Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide 2024 - Review

REVIEW

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL BETTING GUIDE 20 24

Introduction PAUL FERGUSON

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2024

AS with last year, rather than simply highlighting eye-catchers ahead of Aintree and Punchestown, I have taken a detailed look back at all 27 races of this year’s Cheltenham Festival, for this review

The meeting was once again dominated by Willie Mullins, whose nine winners included a first Champion Hurdle for State Man – winner of the 2022 County Hurdle – and a second Gold Cup for Galopin des Champs, who also won a handicap hurdle at the meeting as a novice

Mullins reached the remarkable 100 Cheltenham Festival winners marker, when son Patrick partnered Jasmin de Vaux to victory in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper, a race which the trainer has won more than any other at the fixture. The five-year-old provided him with a 13th victory in the concluding race on day two, whilst Ballyburn (Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle) and Fact To File (Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase) declared further warnings towards future top-level, open-company success by winning the first two races on the card

Dan Skelton saddled four winners, with Grey Dawning’s Turners success and Protektorat’s victory

in the Ryanair supplementing the handicap double from the previous day. As a result, Skelton usurped his former boss Paul Nicholls at the top of the table for the trainers’ championship, which is sure to set-up a fascinating end to the season between the pair

The form of the Nicky Henderson stable was one downside of the week and it resulted in several of his high-profile runners – Jonbon, Sir Gino and Shishkin the standout trio – being pulled-out It is hoped that his form takes an upward turn in the coming weeks, which could result in a strong team being sent to Aintree.

Talking of Aintree, last year’s Grand National winner Corach Rambler ran a huge race to finish third in the Gold Cup and was consequently cut to 6-1 (generally now a 5-1 shot) to retain his crown on Saturday 13th April.

With Fairyhouse, Aintree and Punchestown still to come, there is plenty to look forward to in the concluding weeks of the season, after which I will be starting work on Jumpers To Follow 2024-2025 As ever, I hope you find this mini-publication of use. Paul.

TUESDAY 12TH MARCH Day One

SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE

WITH Ballyburn running in the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle, this year’s Supreme had an open feel to it and his stable-mate Tullyhill was sent off favourite under Paul Townend Racing enthusiastically on the front-end, he jumped better than he had done previously, but was readily outpaced when challenged on the run to the final flight. The winner Slade Steel took up the running at this point and having gotten in tight, was overtaken by Mystical Power, who went a length up. Lugging in behind the eventual winner, the runner-up didn’t look as resolute as Rachael Blackmore’s mount, who stays further and saw it out really well to win by 1½ lengths. He looks a high-class prospect for fences next season, but will presumably be considered for the Punchestown Festival, where he could renew rivalry with Ballyburn, as he might need 2m4f around a sharper track and on likely better ground. As for the runner-up, he will likely be suited by the speedier test at Punchestown, or possibly the flatter track at Aintree, although I did feel that he had every chance to win this race and didn't manage to do so, the ground probably softer than ideal in his defence. Perhaps the owners of Slade Steel will also consider a trip to Aintree – with them having taken last year’s Mersey Novices’ Hurdle with Irish Point – as Henry de Bromhead had been vocal in his desire to avoid Ballyburn in the build-up to Cheltenham

In behind, Firefox travelled well then stayed-on after being out-paced, whilst similar comments apply to Asian Master and both should make fine novice chasers next season Mistergif was probably the biggest eye-catcher, as he looked set to finish third at the final flight, before tiring in the closing stages, having raced keenly He had won a Limerick maiden on heavy ground the time before, so this was a big step in the right direction and he is likely to be considered for the 2m novice hurdles at Punchestown, both the Grade 1 and the non-Graded contest, a race which the same connections won with El Fabiolo in 2022

Jeriko du Reponet was a disappointment, failing to travel and eventually being pulled-up before the final flight. As for the runner-up, he will likely be suited by the speedier test at Punchestown, or possibly the flatter track at Aintree, although I did feel that he had every chance to win this race and didn't manage to do so. On a positive note, he did saddle a winner with his first runner after the Cheltenham Festival, with Persian Time successful at Kempton (Saturday 16th March)

ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY

HEAVILY-SUPPORTED in the market, despite his disappointing run at the Dublin Racing Festival, Gaelic Warrior successfully dropped in distance to run out a thoroughly convincing winner of the Arkle, in a first-time hood Given a confident ride by Paul Townend, the winner jumped straighter than many would have envisaged and although he was passed by Found A Fifty coming down the hill, Townend exuded confidence, as he angled him out on the run to two out and following a good jump there, the race looked all over. The winner looked to hold a class edge on the field and despite those fears about him racing on a left-handed track and dropping in trip, he stamped his authority on what looked to be no more than an average Arkle field. He holds an entry in the WillowWarm Gold Cup at Fairyhouse on Easter Sunday, whilst Punchestown – where he would presumably remain over the minimum trip – would be the other option if Fairyhouse were to come too soon.

Runner-up Found A Fifty reversed Irish Arkle form with Il Etait Temps and should appreciate going back up in distance, so might be one for the Manifesto at Aintree (also holds an entry in the WillowWarm Gold Cup) with Gordon Elliott not averse to sending a strong team to Liverpool. Indeed, Found A Fifty ran in the Top Novices’ Hurdle at last year’s fixture And, further down the field, JPR One would be another to consider on better ground at Aintree, as he struggled in the conditions

ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE

WELL-POSITIONED throughout, the novice Chianti Classico ran out a 4½-length winner of the opening handicap of the week Jumping well under David Bass, the son of Shantou travelled well and in truth, it all seemed quite straightforward for the lightly-raced seven-year-old Landing a little steeply at the final fence was the only real fright he gave to his supporters and he was well on top at the line, successful from a mark of 143. He had a record of 3-4 over hurdles last season and has now replicated that as a novice chaser, and having been put up 11lbs by the handicapper, he could now be upped in class for the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree. Soft ground seems to suit, but he did beat Stumptown (pulled-up in this race) in a Point-to-Point on decent ground and has five times won on good-to-

soft (or quicker) ground, so spring-like conditions shouldn’t be too concerning. He looks to be thoroughly progressive and if we don’t see him again this season, something like the Coral Gold Cup would appeal as a likely early-season target next winter

Runner-up Twig was never too far from the pace and ran with credit given that he appreciates a sounder surface, whilst Meetingofthewaters (3rd) came from off the pace to hit the frame and is now eligible to run in the Grand National. He shapes like the marathon trip will suit, provided that his jockey can switch him off in the early part of the race and is a definite contender for the Aintree feature.

CHAMPION HURDLE

WITH last year’s winner a notable absentee, State Man was sent off at 2-5 to go one place better than in 2023 and those who took the short odds didn’t really have a moment’s worry, as Willie Mullins’ chestnut travelled with ease under (again) a confident Paul Townend Very much the finished article and a hugely professional Grade 1 performer, he had the run of the race and took a lead to shortly before the last. Still on the bridle, he was asked to pick up on the run-in and comfortably beat Irish Point, who was dropping in trip. Whilst it wasn’t an explosive performance that many would have wanted to see, it was controlled and he confirmed his dominance over the remainder of the division, with Constitution Hill on the side-lines Stepping up to 2m4f at Aintree wouldn’t be an inconvenience, but Willie Mullins has saved Impaire et Passe for the Aintree Hurdle, so State Man will almost certainly return to Punchestown.

Irish Point ran well in second and would be another possible for Aintree, although Robcour has Bob Olinger for the Aintree Hurdle, so it could be that he reverts to 3m to contest either the Liverpool Hurdle or the Champion Stayers Hurdle at Punchestown. The grey will certainly appreciate going further once again and is an obvious contender for next year’s Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham In finishing third, Luccia was the best of the Nicky Henderson runners on the opening day, whilst stable-mate Iberico Lord (supplemented for the race) was another to be pulled-up. Luccia was put up 9lbs (149) by the handicapper for this career-best effort and is another who is reportedly being considered for the Aintree Hurdle, where she will be attempting the trip for the very first time.

DAVID NICHOLSON MARES’ HURDLE

WILLIE MULLINS and Paul Townend completed a Grade 1 treble on the opening day, as Lossiemouth

also justified odds-on favouritism in the Mares’ Hurdle, winning with ease from three Henry de Bromhead-trained mares. Stepping up to an intermediate trip for the first time, last year’s Triumph Hurdle winner settled well, initially in mid-field, before Townend reined her back and she had just a couple behind her with a circuit to run Besides from diving at one flight down the far side, the race went smoothly for the market leader who eased into third off the home bend Travelling much the best, she sauntered clear after the last to win by an easy 3 lengths, with Telmesomethinggirl 9½ lengths clear of the remainder She will likely be campaigned as a Champion Hurdle contender next season, before which a trip to Punchestown seems likely Unbeaten in three starts at Cheltenham, the daughter of Great Pretender looks to be a top-class mare and will be a fascinating contender in open Grade 1s, in receipt of that all-important sex-allowance. The runner-up ran well and is another who boasts fine Cheltenham form, having won the Dawn Run three years ago and she was travelling well when being broughtdown in this race the following year. She was the only mare to make a race of it with the winner and was clear second-best. In the short-term, I would expect Lossiemouth to remain against her own sex at the Punchestown Festival, although a clash with stable-mate State Man would be a much more exciting (and sadly, less likely) spectacle.

LOSSIEMOUTH

BOODLES JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE

ANTE-POST favourite for long parts of the season, Lark In The Mornin provided Joseph O’Brien with a second win in the ‘Fred Winter’ since 2019, despite drifting on the day, due to the heavy ground Kept wide and ridden with restraint by J J Slevin, he made an error at the flight at the top of the hill, but soon made up ground and swept to the lead off the home bend. Quickening into the final flight, he edged over to the stands’ side rail but was always in control and scored by 2 lengths at the line. On better ground, he would likely have run out an even more impressive winner and should now be expected to progress from this His I.H.R.B. Rating went up to 10lbs (130) so it will be interesting to see what route his connections opt to take

Further back, An Bradan Feasa (8th) and Bright Legend (11th) ran better than the bare form, with both travelling powerfully for a long way. The latter was free in the early part of the race and should be given another chance, judged on how he moved for a long way, whilst the former was dropped 3lbs to a mark of 123.

NATIONAL HUNT CHASE

THE market was dominated by the front two, but it turned into a one-horse race with Corbetts Cross running out a dominant 17-length winner under Derek O’Connor. Jumping more economically than he had done earlier in the season (still not totally foot-perfect), he quickened up well on the run to two out and the race was over in between the final two fences, as a result He jumped those last two fences really well and powered clear, showing a turn of foot that the opposition couldn’t live with. It will be interesting to see if he clashes with the same owner’s Fact Or File at the Punchestown Festival, or whether one of the pair is considered for the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree. At this stage, he would look to be a potential Gold Cup horse next season, although his jumping will need to continue to improve as he enters open company.

Runner-up Embassy Gardens had jumped well in winning both starts in Ireland, but wasn’t as fluent here, with a serious error two out preventing him from coming clear of the remainder He should improve for the experience, but is likely to struggle in open Grade 1 company on this evidence. Perhaps, the Coral Gold Cup would be a suitable early-season target during the 20224-2025 campaign.

WEDNESDAY 13TH MARCH Day Two

GALLAGHER NOVICES’ HURDLE

WILLIE MULLINS saddled five of the seven runners and Ballyburn led home a 1-2-3-4-5 for the all-conquering trainer, with the six-year-old putting up a high-class performance to run out an impressive 13-length winner. Despite racing keenly early-on and carrying his head distinctively low, the longer trip didn’t pose any problems to the well-bred son of Flemensfirth, who jumped really well throughout. Sitting in second for the most part, he took up the running off the home bend and without having to be asked any sort of serious question, came home in splendid isolation It was a very good performance and he remains a top-class prospect for the future, although quite what this form will amount to remains to be seen. Mullins was talking of a possible Champion Hurdle bid next year, but he has State Man and Lossiemouth for that division and Ballyburn is bred to be a staying chaser, so it is hoped that he is sent chasing in the autumn. Beforehand, he is likely to head to the Punchestown Festival – where he beat Dancing City and Slade Steel in a bumper last year – and he will, no doubt,

be very difficult to beat in the Grade 1 novice hurdle over 2m4f (likely to be entered in the 2m race, too) He was handed a revised I.H.R.B. Rating of 163 on the back of this success

Mercurey (4th) ran well for a long way from the front and should make up into a smart staying novice chaser next season, whilst Ile Atlantique (3rd) is another future chaser on looks Dropping back to the minimum trip and allowing him to bowl along might be the way to go, moving forward. Runner-up Jimmy du Seuil was the one who took a huge step forward – having only won a 2m maiden at Clonmel on his previous start – and the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel Hurdle (a race for those who have won just one hurdle race) would appeal as a likely target at the Punchestown Festival. That race will also be an option for Predators Gold (5th), although he was a shade disappointing here, having twice previously finished second in Grade 1 company.

In terms of the bigger picture, it was quite disappointing that only two horses – from Britain or Ireland – were deemed good enough to take on the Mullins-trained quintet.

BROWN ADVISORY NOVICES’ CHASE

THE vibes ahead of the meeting had been extremely strong for Fact To File and he was backed accordingly on the day, sent off at 8-13 in what appeared to be a relatively competitive renewal (despite the small field). Despite jumping to his right at times and appearing to rush at the odd fence in the early part of the race, the imposing son of Poliglote warmed to the task and jumped well during the second half of the race, as he eased closer under Mark Walsh. Seemingly travelling comfortably as the field came down the hill, he (just about) took off in front two out and following another good leap at the last, eased clear to win by a cosy 3¾ lengths. A likely Gold Cup contender in 2025, I suspect that he will head to the Punchestown Festival for the 3m novice chase, although as touched upon when reviewing the National Hunt Chase, it should be remembered that JP McManus also owns Corbetts Cross and one of the pair might well be considered for Aintree. Given that Fact To File shows a tendency to shift to his right at times, perhaps Punchestown would be the more sensible option for him.

Monty’s Star ran really well in second on what was just his third chase start and although he was no match for the winner on the day, Henry de Bromhead’s seven-year-old remains a smart prospect in his own right and was further evidence that the stable again had their runners in rude health for this fixture He kept on well to beat the remainder, with Giovinco finishing third for Lucinda Russell and Stephen Mulqueen This was the sixth race of a busy campaign and having been held-up, he made an eye-catching move coming down the hill Not short of pace, he looks sure to be well-suited by the track at Aintree provided that it isn’t one race too many, given that it will be his seventh start of the season Eventually pulled-up, Stay Away Fay reportedly scoped dirty after the race and also lost a front shoe

CORAL CUP HANDICAP HURDLE

BACK down to the very same mark from which he had won the race in 2023, Langer Dan had been well-beaten in four starts this season but bounced back to form at a meeting at which he boasts a strong record. Up 10lbs (151), it will be interesting to see if he heads to Aintree to contest the 2m4f handicap, a race which he won two years ago.

Runner-up Ballyadam travelled really well under top-weight for Rachael Blackmore, whilst Lucky Place (4th) moved well on the wide outside and given the form of the Henderson stable, his effort can probably be marked up. Likewise, stable-mate

Doddiethegreat (12th) moved well to two out and is sure to improve once the yard comes through their current lean spell. His handicap mark was left unchanged, whilst Lucky Place was put up 3lbs to 140.

QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE

THE feature on day two was dealt a huge blow on the morning of the race, when Nicky Henderson declared Jonbon a non-runner, then hot-favourite El Fabiolo made a serious error at the fifth fence, which resulted in him pulling-up immediately. Bizarrely, he became the sixth beaten odds-on favourite in the race in the past nine years, in a race which – quite often in recent years – has failed to deliver on what was expected beforehand

With those two out of the way, Captain Guinness stepped up to the plate to win a first Grade 1 (on his 14th start at the top level) and create further history for his jockey Rachael Blackmore, who became the first female to ride the winner of the race In fairness, he had jumped well (better than El Fabiolo) to the point that the favourite exited the race and once Edwardstone came off the bridle after three out, there looked to be an air of inevitability about the outcome, as Captain Guinness took over. Seemingly idling a little late-on, he held on to beat Gentleman de Mee by 1½ lengths, providing Henry de Bromhead with a fourth Queen Mother since 2011

As for El Fabiolo, he had raced keenly into the first fence (got in tight) and wasn’t overly fluent at three and four, before diving at the fifth fence. He actually did well to stand up and Paul Townend had little choice but to pull-up last year’s Arkle winner Reported to have been in good shape the following morning, it will be interesting to see if he is considered for the Melling Chase at Aintree – where he could finally clash with Jonbon this season (depending on whether Nicky Henderson’s horses turn the corner in the coming weeks) – or he could wait for the opening day of the Punchestown Festival

GLENFARCLAS CROSS-COUNTRY CHASE

THIS race was abandoned due to a waterlogged course.

GRAND ANNUAL HANDICAP CHASE

DAN and Harry Skelton completed a handicap double of the day, as Unexpected Party beat the lightly-raced novice Libberty Hunter by 2¼ lengths. Ridden positively and out wide, the grey appreciated coming back in distance and was 8lbs lower than his career-high mark from earlier in the season Sent for home off the home bend,

he stayed strongly and was helped by a fine jump at the last. A course winner earlier in the season, Libberty Hunter ran really well in second, on what was just his fourth chase start. Still unexposed and improving, he would be a possible for the Red Rum at Aintree, with the pair having been put up 8lbs and 5lbs, respectively Interestingly, Evan Williams has stated that he will also be considered for the Maghull Novices’ Chase on Grand National day. Further back, Sa Fureur (4th) was left behind by the front three, but shaped well for a long way and left the impression that he will appreciate stepping up to an intermediate trip Campaigned exclusively over 2m-2m1f as a novice chaser, he did win a Grade 3 novice hurdle on good ground over 2m4½f last February and stepping up in distance could bring about further improvement

WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER

IN WINNING the Champion Bumper for a record-stretching 13th time, Willie Mullins recorded a 100th Cheltenham Festival winner in the concluding race on day two and the fact that Jasmin de Vaux was ridden by his son Patrick was rather fitting. Mullins and Gordon Elliott saddled the first seven

home between them, but it was the Simon Munir and Isaac Souede-owned five-year-old who came out on top, coming from off the pace to win by the best part of 2 lengths. Kept wide and out of trouble, he was widest of all into the home straight and he showed a fine attitude to wear down the placed horses, pulling clear inside the final 100 yards. He will presumably head to Punchestown in an attempt to complete a Grade 1 double and looking ahead to next season, it will be interesting to see if he develops physically, as he wouldn’t be the most imposing at present.

Despite being weak in the market, Romeo Coolio ran a huge race in second, whilst his more experienced stable-mate Jalon d’Oudairies (3rd) gives the form a solid feel, certainly in terms of the front three. The runner-up travelled noticeably well throughout and should make up into a high-class novice hurdler next season Further back, Fleur Au Fusil (7th) fared best of the mares, whilst Royal Infantry (8th) and Union Avenue (9th) were the only British-trained runners among the first 10 home. With a few notable absentees – Jeroboam Machin, Brechin Castle and Let It Rain to name three – time will tell as to whether this year’s renewal is up to scratch with previous years.

JASMIN DE VAUX (9)

THURSDAY 14TH MARCH Day Three

TURNERS NOVICES’ CHASE

A GRADE 1 which was dominated by British-trained horses and was fought out by old adversaries Grey Dawning and Ginny’s Destiny. Having beaten him over hurdles last season and been narrowly denied by Paul Nicholls’ runner earlier in the season – when conceding 3lbs to the winner and having made a serious mistake two out – a strong case could be made for Grey Dawning to reverse the form and that he did, providing Dan and Harry Skelton with the first leg of a double (for the second successive day) The pair jumped well and drew clear on the run to two out, where Grey Dawning got the better jump and from there, the strong stayer kept-on well. He will have little trouble in going back up to 3m and that is a possibility at Aintree, where the Mildmay Novices’ Chase would appeal as a likely end-of-season target. It is worth noting that he was 0-2 at Aintree over hurdles and is another novice who has enjoyed a busy season, something that should be commended in this day and age. Looking further ahead, the Betfair Chase would be the obvious early-season target in 2024-2025, but given that he tends to need his first start of the season, I would expect him to be given a prep, possibly in the Charlie Hall

Ginny’s Destiny did little wrong in defeat and pulled 8 lengths clear of the third. Another who has had five starts this season, he will also get 3m in time, but if he were to head to Aintree, I would expect him to attempt to make all in the Manifesto. He would require soft ground and it is worth noting that Paul Nicholls has a poor record in the opening race of the Grand National fixture and his beaten horses include Stage Star, who had won the Turners last year Perhaps, he will be given a break after a hugely productive campaign.

Further back, inexperience probably caught out Iroko, who was having his first start in 128 days and he can leave that form behind in time (another likely contender for Aintree), whilst Facile Vega simply didn’t jump well enough to enable him to get involved with the front two. Stepping up in distance didn’t help the former Champion Bumper winner and it would not be a huge surprise to see him reverting to hurdles next season

PERTEMPS NETWORK FINAL H'CAP HURDLE

FORMERLY a high-class juvenile hurdler, Monmiral bounced back to form in first-time blinkers, under a fine Harry Cobden ride Held-up and kept wide, the seven-year-old still had plenty of horses ahead of him on the run to the final flight, but he picked up really well and even though his jockey lost an iron after the last, momentum wasn’t checked and he always looked like overhauling the gallant Kyntara, who had run a fine race from the front. The winner was put up 6lbs, whilst the runner-up has improved considerably since moving from Kim Bailey (started the season rated 113 and is now rated 134) and reversed Newbury form with the 10-year-old Emitom (5th) who also ran well in defeat

In terms of taking a horse out of the race for the future, the third-placed Cuthbert Dibble would look to be a very bright prospect for fences next season for the Nigel Twiston-Davies team. He goes particularly well on deep ground, but perhaps, reduced his winning chance by proving successful on his first two starts of the season, which resulted in his handicap mark going up from 125 to 139 (now 140) He could go to Aintree for the 3m handicap on Grand National day, but would need soft ground and has had three fairly quick runs, following his late reappearance (30th January) Keep him in the notebook for fences next season

RYANAIR CHASE

DROPPING back in trip, Protektorat travelled really well under Harry Skelton and he saw the race out strongly, once challenged by the runner-up. Knuckling down, he pulled clear inside the final 100 yards to record a 4-length success A trip to Aintree could be on the cards, although it should be remembered that – despite winning as a novice at the fixture – he did disappoint in the 2022 Bowl, on the back of his third placing in the Gold Cup. Stepping back up to 3m1f around Aintree would seem a likely option, whilst the runner-up Envoi Allen could be aimed at the Melling Chase, where he would appreciate the likely better ground. Last year’s Ryanair winner travelled really well –or certainly appeared to (jockey stated otherwise afterwards) – under Rachael Blackmore, having been heavily-supported throughout the day. The 10-year-old has had a relatively light campaign, but

it is worth noting that he has yet to win after the Cheltenham Festival, having tried to do so on three occasions, including when beaten 16½ lengths in last year’s Punchestown Gold Cup.

Further back, Banbridge didn’t appear to handle the ground and started to back out of it from the fence at the top of the hill He should certainly improve for meeting a sounder surface, so is another possible for the Melling at Aintree – where he won last year’s Manifesto – although plenty of his best form has come on the back of a break Hopefully, the fact that he was eased down from a relatively early stage will ensure that he can show his best form in Liverpool next month.

STAYERS’ HURDLE

ANOTHER who has very well-backed throughout the day, Teahupoo justified favouritism and also Gordon Elliott’s faith in him (in switching Irish Point to the Champion Hurdle) by landing the feature on day three, going two places better than last year Off the track since beating Impaire et Passe in the Hatton’s Grace, he boasts an unblemished record on the back of breaks of 52 days or more and perhaps as crucially, the ground was very much in his favour. Ridden patiently by Jack Kennedy, his momentum was checked by putting down two out, but there was plenty of time for him to regain equilibrium and he was a length up when jumping the last, after which he pulled clear to win by the best part of 4 lengths. He certainly saw the trip out well and there is every chance that he could be back next year as the horse to beat once again. Given that record when fresh, I would be slightly cautious about siding with him at either Aintree or Punchestown and perhaps, the French Champion Hurdle would be a more suitable option in May, giving him a little longer to recover and he would be more likely to get his ground at Auteuil. I would expect him to be campaigned similarly (sparingly) next season

Dual-winner Flooring Porter reverted to hurdles to run a fine race in second and given his preference for racing left-handed, he is likely to head back to Aintree, where he twice hit the frame on the back of winning this race Last year’s surprise winner Sire du Berlais ran a remarkable race, finishing strongly to take fifth having struggled to hold his position throughout. Now 12, it wouldn’t be a huge shock to see him build on this at Aintree, where he won in similarly bizarre circumstances last year and this was just his second start of the season Further back, Crambo (9th) was disappointing on a day to forget for Fergal O’Brien – who was forced to declare the exciting Dysart Enos as

a non-runner in the Dawn Run – and might appreciate better ground if going to Aintree, whilst 2019 winner Paisley Park (10th) was retired following a brilliant career for the Emma Lavelle stable

PLATE HANDICAP CHASE

BEN PAULING and Ben Jones have enjoyed a fantastic season and Shakem Up’Arry – who had provided the rider with a first Cheltenham win on New Year’s Day – jumped really well en route to recording a 1¼-length success and but for idling after the last and drifting to his right, would have won by further If the ground remains on the soft side, the Topham at Aintree could be a suitable target (given an entry at early-closing stage on 19th March), despite a 6lbs rise to 149. His positive running style and the way he jumps would certainly stand him in good stead in that contest

For a second year in succession, the Plate was forced into a standing start and whilst it might have not have cost the runner-up the race as it did last year, it certainly didn’t help Crebilly, who didn’t get the early-position which Jonjo O’Neill Jnr appeared to be looking for. A lightly-raced novice, he didn’t jump as fluently as the winner but kept on well and if he heads to Aintree, perhaps stepping up in distance will suit in the 3m1f handicap on Grand National day. He was put up 3lbs by the handicapper and is another who was handed at entry in the Topham over 2m5f Further back, Arctic Bresil (12th) travelled well under Rachael Blackmore but didn’t seem to get home, so might be considered for the Red Rum (a race which Henry de Bromhead has won twice in the past four renewals), whilst in contrast, stable-mate Life In The Park (4th) came from a long way back to hit the frame. He is a much better horse on good ground, so is another to note in the spring, or possibly even in something like the Galway Plate during the summer. He has only won once over fences, but this was an encouraging effort and is yet another from the race to have been handed an entry in the Topham at Aintree.

DAWN RUN MARES’ NOVICES’ HURDLE

THE three non-runners included the unbeaten Dysart Enos and the market was dominated by the Irish-trained pairing of Brighterdaysahead and Jade de Grugy, but Golden Ace upstaged the pair of them, with the slowly-run race playing to her strengths. Jeremy Scott’s six-year-old is a very speedy mare and she travelled strongly under Lorcan Williams and ran out a really authoritative winner. Rated just 124 beforehand, she was put up 15lbs by the handicapper and given her apparent abundant pace, perhaps a trip to Aintree to take on the boys will be consid-

ered (Top Novices’ Hurdle). She finished runner-up in the Nickel Coin (beaten 9 lengths by Dysart Enos) at the Grand National fixture last year, but looks to be an improved mare this season

In behind, Brighterdaysahead would have appreciated a stronger gallop and was outsprinted by a speedier mare, to whom she was conceding 5lbs Whilst she lost her unbeaten record, she remains a high-class prospect once stepped back up in distance and will develop into a very good chaser next season, if Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud opt to head down that route with her Jade de Grugy (4th) was also carrying a 5lbs penalty and her effort can be marked up slightly, as she raced alone on the inside of the track up the home straight and had lost her position when short of room two out. She is another who should improve when faced with a stiffer test of stamina and is likely to be trained with the Mares’ Hurdle in mind next year

FULKE WALWYN KIM MUIR

DESPITE being a 22-runner handicap chase for amateur riders, Inothewayurthinkin was backed into 13-8 on what was just his fifth start over fences. A horse who looked hugely promising as a novice hurdler last season (won his first two before running in a Grade 1, finishing 7 lengths off Champion Hurdle second, Irish Point), he was placed in his first three outings over fences, latterly behind Gaelic Warrior and Il Etait Temps in the Grade 1 Faugheen Novice Chase. Ninth in a competitive

handicap chase at the Dublin Racing Festival, he was stepped up markedly in trip and ran out a thoroughly convincing winner under a sublime ride from Derek O’Connor The experienced amateur had him well-positioned from the off, but found himself third last after just two fences (jumped slowly) Ridden with restraint from there on, the six-year-old took a while to warm to the task, but was helped by the strong pace and started to make eye-catching headway inside the final mile Up into fourth and still travelling ominously well turning in, he took up the running two out and readily drew clear under top-weight to record a striking success Successful off a mark of 145, his I.H.R.B. Rating was upped (from 143) to 156 which will make life more difficult and it could be that his connections consider running him in another Grade 1 novice chase before the season is out, with Aintree and Punchestown both possible options (JP McManus does, of course, have both Corbetts Cross and Fact To File for those 3m races) Further down the line, he could be a Grand National horse, if his jumping improves.

In behind, Whacker Clan (3rd) ran well from the front given that he would have preferred a sounder surface, whilst of those who failed to complete, Chavez (P.U.) will be worth noting when reverting to a shorter trip. Not always a fluent jumper, he seems better suited to a more positive ride and he was actually in front of the winner when falling at the last (took a nasty-looking fall when fading) at Leopardstown in February.

FRIDAY 15TH MARCH Day Four

TRIUMPH HURDLE

SIR GINO was another notable absentee from the fixture and as has often been the case in recent years, the front two emerged from the Spring Juvenile Hurdle at the Dublin Racing Festival, with Majborough reversing Leopardstown form with stable-mate Kargese. That Leopardstown run was his first start for current connections and his first start in 308 days and he duly stepped forward. Jinking to his left two out (still looked quite green), he came off the bridle before the runner-up but found plenty for pressure, despite hanging and again shifting to his left at the last. Staying-on strongly inside the final half-furlong, the imposing son of Martinborough was well on top at the line.

Kargese raced freely in the early part of the race and that probably told late on. She again travelled noticeably well into the home straight and clearly isn’t devoid of pace. With that in mind, she could be one for Aintree, although the Champion Four Year Old Hurdle at Punchestown is a more likely option for the first and second Given that slight tendency to jump to his left at times at Cheltenham, the right-handed track would be a minor concern for Majborough

Salver finished third for Gary Moore and was the sole British-trained runner among the first seven home. He raced up with the pace throughout and kept-on well on ground which he clearly enjoys, resulting in his handicap mark rising from 128 to 143. Given his ground preference, he is unlikely to run at Aintree. Further back, Salvator Mundi (6th) shaped with promise and given his limited experience (had run just the once in France when beaten by the aforementioned Sir Gino), it was a pleasing enough effort. He should have little trouble in shedding his maiden tag –possibly in May before he goes on his summer break – after which he can be expected to make up into a decent novice hurdler next season

COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE

A SEVENTH County Hurdle since 2010 for Willie Mullins, as smart ex-Flat performer Absurde quickened up stylishly to beat L’Eau du Sud by a length. Fourth behind Ballyburn and Slade Steel in Grade 1 company on his previous start, the six-year-old was still stone last at the top of the hill and was given a superb ride by Paul Townend A fairly serious blunder two out didn’t check his progress and although he still had 14 horses ahead of him off

MAJBOROUGH (RIGHT)

the home bend, Townend seemed to be exuding confidence as the son of Fastnet Rock moved easily. He scythed through the pack on the run to the last and despite again making a slight error and shifting left, he always looked like reeling in the runner-up, with his Flat speed telling, despite the testing ground This was a good performance and if he can brush up his jumping (this course clearly suited him well with less emphasis on that), he can rate much higher, especially as he promises to be even better on a sounder surface. He was successful from a BHA Rating of 138, whilst the Irish handicapper allotted him an opening I.H.R.B. Rating of 144 following this success He could, therefore, revert to Grade 1 novice company at either Punchestown or Aintree.

Dan Skelton is another trainer with a fantastic recent record in the County – with him having won it four times in the previous eight years – and L’Eau du Sud backed up his excellent second in the Betfair Hurdle by filling the same position, some 3¼ lengths clear of the third. Also ridden patiently, he made his move earlier and he, too, wasn’t totally fluent at the last. He did little wrong in defeat and up a further 3lbs, the Scottish Champion Hurdle could be an option for him at Ayr, although the pick of his form has come on testing ground. The grey is still lightly-raced and should make up into a smart novice chaser next term, as he is a very athletic mover/jumper

Last year’s runner-up Pied Piper finished third off a 2lbs higher mark and the mare Magical Zoe is another who came from off the pace to take fourth She is a strong-traveller and I have long thought that she could improve for meeting better ground (won a bumper and maiden hurdle on a sound surface), so she is one to note in the coming weeks/months in something similar. Again, the Scottish Champion Hurdle could be an option for her Further back, last year’s winner Faivoir (6th) was beaten less than 5 lengths just six days after his narrow defeat in the Imperial Cup, whilst King Of Kingsfield (14th) – who had finished in front of the winner the time before –moved really well into the race, but faded on the run to the last Jack Kennedy suggested that the six-year-old would prefer better ground and his form would back this up, with him having won his Point on good-to-yielding, a maiden hurdle on yielding and the ground was similar when he finished third in the Grade 1 bumper at Punchestown last spring. He is worth another chance in something similar on spring ground or possibly even in something like the Galway Hurdle

ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE

A RACE that ended up turning into a real test, with runner-up The Jukebox Man running a huge race from the front and only narrowly being denied late-on by the strong-staying Stellar Story, who reversed Leopardstown form with Dancing City (3rd). The front pair dominated from the outset and were locked in a set-to from two out. On the run to the last, it looked like the runner-up had done enough – as he quickened 4 or 5 lengths clear – but as he tired, Gordon Elliott’s seven-year-old stayed-on dourly and nailed him on the line. The pair were 7 lengths clear of the aforementioned Dancing City and the front two look like making up into very smart staying novice chasers next winter, with The Jukebox Man seemingly relishing his first start at the trip. He was put up 12lbs by the handicapper, to a revised mark of 148 and given his liking for soft ground, might not be seen again this season, although as he was clear of the other British-trained runners, his connections might be tempted by the Sefton at Aintree. As for the winner, this is a race in which both Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud have struggled over the years, so it was an overdue success for both.

Further down the field, Johnnywho (8th) caught the eye with how he moved for a long way and whilst the Sefton Novices’ Hurdle might be considered, it is worth noting that he is now eligible for class 1 and class 2 handicaps (fourth run) and having been left on a mark of 136, I wonder if the 3m handicap on Grand National day – run last year as the Village Hotels Handicap Hurdle and won by West Balboa – will be considered Jonjo O’Neill won that race with Sudden Shock (2002), Refinement (2006) and Albertas Run (2007) and the son of Califet remains a good prospect for chasing next term Fences should also bring out the best in Gidleigh Park (6th), who didn’t seem mature enough for a test of this nature at this stage of his career He is another to keep the faith in, from a long-term perspective

GOLD CUP

RIDDEN more prominently than was the case last year, Galopin des Champs retained his Gold Cup crown in comfortable fashion and made it three wins (and a fall when well clear) from four starts at the Cheltenham Festival. Favourite backers didn’t really have too much to worry about throughout (possibly, the loose horse being the main issue) and once he was produced upsides L’Homme Presse (ran well for a long way before

fading from the last) two out, the race looked all over. A fine jump at the last sealed matters and he only had to be pushed out to beat Gerri Colombe by 3½ lengths. This was a controlled performance and he stamped his dominance on the division It will be interesting to see if he heads to Punchestown again, having been beaten there last year, whilst the same stable’s Al Boum Photo was also beaten in the Punchestown Gold Cup after winning at Cheltenham in 2019

Runner-up Gerri Colombe ran really well and showed improved form, having been beaten 23 lengths by the winner in the Savills Chase. It will be interesting to see if he heads to Aintree, where he won the Mildmay Novices’ Chase last year Corach Rambler (3rd) is one horse who will Liverpool-bound next month and Lucinda Russell’s 10-year-old ran the ideal Grand National prep by finishing a staying-on third, beaten 13 lengths and as a result, it wasn’t a shock to see him head to the top of the ante-post market for the Grand National, where he will race off a mark 13lbs higher to from what he won last year. He will be 3lbs ‘well in’ due to his rating rising to 162 as a result of his Gold Cup performance and on better ground, he looks sure to run another huge race at Aintree on this strict piece of form alone. That said – and, having watched the closing stages back several times – he did look quite tired as he crossed the line, so his constitution will now be fully tested, as will the undoubted expertise of Lucinda Russell, Peter Scudamore and their team, with just 29 days between the two races.

Further back, it was disappointing that Fastorslow (unseated rider) parted company with J J Slevin at the 16th fence and if none the worse, I would expect to see him back in action at Punchestown to defend his crown, whilst Jungle Boogie (6th) is another who ran really well for a long way. Lightly-raced and clearly not easy to train, he was down on his nose three out and should be noted in slightly lesser company He would be of huge interest in handicap company from a mark in the low-150s (revised I.H.R.B Rating 153).

ST JAMES’S PLACE HUNTERS’ CHASE

FRACTIOUS beforehand and keen through the early part of the race, it wasn’t a surprise that Ferns Lock failed to stay the trip and David Christie’s seven-year-old was eventually pulled-up between the final two fences. As long as this doesn’t leave too much of a mark, he still appeals as an ideal type for the shorter trip at Aintree, with his front-running style well-suited to the

Grand National course. He was handed an entry in that race, when it closed on Tuesday 19th March. Well-backed favourite Its On The Line was handier than when coming from a long way back to finish second last year and despite not looking the easiest of rides (hung to his right), still hit the front inside the final furlong, only to be collared by Sine Nomine, who scored for trainer Fiona Needham, winner of the race in 2002 as a jockey (Last Option). Only eight, she has plenty more to offer in this sphere going forward and as she stays so well, it wasn’t a surprise that she wasn’t entered in the Aintree race, whilst heading to Stratford – for the Champion Hunters’ Chase – appeals as a much better option for the winner The second holds an entry at Aintree (fell last year) and will presumably head to Punchestown, for a race which he won last year Time Leader (3rd) ran a fine race and having finished fifth in the race last year and having won over 2m5f at Hereford on his penultimate start, it is likely that Hannah Roach’s 10-year-old will head back to Liverpool next month Better ground also seems to suit the Scorpion gelding.

LIBERTHINE MARES’ CHASE

WITH stamina assured, Keith Donoghue took Limerick Lace to the front shortly after three out and always looked like fending-off Dinoblue, who was held together by Mark Walsh Pressing-on from two out, the winner didn’t lose much momentum despite getting in close to the last and although it briefly looked as though the market leader might get on terms, she looked the stronger stayer out of the two. Having been beaten by less than a length and conceding 5lbs to the winner, it is hard to say that Dinoblue didn’t stay the 2m4½f trip, but her form over the minimum trip is stronger, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see her drop in distance to contest the Punchestown Champion Chase, whilst the obvious race for the winner would be the 2m5f Francis Flood Mares Chase at the same meeting. However, she holds an entry in the Grand National at Aintree and it could be that her connections lean that way, with her I.H.R.B Rating increasing to 154 as a result of this win. She will run off a mark of 147 if lining up at Aintree.

MARTIN PIPE HANDICAP HURDLE

DESPITE 21 horses contesting the conditional jockeys’ race which concluded the meeting, the top three in the market fought out the finish and as with the Albert Bartlett, Gordon Elliott won the race with a strong stayer. Runner-up Waterford Whispers was heavily-supported in the build-up to the race

and was prominent throughout and settled better once taking up the running early into the final circuit. He travelled with zest under Mike O’Connor and looked the most likely winner on the run to the final flight Steadied into it, he lost a little momentum, but the winner got away from inside the final 100 yards and the third and fourth were closing on him if anything, so it can’t be said that he was an unlucky loser. Settling a little better will help moving forward and he remains a really nice prospect, with this just his fifth career start and that career only began last April when he finished seventh in a Fairyhouse maiden hurdle The Irish handicapper handed him a revised I.H.R.B Rating of 135 (+8lbs) for this effort, although it should be remembered that he raced off a BHA Rating of 133 in this race

The winner Better Days Ahead was pushed along before the home turn, but finished really powerfully and stamina certainly won the day, with him having won his maiden over 2m7½f in November Conceding 7lbs to the winner, he could step back up in trip and in class, to contest a Grade 1 novice hurdle over 3m at either Aintree or Punchestown, but would probably need soft ground to do so and he looks to be another bright prospect for fences next season. Earlier in the season, he had finished fourth behind Slade Steel (Supreme winner) and Stellar Story (Albert Bartlett winner)

in a Grade 2 at Navan and his I.H.R.B. Rating was increased by 9lbs to 145 as a result (successful here off a BHA Rating of 140).

The third-placed Quai de Bourbon travelled well and was another who held a good position throughout, just behind the speed On the long run to the last, it looked as though him and Waterford Whispers were going better than anything and his effort appeared to have levelled-out after the final flight, but he again closed-in on the runner-up in the dying strides. Another who was conceding 7lbs to the second, he is another who could go up in class before the season is out and should make his mark over fences in time. Answer To Kayf made it a 1-2-3-4 for Irish-trained novices (such horses boast a fine record in this race) and he ran to form with Waterford Whispers from earlier in the campaign at Fairyhouse Another who had form with Stellar Story – from Limerick over Christmas – he stayed on well and should appreciate going up to 3m before too long He was 12 lengths clear of the remainder, whilst further back, the run of No Ordinary Joe (7th) is another which can be marked up, given the form of the Nicky Henderson stable through the week. Runner-up last year, he travelled strongly to the foot of the hill and should be noted if heading to Aintree for the 2m4f handicap hurdle. Sent off favourite for that race last year, he is now 3lbs lower, having been left on a mark of 140.

BETTER DAYS AHEAD (RIGHT)