Katie Midwinter (09/03/24)
The Cheltenham Festival is here once again. It feels like only yesterday the masses descended upon Prestbury Park for the annual pilgrimage, to see one of the most spectacular days in the history of the sport. The roar was deafening, spine-tingling, as the tapes went up prior to the first event of the day which saw Marine Nationale lowering the colours of Facile Vega, the bumper champion twelve months prior who had captured the hearts of many a racing fan.
A clash between El Fabiolo and Jonbon followed, in which the former was far superior, delighting punters by making it two on the day for the Irish. The favourites continued to dominate, a future Grand National winner in the form of Corach Rambler narrowly beat the unlucky Fastorslow, who had been beaten a similar distance by 50/1 shot Commander Of Fleet in a deluge of rain in the Coral Cup a year prior, to retain the prize in the first handicap of the meeting.
Already a fantastic day in the warm sunshine, the best was yet to come at Cheltenham as the crowds prepared to welcome their hero, Constitution Hill, into the arena. Fans gathered around the parade ring hoping to catch a glimpse of the equine star who was bidding for a second Festival success, a first in open company. State Man was a worthy rival, with six wins to his name including four Grade One contests, but he was beaten nine-lengths by the mesmerising Constitution Hill, who galloped up the Cheltenham Hill with little exertion.
The only moment of panic came when taking off early to hurdle the last, invoking painful memories of Annie Power. He landed safely and received a deserving reception full of adulation, in what was a “I was there” moment. A performance of a lifetime that surely wasn’t to be topped. But it was.
A mare that had captured the hearts of the racing world and beyond, along with her equally as popular partner Rachael Blackmore, Honeysuckle was to bow out on her racing career at the most fitting location. A three-time Cheltenham Festival winner, she had previously won a Mares’ Hurdle before recording successive Champion Hurdle victories, cementing her place in the history books as one of the true greats of the sport.
Her sixteen-race unbeaten run had come to an end earlier in the campaign when beaten in the Hatton’s Grace. Another defeat by State Man followed as she attempted to retain her Irish Champion Hurdle crown at the Dublin Racing Festival. There were doubts over whether or not she retained enough ability to be successful in a Grade One. She was no longer untouchable. There were arguments that she should go down on her shield in the Champion Hurdle. But that would have robbed us of one of the most spectacular and special moments in history.
Late backing meant she was sent off as joint-favourite at odds of 9/4, the public hoping for a fairytale ending that had been snatched away from them by Delta Work in the Cross Country as they said farewell to Tiger Roll twelve months ago. Marie’s Rock, Epatante, Love Envoi, not to mention the Irish contingent, were all threats to this fairytale but Honeysuckle would not be beaten.
Despite losing momentum at the last, handing Love Envoi an advantage, Honeysuckle dug deep under Blackmore in a last chance power drive towards the line. The roar of the crowd as she passed her final rival was an unforgettable moment. The emotion was felt by everyone with a shared feeling of elation for the horse, the jockey, the whole team involved with Honeysuckle but more so than anything Henry de Bromhead and his family.
Dubbed the ‘golden hour’, it was a truly special day overall culminating in an unforgettable double for young jockey Michael O’Sullivan aboard Jazzy Matty in the Boodles Juvenile Hurdle, and a popular winner for Patrick Mullins with Gaillard Du Mesnil in the National Hunt Chase.
The Cheltenham Festival, there’s nothing else like it. The pinnacle of the sport, the place where everyone wants to be and where everyone wants to win. This year there will be more names added to the history books, familiar favourites and emerging stars. Whatever is to come, enjoy it, savour it and appreciate it for it comes around only once a year but lives long in the memory.
TUESDAY
1:30 – Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
An interesting renewal that appears to lack star quality, on paper at least. It’s an open race due to the rerouting of long-time favourite Ballyburn, leaving the door open for another improving novice to taste Grade One glory. Not a single intended runner has won a Grade One so far, but plenty of them have the look of future Grade One winners and this is just their starting point.
With Ballyburn absent for Closutton, Mystical Power can fill the void. The unbeaten son of Galileo, out of Champion Hurdle winner Annie Power, is unbeaten in three starts having taken an unusual route, enjoying success during a summer campaign, before returning to land a Grade Two at Punchestown in January. Despite showing class in two hurdling starts his jumping hasn’t been the most efficient. That is a concern if he bumps into a slicker hurdler with an engine to match, but he has the perfect pedigree to allow him to be successful.
Closutton stablemate Tullyhill was hugely impressive when a nine-length winner at Punchestown last month. He appears to be suited by softer conditions, and came closest to winning a Grade One when second to A Dream To Share at the Punchestown Festival last season. The point-to-point winner is another with question marks over his jumping however, and this could prove to be a problem especially on ground that may not be as testing as ideal.
Firefox perhaps demands the most success having beaten Ballyburn in a Fairyhouse maiden earlier on in the season. He had the benefit of a recent run, and it was perhaps the fitness edge that allowed him to inflict defeat upon his talented rival, however the suggestion that it was only ground or fitness that resulted in the performance is unfair on Firefox and he is clearly a talented performer on his day.
His run in the Lawlor’s Of Naas was disappointing, but it was his first try at the trip and it may be as simple as he just did not stay against some classy opponents. The drop back in trip will be certain to suit and he holds leading claims. He has had a light enough campaign to indicate he will be fresh and ready for this challenge.
A forgotten horse in the race is Jeriko Du Reponet. The unbeaten gelding has an untarnished record and won a Grade Two when last seen at Doncaster. Whilst he hasn’t been the most visually impressive in his runs this season, he has been able to get out of trouble and will have learnt plenty. The form of his recent win has been franked by Lump Sum, who subsequently won the Dovecote Novices’ Hurdle at Kempton, and the ‘talking horse’ in the earlier parts of the season may be worth siding with.
Slade Steel runs in over the shorter trip despite previously appearing Gallagher bound. He is proven over the trip but was well beaten by Ballyburn at the Dublin Racing Festival and was effective over 2m4f in heavy ground at Navan when winning a Grade Two. A point-to-point winner, he may be a horse that’s better suited to a tougher test of stamina than this. Although he does possess speed, and stamina is required to win a Supreme, he may be beaten for toe by a quicker horse.
Tellherthename comes into the race with a big reputation, representing a Ben Pauling yard that has been enjoying plenty of success this season. The five-year-old Malinas gelding is an exciting prospect and represents an in-form yard. He was narrowly beaten by a subsequent Grade One winner in Jango Baie on debut but showed plenty of grit and determination, and has since won twice over timber. Reported to have lost his action when pulled at Aintree earlier in the season, he bounced back in good fashion at Huntingdon and is an intriguing contender at a big price.
An eighteen-length winner on debut for new connections, Mistergif has only been seen once for Willie Mullins and is significantly upped in grade. He is entitled to improve for his experience at Limerick, and the manner of his victory was exceptional, putting him in with a chance of making the frame if he possesses the class required. Purchased for €190,000 last year, he may be overlooked.
Asian Master is an intriguing contender at a big price under amateur rider Thomas Costello. Two from two over hurdles for Willie Mullins, he was impressive in testing conditions at Navan when last seen and has previously beaten stablemate Jimmy Du Seuil at Thurles, the form of which has been franked. Whether or not he’s classy enough to be competitive against some talented novices remains to be seen, but he holds each-way claims at an enticing price.
Selection: Mystical Power 7/2
Alternative: Jeriko Du Reponet 8/1
2:10 – Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase (Grade 1)
Il Etait Temps deserves credit as the Irish Arkle winner and has solid form overall, performing consistently well throughout his career including when fifth in the Supreme last year. He got the better of Found A Fifty when the pair met at the Dublin Racing Festival, showing plenty of heart and tenacity to claim the plaudits. Small in stature, he doesn’t look like a typical chaser, but he has plenty of ability and does possess the quality required to be competitive in this race.
Found A Fifty is a horse with his quirks. He did most things wrong when winning a Leopardstown Grade One over Christmas, but showed plenty of ability to stride away from the field, powering towards the line. A tendency to jump to his right is a concern, but he was more straightforward on his recent run which would suggest he has improved with more experience and he can show further progression. If he is able to get into a rhythm from the front, he could prove difficult to pass.
Gaelic Warrior had looked a certainty for the Turners Novices’ Chase earlier in the season, but has since been rerouted and will wear a first-time hood. He will have to be forgiven for a poor performance in a match race with stablemate Fact To File at the Dublin Racing Festival last month, but although he may have gone too quickly out in front on that occasion, putting pressure on his own jumping and making errors, it is perhaps his pre-race antics that were scrutinised the most and is the biggest cause for concern.
In the paddock prior to the off he was on his toes, carrying his head awkwardly and failed to settle. This could have played a part in the manner of his performance subsequently, but if he was to put in a repeat performance in the Cheltenham parade ring, it would certainly be a worry.
Last year at the Festival he finished second to stablemate Impaire Et Passe in the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle, tucked up on the rail for much of the race, with his jumping standing the test for much of the race. The tighter nature of the Old Course is unlikely to suit, as he is a horse who prefers to go right-handed, however the two mile trip in this contest, with the long-time favourite Marine Nationale missing out, gives him a feasible opportunity of finally landing a long-awaited success at the Festival. If he is able to jump with some fluency and doesn’t jink too much to his right, he will be in with an excellent chance. A risky selection that could reap the rewards.
Hunters Yarn was a capable hurdler who fell short at the top level but has looked an exciting prospect over fences and is unfortunate not to be two from two this term. He fell late on when clear at Fairyhouse on his penultimate start but made no mistake in his subsequent run when beating Path D’oroux by ten-lengths. He could have a part to play if able to continue his progression.
Former Triumph Hurdle winner Quilixios has been sparingly seen over the past few seasons but has returned in fine fettle to beat Sa Fureur and Mister Policeman last time out at Naas, building on an earlier season victory at Limerick. A lack of stamina could have been to blame for a disappointing effort in the Florida Pearl Novice Chase at Punchestown, but he has looked comfortable over 2m, showing plenty of class and the speed required to be competitive in such a contest.
A Grade Two winner at Lingfield when last seen, JPR One showed a great battling attitude to repel the challenge of Matata and improve on his performance in the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase. It’s worth noting that the complexion of the race at Lingfield changed at the first fence with the fall of Djelo, badly hampered by Matata, but JPR One deserved credit for the manner of his victory. He’s a leading contender for the home guard but it’s difficult to envisage him improving enough to beat the Irish-raiders.
Matata won a handicap at Ffos Las on chasing debut and has finished twice in two races since, including when half-a-length behind JPR One in the aforementioned Lingfield Grade Two. He jumped to his left at times during the race, which shouldn’t cause too much of a problem if he does so again unless he makes a catastrophic error as he did at the first fence last time. Despite having little to find with JPR One on form, he is likely to be found wanting at this level, up against some top class Irish opposition.
His stablemate Master Chewy is two from five over fences and won a Grade Two at Kempton, beating a subsequent Grad One winner in Nickle Back. Despite being disappointing when last seen he had been hampered by Matata’s exuberant jump early on and is likely better than he showed on that occasion. He’s a promising novice but whether or not he’s Grade One quality remains to be seen.
Selection: Gaelic Warrior 10/3
Alternative: Found A Fifty 5/1
2:50 – Ultima Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)
Meetingofthewaters, recently bought by JP McManus, unseated at Leopardstown when last seen having previously won the Paddy Power Chase at the track on a mark of 130. He was given a 15lbs rise for his victory, but will be running off 147. A progressive type, he could improve plenty with further experience and looks a strong stayer that could be suited to this challenge.
Fourth in the race last year when rated 2lbs higher, The Goffer enters calculations once again as a reliable each-way contender. At current prices he appears short enough, especially considering he may not be the strongest stayer over this trip.
Chianti Classico was pulled up in last year’s Albert Barlett when sent off at odds of 66/1. He wasn’t himself on that occasion and there were reasonable excuses, but he has looked a force to be reckoned with over fences and has been given a handy mark on 143. He made hard work of things when a 4/5 favourite at Ascot on his penultimate run before being beaten by Flegmatik when last seen, but has shaped with promise and there could be further progression to come from him.
This is the first time he has faced a field of more than seven runners over the larger obstacles but he has previously beaten fifteen rivals to win his maiden hurdle. There is plenty to suggest he should make the frame, but the Irish favourite could be tough to beat.
Stumptown is 6lbs higher than when beating Inch House at the course in January. He was narrowly beaten in the Kim Muir last year by Angels Dawn, when a well backed favourite, but he isn’t the most fluent jumper and he may struggle off his current mark unless he is able to get into a good jumping rhythm early on.
Seventh in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle last year, Weveallbeencaught has always looked like a chaser but is yet to fire over fences. A big, imposing type, he has been well beaten in both of his last two runs but was only three-and-three-quarter-lengths behind winner Flooring Porter, a length-and-a-quarter behind stablemate Broadway Boy, at the course in October.
That was his best performance of the season so far, but he is yet to show what he’s really capable of over fences. A quick pace in which he is able to settle and use his stamina late on is required, and a mark of 134 looks workable enough. He could have each-way claims at best.
Selection: Meetingofthewaters 5/1
3:30 – Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1)
With Constitution Hill sadly missing his chance to retain his Champion Hurdle crown, the stage is set for State Man. Not many would begrudge him a Grade One title at Cheltenham, as he’s a likable horse, straightforward and talented with huge ability. An eight-time Grade One winner, he has danced every dance for Willie Mullins, never shying away from a challenge and always performing to the best of his ability. The class act will be deserving of a Champion Hurdle victory, and the others have it all to do to match the level he has shown.
Irish Point has been rerouted from the Stayers’ Hurdle, dropping back in trip. He has 10lbs to find with the favourite on ratings, but could be best of the rest having won a Grade Three at Down Royal on his first run in open company before landing a Leopardstown Grade One over Christmas. He skipped the Festival last year in favour of Aintree, and this will be his first run at the track, but he holds strong each-way claims and could be the biggest danger to the favourite if conditions are testing.
Supplemented Iberico Lord is a winner over course-and-distance and bounced back to form with victory in the Betfair Hurdle when last seen following a below par effort at Ascot. Softer conditions are required to be seen at his best but he has plenty to find on ratings.
His Seven Barrows stablemate Luccia is a surprising inclusion given she may have been presented with a more feasible opportunity of making the frame in the Mares’ Hurdle later on the card, however, there may have been more of an incentive to place in a Champion Hurdle. The softer ground is a concern as she prefers a sounder surface but it would be no surprise to see her among the places at a big price on a going day.
Not So Sleepy is the best of the British contenders on ratings but faces a tough task as a twelve-year-old despite winning the Fighting Fifth when last seen. He could improve on his fifth in the race last year, and will be sent off a much shorter price than 150.1 this time around, but it’s difficult to envisage him troubling the favourite. He is a quirky horse and will have plenty of supporters, and on form he could well have each-way claims.
An improving type in the field is the seven-year-old Nemean Lion. Hardy and tough, he doesn’t give in and has shown a great battling attitude as well as tenacity in his races. Having gained valuable experience in handicap company this season, he was able to make a swift step up to win a Grade Two in the Kingwell Hurdle, beating Colonel Mustard, when well backed on the day. A long shot, but a big price for an each-way contender rated 8lbs superior to the shortest priced British runner, Iberico Lord.
Zarak The Brave has been a consistent performer for Willie Mullins bar being pulled up at Tipperary when found to be clinically abnormal. He finished second to Lossiemouth twice last season, including when a length-and-a-half behind at the Punchestown Festival. A winner of the Galway Hurdle, plus a Naas Grade Three, he is a dark horse who could run a big race.
Selection: State Man 2/5
Alternative: Nemean Lion 28/1 (EW)
4:10 – Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
Top quality mare Lossiemouth will take all of the beating in this Grade One contest. She is unfortunate not to be unbeaten in her career, the only blemish coming when beaten by Gala Marceau having run into the back of stablemate and fellow Ricci-owned Jourdefete on that occasion.
A brilliant winner of the Triumph Hurdle last year, she has been quietly campaigned this season with her only outing to date coming in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham in January. On her first run in open company, she made light work of a field including Love Envoi and Rubaud, showing electrifying speed. She can improve for the run and be even better this time around.
Ashroe Diamond is a formidable mare who has only been beaten by Grade One winning geldings over obstacles. She possesses plenty of talent and will likely make the frame, but it’s hard to envisage her overturning stablemate Lossiemouth.
Another admirable mare is Echoes In Rain who has been present in so many of the big meetings over the years. She faces a tough task in this field but kept on to finish fourth in the contest last year and could fill the places.
Hispanic Moon is two from three for Henry de Bromhaed, including a Grade Three success when last seen. She was found wanting in a Leopardstown Grade Three over Christmas but may have improved plenty and is available at a big price.
Love Envoi finished a gallant second to Honeysuckle in the race last year but she hasn’t been as impressive so far this season and this could be her final racecourse start. She was well beaten by Lossiemouth last time and faces a near impossible task to reverse that form, but can make her presence felt again and could turn out to be plenty of each-way value at the prices.
Former winner Marie’s Rock has run over three miles or further in three of her four starts since finishing seventh in this race last year. However, her best performance of the season was arguably in the extended two-and-a-half-miles Relkeel Hurdle when behind Bob Olinger.
Telmesomethinggirl is the mount of Rachael Blackmore and could be overlooked at a big price. She was in the process of running well when brought down in the race two years ago and having been tried chasing, she has returned over hurdles this term. Second to Zarak The Brave when last seen, running well, she can improve further and could have a part to play.
You Wear It Well, winner of the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at the meeting last year, is a huge price at 33/1 following a couple of disappointing efforts this term. She beat Luccia, who subsequently franked the form, in a Listed Wetherby race on her seasonal reappearance, and finished second to Marie’s Rock at Doncaster, but she was hugely disappointing on heavy ground at Haydock and may be feeling the effects of a tough season by now. Yet at the prices she may be worth considering each-way, as she has course form and is talented on her day.
Selection: Lossiemouth 8/13
Alternative: You Wear It Well 33/1 (EW)
4:50 – Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap)
Lark In The Mornin was an eyecatcher when last seen at Punchestown, finishing third to Highwind who was subsequently eighth at the Dublin Racing Festival. Although there is likely plenty more to come from the Joseph O’Brien-trained runner, the form of the Punchestown race is questionable given that the second-place Pigeon House had previously been beaten twenty-four-lengths by Wodhooh previously.
Softer ground would also be a concern as he has been withdrawn on two occasions due to unsuitable heavy ground. A mark of 122 appears workable enough in comparison with some of his rivals however, and he is likely to run well.
Fourth to Kala Conti in a Leopardstown Grade Two when last seen, Batman Girac must carry a hefty weight on a mark of 133. He had previously disappointed at Fairyhouse on debut for Willie Mullins but was purchased for €150,000 last May after winning at Compiegne following a sixth-place finish to Majborough. There could be more to come from him in higher grade in future, which makes him dangerous to oppose in a handicap.
On a fair mark of 126, the same as An Bradan Feasa who was just ahead of him in the November trial race, Milan Tino is a consistent performer who could be capable of showing further progression. He has stayed on well in both appearances at the track, including when third to Sir Gino when last seen, and his course experience could prove valuable.
The aforementioned An Bradan Feasa is available at a big price in comparison with his rival, but his below par performance when fourth to Liari is a cause for concern and he will need to bounce back to form if he is to be competitive.
At a huge price of 66/1, the outsider of the field makes some appeal for Gordon Elliott. Mordor, the mount of Danny Gilligan claiming 3lb aboard, finished third on hurdling debut at Leopardstown, travelling best of all turning for home before weakening but staying on in third. He was sent off at odds of 3/1 on his subsequent run, but finished down the field and was reported to have suffered a wound to his right hind.
On return at Fairyhouse he travelled strongly into the race before fading, but he is capable of better and may have needed the run on the back of the slight injury. In such an open race, he could be worth considering each-way on a mark of 125.
Selection: Mordor 66/1 (EW)
5:30 – National Hunt Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Novices’ Chase (Grade 2)
Corbetts Cross may be the class angle in this field but his jumping has been less than impressive this season and he ran out when mounting his challenge as favourite in last year’s Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle. He is yet to show a natural affinity for fences and fell on his most recent appearance at Fairyhouse. Whilst he is the one to beat on ability, he is difficult to trust sporting a first-time hood.
The headgear is also tried with Embassy Gardens who has stamina to prove but a Grade Three win over 3m1f on soft to heavy at Naas would suggest a step up in trip should prove no problem. Patrick Mullins has won the last two renewals and a record four overall. He appears more straightforward and trustworthy over fences although he failed to cope with the occasion when racing too freely at the Festival last year.
Salvador Ziggy hasn’t been seen since a beaten favourite when seventh of eight in the Grade One Grand National Hurdle Stakes at Far Hills. He had previously finished second in the Kerry National following a hat-trick of wins and is a strong stayer over three miles, capable of improving over further, but others have more compelling form.
Henry’s Friend won the Grade Two Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase when last seen, with Kilbeg King a head behind in second. The pair are difficult to split but the latter could be more suited to the step up in trip.
Selection: Embassy Gardens 15/8
Day 1 – selections:
1:30 – Mystical Power 7/2
2:10 – Gaelic Warrior 10/3, Found A Fifty 5/1
2:50 – Meetingofthewaters 5/1
3:30 – State Man 2/5, Nemean Lion 28/1 EW
4:10 – Lossiemouth 8/13, You Wear It Well 33/1 EW
4:50 – Mordor 66/1 EW
5:30 – Embassy Gardens 15/8
*prices correct at time of publication
WEDNESDAY
1:30 – Baring Bingham Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1)
Ballyburn is one of the emerging talents from Closutton. Four from five under rules, beaten only by Firefox on his seasonal reappearance and hurdling debut, he was a class above his rivals over two miles at the Dublin Racing Festival but looks an even more exciting prospect over this intermediate trip. With a perfect mix of speed and stamina, he will be tough to beat in this field.
His Closutton stablemate Ile Atlantique could pose the biggest threat. Narrowly beaten by Readin Tommy Wrong in the Lawlor’s Of Naas when last seen, having made much of the running, he has shown he possesses plenty of class but has perhaps lacked a battling attitude in a few races to date that would raise cause for concern. Any rainfall will help his cause, but he may find one too good once again.
Predators Gold is an interesting contender. Second to Dancing City over an extended 2m6f at Leopardstown last month, he lacked the stamina required to be as effective as the winner over the trip on testing ground and now runs over the intermediate distance at Cheltenham. His second to Caldwell Potter in heavy ground over the festive period suggested a step up in trip was in the offing and the form of his recent run could work out well, making him a horse to keep a close eye on, especially in softer conditions.
Gidleigh Park, an imposing type, has been highly effective for Harry Fry, with an unbeaten record from four outings. A Grade Two winner when last seen, he is unexposed at this level but will need to show further progression to match the level shown by the Irish contingent.
Ben Pauling-trained Handstands won the Listed Sidney Banks at Huntingdon when last seen, beating a Grade One winner in Jango Baie. He is another unbeaten contender in the field and has shaped with plenty of promise, capable of springing a surprise.
Selection: Ballyburn 4/7
Alternative: Predators Gold 10/1 (EW)
2:10 – Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (Grade 1)
Last year’s Champion Bumper runner-up Fact To File bypassed hurdles and was sent immediately chasing by trainer Willie Mullins. The seven-year-old has shown tremendous ability over fences this term, beating chasing debutant Zanahiyr by seventeen-lengths at Leopardstown in December before winning a match race with Gaelic Warrior in a Dublin Racing Festival Grade One. The race fell apart last time however, with his only rival failing to handle preliminaries before going off at a frantic pace and jumping to his right.
Earlier in the season, Fact To File was beaten by American Mike at Navan, supplemented for this race, the only blemish on his chasing record. A repeat seems unlikely given the improvement shown by Fact To File since, and it’s difficult to envisage a scenario in which he is beaten, if the reputation that now precedes him is an accurate reflection on his ability.
Stay Away Fay appears the best of the British contenders. The winner of the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle last year, he has made a swift transition to life over fences, winning on both his first two starts before finishing a respectable third in open company in the Cotswold Chase. That recent effort will have provided him with a nice preparation ahead of his date with destiny.
Monty’s Star landed a first success over fences when last seen at Punchestown in December and has been kept fresh since. He had previously finished a decent third to Corbetts Cross, behind Three Card Brag, at Fairyhouse over an extended 2m5f, but the step up to 3m has suited the son of Walk In The Park. He won a Grade Three winner over the trip when hurdling last term, beating stablemate Hiddenvalley Lake at Clonmel, and appears to have stamina in abundance. Pulled up in the Albert Barlett last year, he had met the winner Stay Away Fay previously when six-lengths behind in a point-to-point back in 2021.
Needing to put his recent disappointment behind him, Broadway Boy is a respected contender on his previous form this term following successive wins at the track following a second-place finish to Flooring Porter. He has shown plenty of promise over fences, winning a Listed contest before returning to handicap company to beat Threeunderthrufive, a subsequent winner, and Protektorat. Although he will likely bounce back to form this time out, he will have to improve further if he is to beat the leading pair in the market.
Selection: Fact To File 4/5
2:50 – Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap)
Sa Majeste has been given a rating of 140 by the British handicapper following his defeat of subsequent Cleeve Hurdle winner Noble Yeats at Limerick in December. Although it was the former Grand National winner’s first outing since an appearance in the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris in May, and he was entitled to come on for the run, it remained a promising performance by young French-bred Sa Majeste, who was making only his second start for Willie Mullins. If taking the form literally, his mark looks lenient enough and his profile suggests there could be plenty more to come from the six-year-old.
His stablemate Quai De Bourbon is on the same mark of 140 following two wins for the yard. He just prevailed over fellow Closutton representative Westport Cove when last seen at Clonmel but had previously won with ease at Naas over 3f further, suggesting this trip will be more suitable.
Returning winner Langer Dan is on the same mark as when victorious in the contest last year, but hasn’t had the best preparation and may find it tougher this time around. If he is back to his best and ready for the challenge then he will surely have an excellent chance of making the frame and must be respected considering his good record at the track.
Nicky Henderson could saddle two improving types in the form of Doddiethegreat and Lucky Place. The former is on a mark of 132, 1lb higher than when second to subsequent Imperial Cup winner Go Dante, and on the same rating as when fourth in the Betfair Hurdle. The step up in trip could suit as he has been staying on well over a shorter distance.
The aforementioned Lucky Place is another on a handy mark of 137, up 5lbs for his Grade Two second at the track behind Gidleigh Park. He had previously finished three-quarters-of-a-length behind Golden Ace, giving 14lbs to the mare, at Taunton.
Gordon Elliott-trained Jigoro finished second behind Mystical Power on his penultimate run, before a third-place finish to Tullyhill, with No Flies On Him narrowly ahead in second and Westport Cove three-lengths behind in fourth. He had previously won his maiden hurdle in convincing fashion at Navan and the step up in trip could inspire further improvement.
Ocastle Des Mottes is another name to note if taking his chance in this race. He was sent off as the 7/2 favourite for the Betfair Hurdle, on a mark of 133, but had to be reshod prior to the off and failed to run his race. More was expected from him on that occasion, and it would be some feat if he was able to win such a competitive race on only his second start for Willie Mullins, but he has plenty of experience from his time in France which could hold him in good stead.
Guard Your Dreams returned after a lengthy absence in the International Hurdle this season, before finishing fourth in the Kingwell Hurdle. Whilst more is required to be competitive in this field, he can be forgiven for on account of the ground at Wincanton and looks certain to improve on his reappearance effort, on a workable mark of 137.
If lining up in this race Anyharminasking could be one to consider at a big price. Currently available at 100/1, he is an intriguing contender on a mark of 136 considering he was second to Nemean Lion, now rated 151, when in receipt of 2lbs in the Welsh Champion Hurdle. The trip will suit and he may be worth considering.
Selection: Jigoro 20/1 (EW)
Alternative: Quai De Bourbon 16/1 (EW)
3:30 – Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase (Grade 1)
Last year’s Arkle hero El Fabiolo will be extremely tough to beat in Wednesday’s feature race. He sets the standard as he attempts to extend his unbeaten run over fences and record another win at the Festival. A classy horse, he is professional and has been improving with more experience as a chaser, shaping into one of the best chasers in training. The only chink in his armour is his jumping, but it hasn’t let him down so far and whenever he hasn’t been as fluent as desired over a fence, he has been able to get away with it, landing cleanly.
Jonbon is his biggest threat, but he must improve plenty to reverse the form with El Fabiolo and his preparation run in the Clarence House was less than impressive. Although he battled well to get back on terms with eventual winner Elixir De Nutz after making a shuddering mistake, it wasn’t enough and Jonbon was beaten for only the third time in his career. The only horses to inflict defeat upon the brother of Douvan previously were Constitution Hill and El Fabiolo.
Edwardstone is likely to be prominent if he is to repeat his effort in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, in the race that saw him return to the winners’ enclosure for the first time since his Tingle Creek win in 2022. The course-and-distance winner has certain each-way claims but has 9lbs to find on official ratings with the Irish favourite.
Reigning champion Energumene has been sadly missed this term after an injury ruled him out for the season, but last year’s runner-up Captain Guinness will attempt to go one better this time around for Henry de Bromhead, who has won the race three times in the past with Sizing Europe, Special Tiara and most recently in 2021 with Put The Kettle On. Captain Guinness won a Grade Two on his first run of the season before being pulled up at Leopardstown and found to be clinically abnormal. He returned to action at the Dublin Racing Festival when third to El Fabiolo in the Dublin Chase and has plenty to find based on that effort.
Selection: El Fabiolo 4/9
4:10 – Glenfarclas Chase (Cross Country Chase) (Class 2)
The market is dominated by the Irish contingent in the Cross Country Chase with former Gold Cup winner Minello Indo the well backed antepost favourite. Irish-trained horses have won eight of the last ten renewals of the race, notably on three occasions with Tiger Roll between 2018 and 2021. Gordon Elliott is the joint-leading trainer, along with Enda Bolger, and is bidding for a third successive win, a record fifth overall, with villain turned hero Delta Work.
It was Delta Work who ruined Tiger Roll’s farewell party in the 2022 renewal of the race, but he has since been forgiven and has become a force to be reckoned with in this sphere. He was third in the Grand National following his first victory in the race and, although he’s now an eleven-year-old, he should be the one to beat on his record over course-and-distance.
The spark has been reignited in Minella Indo with the switch to the cross country fences, with a pleasing effort in December when finishing fourth carrying top weight of 12st suggesting this was the correct route to take with a horse that was rated 175 at his best. He possesses plenty of class but he is no longer the force of old in Grade One contests and this is a challenge that should be better suited to him at this stage in his career.
Likeable grey Coko Beach has been in excellent form this term with a third-placed effort in the Munster National on his first run of the season preceding a Troytown Chase victory at Navan. He won at Punchestown when last seen, following a second-placed finish at Aintree in extreme conditions. A hardy horse, he is a strong stayer with great heart and tenacity and will certainly have a part to play in the race.
Classy contender Galvin put in a brave effort in defeat last year in the race when second to stablemate Delta Work. He has acquired more experience now however, which could allow him to reverse the form, but he is likely to need better ground to be seen to his best.
Selection: Delta Work 5/2
4:50 – Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap)
Recent renewals have seen 14/1, 22/1, 28/1 and 66/1 winners in this race so it may be worth looking for some each-way value on the day but there are plenty of lively contenders at shorter prices and towards the head of the market is Saint Roi for Willie Mullins.
It’s hard to believe that Mullins is yet to saddle a winner of a handicap chase at the Cheltenham Festival but it’s surely a case of when rather than if, that a winner of such a contest will emerge from Closutton. Perhaps it will be the classy Saint Roi, a former winner of the County Hurdle, who has good form to his name over fences including when second to now 161-rated Banbridge, the Ryanair Chase favourite, at Aintree in the Manifesto Novices’ Chase last term. He finished third in last year’s Arkle to El Fabiolo, but has been lacking at Grade One level and looks better suited to handicaps.
Ben Pauling saddled Global Citizen to win the race two years ago, and is represented by Harper’s Brook in this renewal. He is 4lbs higher for his recent seven-length win at Sandown, having previously been beaten late on at Ascot, idling when left alone in front. Given that he has been ineffective in the past when getting to the front too soon, it’s likely he’ll be coming late with a challenge and could be finishing best of all in the closing stages.
Libberty Hunter beat Matata at the track when last seen on New Year’s Day, defying a 10lb hike in ratings for a previous Wincanton victory. Now 17lbs higher than when beginning his season at Chepstow, the eight-year-old gelding is still improving and could be ahead of his mark of 139, capable of making a bold bid for victory in this field.
Madara is up 10lbs for a successful visit to the Dublin Racing Festival, but that may not deter his progression as the five-year-old French-bred appears to have plenty more to offer.
Another to note is last year’s winner Maskada, who returns to defend her crown on a 8lb higher mark. She was a distant third to Allegorie De Vassy in a Listed contest at Naas when last seen, attempting to make all in testing conditions. She is capable of better but a mark of 150 may hamper her chances.
Sa Fureur is on workable mark of 145 given he was a Grade Three winner as a hurdler, beating Buddy One, and was sent off as favourite for last year’s Coral Cup. He disappointed at the meeting last year, finding himself short of room on a couple of occasions, but has been impressive over fences and is unexposed. His second-place finish to Quilixios when last seen represents a good formline, which has been franked by third-placed Mister Policeman who subsequently won at Punchestown.
Selection: Sa Fureur 10/1 (EW)
Alternative: Saint Roi 8/1 (EW)
5:30 – Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Grade 1)
The bumper lacks a standout contender in the antepost markets, with a number of horses vying for favouritism towards the head of the market. Perhaps the picture will be clearer once the final declarations are announced, but at this stage there are plenty of genuine contenders.
Jasmin De Vaux could be the mount of Patrick Mullins, which would suggest he is the first string of a Willie Mullins battalion. Last year Fact To File, ridden by the champion amateur, finished best of the rest behind A Dream To Share, but it isn’t out of the question that a bigger priced Mullins runner could claim the prize as happened with Sir Gerhard in 2021 and Ferny Hollow the year prior. Patrick Mullins was successful aboard well fancied Facile Vega in attritional conditions two seasons ago, and whichever horse he is aboard is bound to attract extra attention.
The French-bred Jasmin De Vaux won a point-to-point before making a successful start to life under rules with a bumper win at Naas on his only start for the Closutton yard to date. He was visually extremely impressive when beating His Nibs by fifteen-lengths. It’s difficult to decipher how good the form of the race is, but fifth-place Big Stage did run respectably behind Majestic Force and Dr Eggman on hurdling debut at Punchestown, and Master Otis was just touched off at Leopardstown last weekend. The manner of the victory was spectacular however, and there is plenty to suggest that Jasmin De Vaux could take another step forward for the experience.
Jalon D’oudairies could be the best that Cullentra have to offer with two bumper wins including success over Redemption Day, after being purchased for £420,000 following a point-to-point victory. The No Risk At All gelding is an exciting prospect for connections and he holds leading claims, particularly if the ground is testing.
The Yellow Clay finished fourth behind Jeroboam Machin in the Future Stars bumper at the Dublin Racing Festival last month, a neck behind Redemption Day with You Oughta Know two-lengths-and-a-half ahead in second. He ran on well, staying on towards the finish at odds of 40/1. That was his first appearance since winning a Listed bumper at Limerick last March, and he should strip fitter for the outing.
The aforementioned You Oughta Know beat subsequent Grade Three winner Croke Park by eleven-lengths on debut before winning at the Galway Festival. He finished second in a Leopardstown Grade Two, unable to lay a glove on the winner but finishing strongly and clear as the best of the rest. He is perhaps slightly overlooked as his form is strong.
Romeo Coolio emerged as a leading bumper fancy having been purchased for £420,000 last year. By Kayf Tara, he made a winning start to his career with Elliott, recording victory over subsequent winner Sporting Glory at Fairyhouse.
The best of the British contenders appears to be Teeshan, a recent winner at Exeter who won his only point-to-point by forty-one-lengths. The manner of his victory on debut for Paul Nicholls was impressive as he was able to lengthen away from his rivals in testing conditions with ease. He has shown promise, as has stablemate Quebecois, a £320,000 purchase, but both must prove they can be competitive against their Irish counterparts.
Two potential representatives for Mrs Audrey Turley, the owner of Galopin Des Champs, are Cantico and Argento Boy, both trained by Willie Mullins. The former beat a field including Personal Ambition in a point-to-point before finishing third in a bumper at Leopardstown when he was outpaced when asked for an effort but stayed on towards the line. He improved to win easily at Navan on heavy ground, but may perhaps lack the speed required to win such a competitive bumper and may be one to keep an eye on as he steps up in trip.
Argento Boy is one of the most interesting candidates in the field, given he has only been seen once under Jody Townend, by whom he was asked plenty of questions on debut. A big, imposing type, he was made to work hard at Fairyhouse, and responded accordingly, striding towards the line to win comfortably by seven-lengths. Whilst not the most visually pleasing, it was an impressive performance from which the Jukebox Jury gelding can learn plenty, and he is a brother to Champion Bumper winner Briar Hill, which further enhances his claims.
Point-to-point winner C’est Ta Chance was narrowly beaten on rules debut at Navan by William Munny, who franked the form by recording another victory at Naas, beating promising prospects Fleur In The Park and Wingmen. Despite coming into the race on the back of a defeat, C’est Ta Chance could have enough ability to make the frame at big odds, as there was enough to like about his performance and he showed a battling attitude and a will to win.
Fleur Au Fusil is available at a big price considering she is a Grade Two winner against her own sex, and was able to beat a consistent horse in Switch From Diesel that was previously beaten by Jalon D’oudairies. Relegate was the last mare to win this race when victorious in 2018, and Fleur Au Fusil, despite being overlooked in current markets, could emulate her performance by claiming the plaudits against the talented geldings.
Others worth mentioning include Tripoli Flyer, winner of a Lingfield bumper, and Kingston Pride who was behind him that day when 8/11 favourite. Both horses shaped with plenty of promise on their most recent performance and shouldn’t be underestimated. They pulled ten-lengths clear of the others on that day, and are worthy of consideration.
Bill Joyce has done little wrong in two starts following his point-to-point after which he was sold for £225,000. He beat former Champion Bumper winner Envoi Allen’s brother, Joyau Allen, by eight-and-a-half-lengths at Exeter recently, and is yet to be asked for maximum effort. There could be plenty of further improvement to come from Jonjo O’Neill’s gelding, who is an exciting prospect.
Selection(s): Argento Boy 14/1 (EW) & You Oughta Know 9/1 (EW)
Alternatives: C’est Ta Chance 16/1 & Tripoli Flyer 50/1 (EW)
Day 2 – selections:
1:30 – Ballyburn 4/7
2:10 – Fact To File 4/5
2:50 – Jigoro 20/1 EW, Quai De Bourbon 16/1 EW
3:30 – El Fabiolo 4/9
4:10 – Delta Work 5/2
4:50 – Saint Roi 8/1 EW, Sa Fureur 10/1 EW
5:30 – You Oughta Know 9/1, Argento Boy 14/1 EW, C’est Ta Chance 16/1 EW
*prices correct at time of publication
THE CONDITIONAL 