleeves and cap.

Form: 15122-P

TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper/dual hurdle winner who took well to chasing last season, winning twice. Ran no sort of race on his 2 1/2m Newbury reappearance but this return to 3m+ will suit and he remains unexposed as a stayer.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 142

8 TRUCKERS LODGE (IRE) (18) B g Westerner - Galeacord (IRE) (Accordion) Owner: Gordon & Su Hall Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mrs Ann Hogan Sponsor: Morson Group

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

11 11 2

(in 4lb ex) Colours: EMERALD GREEN, ROYAL BLUE spots, halved sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap.

Form: 4501-B1 C

TIMEFORM VIEW This veteran is running in this for the fifth time (placed on 3 occasions) and showed he retains most of his ability when winning the London National at Sandown 18 days ago. Likely to be plugging on when others Freddie Gingell (5) have cried enough.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 137 (+4)

9 ONLY THE BOLD (IRE) (31)

8 10 10

B g Jeremy (USA) - Cloghoge Lady (IRE) (Presenting) Owner: ValueRacingClub.co.uk Colours: WHITE, BLACK epaulets, MAROON and Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington WHITE diabolo on sleeves, BLACK and MAROON Breeder: Mr F. Whelan quartered cap.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: 2/114-0P TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdles winner for Evan Williams and proved a different proposition over fences in headgear for present connections last term, scoring at Bangor and Hereford. Has disappointed in 2 outings back hurdling this season, though. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 26/11/2023 it was reported that the horse had an irregular heartbeat. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 135

Jack Tudor

10 AUTONOMOUS CLOUD (IRE) (31) 7 10 9

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - August Hill (IRE) (Presenting) (in 4lb ex) Owner: Mr Terry Warner & The McNeill Family Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, MAROON Trainer: Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham sleeves and cap.

Breeder: Liam Quinn Form: 2/2221-1 Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive young chaser who edged out Iron Bridge (Super Survivor third) in strong 3m Uttoxeter novice handicap on final start last season. Reappeared to win another 3m Uttoxeter handicap (heavy) a month ago and very much unexposed after only a handful of starts over fences.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 130 (+5)

11 ICEO MADRIK (FR) (26)

Paddy Brennan

5 10 5

6

B g Choeur du Nord (FR) - Sunday Madrik (FR) (Esprit du Nord (USA)) Owner: Prof. Caroline Tisdall Colours: DARK GREEN, RED cross belts, DARK Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington GREEN and BEIGE striped sleeves, DARK GREEN Breeder: E.A.R.L. Ecurie Les Boulaines & Isabelle cap, RED star.

Sponsor: W & S Recycling Form: UF2PP-0 TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser in France for David Cottin but he has offered little so far for this yard, including back hurdling on Newbury reappearance 26 days ago. Plenty to prove. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 130 (-3)

12 SUPER SURVIVOR (IRE) (36)

David Noonan

7 10 5

B g Shantou (USA) - All The Best Mate (IRE) (Alflora (IRE)) Owner: Neil Goulden, Kevin & Sue Hopgood Colours: WHITE and RED stripes, chevrons on Trainer: Jamie Snowden, Lambourn sleeves, RED cap.

Breeder: M. Sheehy Form: 21/213-2 C BF Sponsor: Betvictor TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner with a positive profile over fences, winning 3m novice handicap on this card a year ago.

Shaped well when second to stablemate Git Maker on 3m Lingfield return. Low-mileage improver for a trainer/jockey pairing which has already plundered one big handicap chase this winter.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 130 (+1)

Gavin Sheehan

39

13 AMATEUR (IRE) (178)

10 10 2

Ch g Giant’s Causeway (USA) - Adja (IRE) (Rock of Gibraltar (IRE)) Owner: Burnham P & D Ltd Colours: DARK BLUE and RED (halved), Trainer: John Flint, Bridgend DARK BLUE sleeves, WHITE cap.

Dayton Investments Ltd Breeder: Form: P6P3-10 C Sponsor: Burnham Plastering & Drylining Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Added to his good Ffos Las record with a win in May but off since a lesser run in the Summer Cup at Uttoxeter in July. Likely up against it in a race as competitive as this back from 6 months off.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 126

14 CHARLIE UBERALLES (GB) (46)

Connor Brace

7 10 2

Ch g Geordieland (FR) - Sovereignoftheseas (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mr G. Critchley Colours: ROYAL BLUE, ORANGE stars, Trainer: Dianne Sayer, Penrith WHITE sleeves and cap.

Breeder: Mrs A. M. L. Munnis Form: 21441-3 Sponsor: Tote

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual 3m chase winner in the first half of last season but not seen again until third in a 22.5f Kelso novice hurdle in November. Remains unexposed as a chaser but this will be a very different test to anything he’s Danny McMenamin faced previously.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 126

15 WAYFINDER (IRE) (18)

9 10 2

Br g Shantou (USA) - Sibury (IRE) (Overbury (IRE)) Owner: The Wayfinders Colours: ORANGE, RED, PURPLE & DARK BLUE Trainer: Rebecca Curtis, Newport spectrum, WHITE collar and sleeves and peak to cap.

Breeder: Mrs Rita Kent Form: P4P-3F2 C Sponsor: William Hill TIMEFORM VIEW Back on track this season after wind surgery, chasing home Nassalam in the trial here (3m, heavy) 18 days ago. Pulled up in this 12 months ago but can fare better this time round.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 125 (+2)

16 BLADE RUNNER (FR) (33)

7 10 2

17 MAX DYNAMO (GB) (38)

13 10 2

Lilly Pinchin

B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Cutting Edge (FR) (Kapgarde (FR)) Owner: Holman,Widdows,Banks,Lloyd Colours: YELLOW, ROYAL BLUE chevron, Trainer: Chris Gordon, Winchester chevrons on sleeves, striped cap.

Breeder: Nicolas Madamet & Ian Kellitt Form: 13-311P C Sponsor: Goodwin Racing Ltd, Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Prolific over fences, making it 5 wins from only 6 starts in this sphere at Plumpton in November.

Ran poorly over hurdles at Ascot since but better can be expected back over the larger obstacles.

Freddie Gordon (5) Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 124 (-2) B g Midnight Legend - Vivante (IRE) (Toulon) Owner: Mrs M. J. Wilson Trainer: Emma-Jane Bishop, Cheltenham Breeder: Mrs M. J. Wilson Sponsor: Andrew Coombs, Coombs Group

Colours: BLACK, WHITE spots, CERISE cap.

Form: 3P/160-2 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Veteran who made light of a 10-month absence to win here in February and added to his good record fresh when second in the Southern National at Fontwell on his reappearance last month. 7lb out of weights here, though.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 120

18 DOMAINE DE L’ISLE (FR) (14)

6

James Turner (7)

10 10 2

B g Network (GER) - Gratiene de L’Isle (FR) (Altayan) Owner: Mr L M Power and Mr Ian Hutchins Colours: BROWN, WHITE epaulets.

Trainer: Sean Curran, Swindon Form: 6014-PP CD Breeder: Mme Veronique Sayet

TIMEFORM VIEW Tumbled down the weights and finally took advantage when landing small-field marathon over C&D in March. That wasn’t a particularly strong race, though, and he’s pulled up both starts this season.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 119 (-2)

19 DIDERO VALLIS (FR) (12)

Ned Fox (5)

10 10 2

B g Poliglote - Oreade Vallis (FR) (April Night (FR)) Owner: Normans, Ramsay, Tufnell & Bishop Colours: LIGHT BLUE, RED star, armlets and star Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford on cap.

Breeder: Mr Andre Noel Dutertre Form: 55PP-30 Sponsor: Faucets Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser at his best. Disappointed last season but has posted 2 decent efforts in crosscountry events at Cheltenham this time round. Long way out of the handicap here, however.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 115

40

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

Charlie Deutsch

20 NOT SURE (IRE) (19)

7 10 2

Br g Presenting - Pink Mist (IRE) (Montelimar (USA)) Owner: Mr Will Roseff Colours: YELLOW, PURPLE star, PURPLE sleeves, Kerry Lee, Presteigne Trainer: YELLOW armlets, PURPLE cap.

Breeder: R. Tanner Form: 1313-13 Sponsor: Fitzdares Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Building up a solid record over fences, winning on 3m Wetherby reappearance and third of 10 at Sandown (3m, heavy) since. 12lb out of the handicap in this, though. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 115 (+1)

Richard Patrick

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 20 (EXACTA) Visor worn first time by No. 4. Blinkers worn by No. 3, 5, 8. Tongue Strap worn by No. 4, 9, 11.

Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 17. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 18.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 20. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 4.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER THE TWO AMIGOS Age: 10 Weight: 10 1 David Prichard 16-1 (Nicky Martin) 17 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 5-1 Super Survivor (IRE), 13-2 Nassalam (FR), Autonomous Cloud (IRE), 11-1 Iwilldoit (GB), Complete Unknown (IRE), 14-1 Chambard (FR), 16-1 Iron Bridge (IRE), 18-1 The Big Breakaway (IRE), Truckers Lodge (IRE), 20-1 The Galloping Bear (GB), 25-1 Wayfinder (IRE), 33-1 Only The Bold (IRE), 50-1 Blade Runner (FR), 66-1 Charlie Uberalles (GB), Didero Vallis (FR), Not Sure (IRE), 80-1 Max Dynamo (GB), 100-1 Amateur (IRE), 150-1 Iceo Madrik (FR), Domaine de L’Isle (FR) Race Summary: A chance is taken on NASSALAM’s stamina as he won the trial here earlier in the month with plenty in hand and looks well treated under a 4lb penalty. 2021 winner Iwilldoit looked as good as ever when second over hurdles at Aintree on his reappearance and this has presumably been the plan. Autonomous Cloud and Super Survivor are young staying chasers who likely have bigger performances in them and complete the shortlist.

1-2-3: 1.NASSALAM (FR) 2.IWILLDOIT 3.AUTONOMOUS CLOUD (IRE)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

6

41

Seventh Race 3.25

2m 11y

THE NEW BET-IN-RACE WITH CORAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (Class 3) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £12000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £4846; Second £2422; Third £1212; Fourth £606; Fifth £302. (Penalty Value £6337.20) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

Age

st

lb

1 WITNESS PROTECTION (IRE) (213) 10 12 2

B g Witness Box (USA) - Queen’s Exit (Exit To Nowhere (USA)) Owner: Foxtrot Racing Witness Protection Colours: LIGHT BLUE, WHITE epaulets, halved Trainer: Martin Keighley, Cheltenham sleeves, RED cap.

Breeder: Mr & Mrs James Hannon Form: 21/P4-6P CD Sponsor: Foxtrot Racing Syndicates TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner who made it third time lucky over fences over C&D in November 2021. Lightly raced since and shaped as if amiss when last seen at Uttoxeter (20f, good to soft) 7 months ago. Best watched given his profile. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 28/5/2023 it was reported that the jockey thought something was amiss.

Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 127

2 NOT AVAILABLE (IRE) (30)

Gavin Sheehan

8 12 1

B g Milan - Miss Arteea (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA)) Owner: Mr Tony Scrivin Colours: RED and BLACK stripes, RED sleeves, Trainer: Matt Sheppard, Ledbury WHITE cap.

Breeder: Cathal Ennis Form: 41-P605 CD Sponsor: Matt Sheppard Racing TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who hit the target 3 times last season, including when running away with a 5-runner C&D handicap in a first-time visor in April. However, subsequently pulled up at Kempton and this season’s efforts with cheekpieces refitted have not been inspiring. Blinkers back on. STEWARDS Sam Twiston-Davies Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 126 NOTE: Following its run on 27/11/2023 it was reported that the horse was never travelling.

3 ZAMBEZI FIX (FR) (33)

8 11 9

Gr g Zambezi Sun - Lady Fix (FR) (Turgeon (USA)) Owner: Mr Gethyn Mills & Mr B. J. Llewellyn Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE stars, RED sleeves, Trainer: Bernard Llewellyn, Bargoed WHITE stars, RED cap, WHITE star.

Breeder: Mr Olivier Tricot & Mr Max Hennau Form: 364-324 CD TIMEFORM VIEW Notched second success over hurdles when landing handicap here in February. Creditable second at Lingfield (2m, good to soft) last month but turned in a rare below-par effort in a better race at Ascot 10 Robert Williams (3) days later. Attentions now turned back to the larger obstacles.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 120

4 AGGAGIO (FR) (113)

B g Born To Sea (IRE) - Ravage (Verglas (IRE)) Owner: Aura Racing Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: S.C.E.A. Ecurie Michel Sardou Sponsor: K M Elite Products Ltd

7

5 11 6 Colours: LIGHT GREEN, BLACK diamond, BLACK sleeves, LIGHT GREEN armlets, LIGHT GREEN cap, BLACK star.

Form: 4/61531- D

TIMEFORM VIEW Likeable dual-purpose performer who was in good form on the level during the summer, good third at Goodwood (2m) in September. Not an obvious one on pedigree for this discipline but certainly not dismissed for good yard. STEWARDS NOTE: Following Caoilin Quinn (3) its run on 5/9/2023 it was reported that the horse suffered post-race heat stress.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 117

5 SHOWBUSINESS (FR) (33)

B g Camelot - Indigo (FR) (Falco (USA)) Owner: Mr Gethyn Mills Trainer: Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Breeder: S.C.P. Ecurie Du Sud

6 11 5

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE seams, RED sleeves, WHITE stars, WHITE cap.

Form: 62/31-52 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Belatedly off the mark over hurdles at Punchestown in May 2022 for Gordon Elliott. Well held at Ffos Las 12 months later on yard debut but produced an encouraging chasing debut back from another lay-off when runner-up over C&D last month. Pulled clear of the rest that day and can figure.

STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 24/11/2023 it was reported that the horse hung left-handed.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 116

42

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

Alan Johns

6 GREENROCK ABBEY (IRE) (19)

7 11 2

Ch g El Salvador (IRE) - Aos Dana (IRE) (Fourstars Allstar (USA)) Owner: R L Baker & R Lee Colours: WHITE, DARK BLUE epaulets, Kerry Lee, Presteigne Trainer: chevrons on sleeves, WHITE cap, DARK BLUE star.

Breeder: Mark Slevin Form: 31233-2 D Sponsor: Fitzdares Limited TIMEFORM VIEW Took well to fences last season, winning 2 of his 6 starts. Made an encouraging return when runner-up at Sandown (15.4f, soft) earlier this month and every chance that will have blown away any cobwebs.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 113 Leading claims

7 YOU SAY NOTHING (IRE) (30)

Richard Patrick

8 11 2

B g Epaulette (AUS) - Joyride (GER) (Samum (GER)) Owner: Chiefs and a Dragon Colours: BLACK, BEIGE stars on sleeves, RED Trainer: Christian Williams, Bridgend cap.

Breeder: P. Casey Form: 2/515-1F D Sponsor: Naf TIMEFORM VIEW Limited to just 4 starts last term but won 2 of those, including a 2m handicap at Ffos Las (soft) in May. Shaped as if as good as ever after 7 months off before getting tired/falling late at Ludlow last month and he could get involved provided that tumble hasn’t left a mark.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 113

8 WALKINTHEWOODS (IRE) (27)

Jack Tudor

6 10 7

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Mercy Mission (Karinga Bay) Owner: Vale Racing 1 Colours: DARK BLUE, YELLOW chevron.

Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Form: 24-1225 CD BF Breeder: Liam Norris Sponsor: Tote TIMEFORM VIEW Off the mark over timber at this track (2m) in October 2022 and doubled his tally at Ffos Las in May. Narrowly denied on first 2 starts back this term (including at Ffos Las on chase bow last month) but probably found the race coming too soon at Taunton 8 days later. Back down to 2m. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 30/11/2023 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 104

Adam Wedge

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 8 (EXACTA) Tongue Strap worn by No. 5. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 2. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 6.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER SUPER SURVIVOR (IRE) Age: 6 Weight: 10 9 Gavin Sheehan 85-40 (Jamie Snowden) 6 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 7-2 Greenrock Abbey (IRE), 4-1 Aggagio (FR), 9-2 Showbusiness (FR), 8-1 Zambezi Fix (FR), Walkinthewoods (IRE), 10-1 Witness Protection (IRE), 14-1 Not Available (IRE), 18-1 You Say Nothing (IRE) Race Summary: Having taken well to fences last season, GREENROCK ABBEY made a very encouraging return to action when finishing runner-up at Sandown earlier this month, and with that outing sure to have blown away any cobwebs, Kerry Lee’s 7-y-o is fancied to notch a third victory over the larger obstacles. You Say Nothing took a heavy fall late at Ludlow last month, but he rates a big threat with that run under his belt, with chasing-debutant Aggagio rounding off the shortlist.

1-2-3: 1.GREENROCK ABBEY (IRE) 2.YOU SAY NOTHING (IRE) 3.AGGAGIO (FR)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

43

7

Eighth Race 3.55

2m 11y

THE CORAL COMMITTED TO SAFER GAMBLING OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) (Class 3) for four and five yrs old

Total prize fund £10000

Owners Prize Money. Winner £4173; Second £2087; Third £1043; Fourth £522.

(Penalty Value £5446) For conditions of this race see page 47

No Horse

1 KAP BOY (FR) (74)

Age

st

lb

4 11 6

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Bumble (FR) (Pistolet Bleu (IRE)) Owner: Mrs Diana L. Whateley Colours: DARK BLUE, LIGHT BLUE hoop, checked Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat sleeves and cap.

Breeder: Mr H. Lair, Mr J. Lair & Mr F. Champion Form: 1 CD Sponsor: Morson Group TIMEFORM VIEW €160,000 son of Kapgarde who overcame inexperience to make a winning debut in a 4-runner C&D bumper (heavy) in October. A 6lb penalty is unlikely to prevent him making a bold bid for the champion trainer.

Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

2 ROCKING MAN (FR) (49)

Harry Cobden

4 11 6

B g Manatee - Rockburn (FR) (Saint des Saints (FR)) Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE diabolo, Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff hooped sleeves and cap.

Breeder: E.A.R.L. Haras Du Mondant Form: 1 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Strong in the betting and looked a useful prospect when scoring on C&D debut (heavy) in November. Can make it 2-2.

Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating - Sam Twiston-Davies

3 DIAGON ALLEY (IRE) (53)

4 11 2

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Whizzzey Rascal (IRE) (Robin des Pres (FR)) Owner: Mrs Kate Kenyon Colours: MAROON, WHITE hoops and armlets, Trainer: Syd Hosie, Sherborne quartered cap.

Breeder: Richard Gallagher Form: 2 Sponsor: Sherborne Utilities Ltd TIMEFORM VIEW Cost £140,000 after finishing second in an Irish point in November and it’ll be interesting to see what the betting makes of him.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

4 LEECH (FR) (-)

Micheal Nolan

4 11 2

B g Masked Marvel - Lichtspiel (GER) (Areion (GER)) Owner: Mr David M. Williams Colours: LIGHT BLUE, PINK star, WHITE cap.

Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Form: Breeder: S.C.E.A. Ecurie Haras Des Marais Sponsor: Tote TIMEFORM VIEW €48,000 Masked Marvel gelding. Dam, 1m winner in Germany, half-sister to smart hurdler (stayed 19f) Local Hero. His stable has had a few bumper winners lately so this one needs a betting check.

Mr Lewis Gordon (7) Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

5 QUEENSBURY BOY (IRE) (297)

8

4 11 2

Br g Doyen (IRE) - Queens Wild (IRE) (Westerner) Owner: Mr David Maxwell Colours: RED, BROWN sleeves and cap.

Trainer: Harry Derham, Newbury Form: 1Breeder: R. Guiry Sponsor: The Fitzdares Club TIMEFORM VIEW £130,000 purchase after winning an Irish point in March. The runner-up in that race was Quebecois who made a winning bumper debut for Paul Nicholls at Exeter a couple of weeks ago. Tongue tied. Likely type.

Mr David Maxwell (3) Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

44

www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 5 (EXACTA) Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 5.

The Result 1st ........................................................................................

2nd

........................................................................................................

3rd ........................................................................................

4th

........................................................................................................

Distances ..................................../ ..........................................

Time ........................................................................................................

LAST YEARS WINNER FINGLE BRIDGE (IRE) Age: 4 Weight: 11 2 A P Heskin 4-1 (Olly Murphy) 10 ran

PLAY SMARTER Betting Forecast: 5-4 Rocking Man (FR), 5-2 Kap Boy (FR), 11-2 Queensbury Boy (IRE), 10-1 Leech (FR), 14-1 Diagon Alley (IRE) Race Summary: A small but interesting line-up for this concluding bumper. ROCKING MAN can see off fellow C&D debut scorer Kap Boy but the rules newcomers all have something to recommend them on paper, notably Queensbury Boy, who had a recent bumper winner behind in second when winning his sole point back in March.

1-2-3: 1.ROCKING MAN (FR) 2.KAP BOY (FR) 3.QUEENSBURY BOY (IRE)

FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

THE REUBEN FOUNDATION The Reuben Foundation, a charitable organisation set up by the owners of the Arena Racing Company Simon and David Reuben, have donated £3,000 to the Welsh charity, Amser Justin time, supported by today’s singer of the Welsh National Anthem, Shan Cothi. www.amserjustintime.org

8

45

TODAY’S RACE CONDITIONS First Race 12.00 - THE PLAY CORAL RACING-SUPER-SERIES FOR FREE MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4520 to the winning horse The second to receive £2082, the third £1040 and the fourth £521. for maiden four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £41 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st 4lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 23 entries at £41. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3464; Second £1732; Third £866; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) SEE PAGE 16 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 12.30 - THE CORAL GET CLOSER TO THE ACTION NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4520 to the winning horse The second to receive £2082, the third £1040 and the fourth £521. for novice four yrs old and upwards, which have not won more than two hurdle races. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £41 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th.

Weights: 11st each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 7lb Of 2 hurdle races 12lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 27 entries at £41. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £3464; Second £1732; Third £866; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) SEE PAGE 24 FOR THIS RACE. Third Race 1.05 - THE CORAL BEST ODDS GUARANTEED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £18210 to the winning horse The second to receive £8372, the third £4186 and the fourth £2093. for four yrs old and upwards. £175 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £35 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £140 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after December 16th, 2023, for each steeple chase won 7lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to 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 9 entries, 3 at £35 and 6 at £175. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money.

Winner £13913; Second £6955; Third £3479; Fourth £1740. (Penalty Value £18210.50) SEE PAGE 28 FOR THIS RACE. Fourth Race 1.40 - THE CORAL RACING CLUB JOIN FOR FREE HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15609 to the winning horse The second to receive £7176, the third £3588, the fourth £1794, the fifth £897 and the sixth £447. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-145 (also open to such horses rated 146 and 147 - see Standard Conditions). £150 stake if the horse is rated 119 or higher, or £30 stake if the horse is rated 118 or lower with £120 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after December 16th, 2023, for each hurdle race won 7lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to 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 14 entries, 1 at £30 and 13 at £150. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money.

Winner £11925; Second £5961; Third £2982; Fourth £1491; Fifth £744; Sixth £372. (Penalty Value £15609) Weights raised 11lbs and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 30 FOR THIS RACE. Fifth Race 2.10 - THE CORAL FINALE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £47552 to the winning horse The second to receive £17808, the third £8896 and the fourth £4440. for juvenile three yrs old. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £400 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 2 weightfor-age or Class 1 handicap hurdle race 3lb Of a Class 1 weight-for-age hurdle race 5lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will provide a prize to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out in this race. The British Horseracing Authority’s Development Fund has generously contributed £20000 towards the prize money for this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 7 entries at £400.

- Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £36496; Second £14920; Third £7456; Fourth £3728. (Penalty Value £47552) A SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 2.50 - THE CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (Run In Memory Of Kim Gingell) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £85425 to the winning horse The second to receive £32055, the third £16050, the fourth £7995, the fifth £4020 and the sixth £2010. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, November 14th and pay £150 stake, Scratch by noon, December 5th or pay £250, Confirm by noon, December 21st and pay £350, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after November 19th, 2023, a winner of a steeple chase 4lb Of 2 steeple chases 7lb (No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st). Welsh Grand National Perpetual Challenge Trophy to be held by the winning owner until 1st December, 2024. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday, after Closing may be taken into account. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Horses will be led past the stands before cantering to the start. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 59 entries, 17 at £150, 20 at £400, 22 at £750. Closed November 14th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £65370; Second £26835; Third £13425; Fourth £6705; Fifth £3360; Sixth £1680. (Penalty Value £85425) SEE PAGE 38 FOR THIS RACE. Seventh Race 3.25 - THE NEW BET-IN-RACE WITH CORAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £6337 to the winning horse The second to receive £2916, the third £1458, the fourth £729 and the fifth £363. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-125 (also open to such horses rated 126 and 127 - see Standard Conditions). £60 stake if the horse is rated 99 or higher, or £12 stake if the horse is rated 98 or lower with £48 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after December 16th, 2023, for each steeple chase won 7lb. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey. In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 13 entries, at £60. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4847; Second £2423; Third £1212; Fourth £606; Fifth £302. (Penalty Value £6337.20) SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE. Eighth Race 3.55 - THE CORAL COMMITTED TO SAFER GAMBLING OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 3) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £5446 to the winning horse The second to receive £2509, the third £1254 and the fourth £628. 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, December 21st and pay £50 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st 2lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a race 4lb Of 2 races 7lb. The Riders’ Allowances under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code may be claimed in this race. Corals have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the winning owner. In addition they will present a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour Declarations apply to this race) 15 entries at £50. - Closed December 21st, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4173; Second £2087; Third £1043; Fourth £522. (Penalty Value £5446) SEE PAGE 44 FOR THIS RACE.

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED TAKE A PRICE ON YOUR HORSE AND IF THE STARTING PRICE IS BIGGER WE WILL PAY THE BIGGER ODDS.

BEST ODDS GUARANTEED: 18+. UK & ROI Customers only. Bet type restrictions apply. £50k offer cap daily per customer. From 8.00am on the day of event only. We pay bigger odds after deduction if Rule 4 applies. T&Cs apply. PLEASE BET RESPONSIBLY begambleaware.org - Need Help? Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 802 0133.