Chepstow Racecard - Tuesday 27th December

WELCOME

Welcome to Chepstow for the 2022 Coral Welsh Grand National meeting There are eight races starting at 12 noon and ending at 3.55pm.

Bell Executive Director

A big thank you to our sponsors Coral who are today supporting this prestigious race for the 50th time. It is one of the longest running sporting sponsorships in the world. Over the last half a century we have seen some top class winners – see page 12 Coral have been fantastic supporters of Chepstow, horse racing and so many other sports and we are delighted they have agreed a three year deal to sponsor the Welsh Grand National from 2023 onwards. Simon Clare and his team are an absolute pleasure to work with.

The Covid pandemic prevented spectators attending this fixture in 2020 and 2021 so we are delighted to see customers back today. That traditional atmosphere will be back in full swing!

The Welsh National Anthem will be performed live before the big race by Rebecca Evans and Shan Cothi. We are very grateful for them giving up their time free of charge in return for a £10,000 donation from the Reuben Foundation to three charities they have selected (see page 23).

We have 29 race meetings next year with the opener on Sunday 8th January and the popular Six Nations Race Day on Saturday 25th February. We are offering some great value ticket packagesplease see the website for details. Finally, I would like to wish all of our customers a Happy and Healthy 2023.

I would like to welcome you all to what is a historic renewal of the Coral Welsh Grand National, for this marks the 50th year that Coral has sponsored the race, making it one of the longest running sporting sponsorships in the World.

Simon Clare Ladbrokes Coral PR Director

Whilst so many things in British racing have changed over the last five decades, Coral’s association with Chepstow Racecourse, and the Welsh Grand National, has been ever-present and long may it continue

It reflects Coral’s long-standing commitment to horse racing, one which Coral is now looking to strengthen even further with the launch of the Coral Racing Club, which is free-to-join for Coral customers. The Club gives members the experience of racehorse ownership of five racehorses, including the opportunity to be an owner for the day when the horses run and keep a share of any prize money won. We already have over 30,000 customers signed up.

We are also delighted to bring our Coral Virtual Race Experience to Chepstow today, where you can experience exactly what it’s like to ride in the Welsh Grand National by donning the VR Headsets on our purpose-built stage. Have a go It’s as close as you can get to being a jockey.

Have a great day and a Happy New Year

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

Phil

2022 Has Been Another Great Year For Welsh Horse Racing

another old stager, Coole Cody, won the Festival Plate, his fourth course win. The Last Day returned to form at Aintree by taking the Red Rum Chase.

Sam Thomas collected decent handicap prizes for Welsh owners Dai Walters and James and Jean Potter with Good Risk At All, Stolen Silver and Our Power. This followed his 2021 Coral Welsh Grand National victory with Iwilldoit.

Christian Williams’ nine-year-old mare Win My Wings won a brace of four mile chases; Newcastle’s Eider Chase in February and the Coral Scottish Grand National in April. This season connections entertained hopes that she might tackle the Aintree National or even the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but an injury has meant her premature retirement.

Stablemate Kitty’s Light was runner-up at Ayr, the second 1-2 for Williams in big handicap chases earlier this year. In February Kitty’s Light had finished second to Cap Du Nord in Kempton’s Coral Trophy (formerly the Racing Post Chase).

Evan Williams and Adam Wedge started 2022 in great style, with Prime Venture winning the Veterans Chase Final at Sandown. At Cheltenham

Peter Bowen maintained his fine record with the big Aintree fences by training Mac Tottie to win the Topham with his son Sean aboard, five months after he’d won the Grand Sefton. And he continued his dominance of Market Rasen’s Summer Plate by taking it for the eighth time, with James riding Francky Du Berlais.

In the autumn Sheila Lewis’s novice chaser Straw Fan Jack notched impressive wins at Ffos Las and Cheltenham.

On the flat David Evans trained Rohaan to win a second consecutive Wokingham Handicap at Royal Ascot and after a Group 3 victory there in October he signed off with a fourth place in the Champions Day Sprint. In terms of prize money, with over £800,000 earned 2022 has been far and away his best year.

David Probert has also broken his prize money record, with 140 winners yielding over £2.75 million. A Group 1 continues to elude him, but his Group 2s included Coltrane in the Doncaster Cup and King’s Lynn in the Temple Stakes, the Queen’s last Group winner.

John Flint had a good year, with his first Glorious Goodwood winner in the form of Lyndon B. Nine of the eleven horses he ran on the flat more than once won races, and his chaser Blaze A Trail won five consecutive handicaps.

Christian Williams

Evan Williams

Peter Bowen

TRACKFACTS

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

TOP COURSE TRAINERS

LEADING TRAINERS AT CHEPSTOW (2014-2019) WITH RUNNERS:

P NICHOLLS (60 wins from 214 runners, 28%) runs HALF DOZEN (12.00), STATE OF POWER (12.30), BROKEN HALO (1.05), DIXON COVE (1.40), FLEMENSTIDE and SABRINA (2.10), TRUCKERS LODGE (2.50), YOUNG BUCK (3.25), ISAAC DES OBEAUX (3.55).

E WILLIAMS (29 wins from 259 runners, 11%) runs OUT OF OFFICE (12.00), SECRET PLAN (12.30), GOLDEN WHISKY (1.05), THREE CLIFFS BAY (3.55).

P HOBBS (18 wins from 137 runners, 13%) runs BALLYDISCO and WEST PARK BOY (12.00), MUSICAL SLAVE (2.50).

TRAINERS IN FORM

MOST WINS IN THE LAST 14 DAYS:

P NICHOLLS (4 wins from 15 runners, 27%) runners listed above.

N MULHOLLAND (3 wins from 12 runners, 25%) runs CELTIC FORTUNE and INSPECTOR LYNLEY (12.00).

VENETIA WILLIAMS (3 wins from 10 runners, 30%) runs ENZO D’AIRY (1.05), GREEN BOOK (2.10), QUICK WAVE (2.50).

TOP COURSE JOCKEYS

LEADING JOCKEYS AT CHEPSTOW (2014-2019) WITH RIDES:

HARRY COBDEN (44 wins from 159 rides, 28%) rides HALF DOZEN (12.00), STATE OF POWER (12.30), BROKEN HALO (1.05), DIXON COVE (1.40), FLEMENSTIDE (2.10), REGINA DRACONES (2.50), YOUNG BUCK (3.25), ISAAC DES OBEAUX (3.55).

ADAM WEDGE (20 wins from 183 rides, 11%) rides OUT OF OFFICE (12.00), SECRET PLAN (12.30), GOLDEN WHISKY (1.05), WAYFINDER (2.50).

PADDY BRENNAN (17 wins from 88 rides, 19%) rides FILS DE ROI (1.40).

JOCKEYS IN FORM

MOST WINS IN THE LAST 14 DAYS:

HARRY COBDEN (4 wins from 11 rides, 36%) rides listed above. CHARLIE DEUTSCH (2 wins from 8 rides, 25%) rides ENZO D’AIRY (1.05), GREEN BOOK (2.10), QUICK WAVE (2.50). SAM TWISTON-DAVIES (2 wins from 11 rides, 18%) rides EQUINUS (12.00), HURRICANE LE DUN (12.30), HAVAILA (1.40), FANTASTIKAS (2.50), GUSTAVIAN (3.25), THANK YOU BLUE (3.55).

CLASSY TIPS

The following horse are running today in a race at least two grades lower than their previous race: 1.05 RED ROOKIE (down 4 grades); 1.05 ALLMANKIND (down 3); 2.10 GREEN BOOK (down 4 grades); 3.25 MISTER COFFEY (down 3 grades).

LONGEST TRAVELLERS

COMFORT ZONE (1.40) trained by J P O’Brien, THE BIG DOG (2.50) trained by Peter Fahy, REGINA DRACONES (2.50) trained by T Gibney, all Ireland. THE CHURCHILL LAD (1.40) trained by R Menzies, Sedgefield, distance of 267 miles.

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

FOUR DECADES OF CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL LEGENDS

The Coral Welsh Grand National is steeped in history with so many legendary horses, trainers, jockeys and owners experiencing success in one of the biggest races in the jumping calendar. This photo shows jockeys and trainers who have had success in the last four decades. Tom O’Brien won aboard Dream Alliance (2009) and Elegant Escape (2018). Retired champion jockey Richard Johnson and trainer Henry Daly teamed up to send out the 1999 winner Edmond with Richard also winning aboard Native River in 2016.

Retired champion trainer Martin Pipe won the race an incredible five times with Bonanza Boy (twice 1988 and 1989), Run For Free (1992), Carvill’s Hill (1991) and Riverside Boy (1993) Paul Barton rode Peter Scot to victory in 1979 for trainer David Gandolfo. We also invited Welsh rugby international George North along for the day to meet our racing legends.

Tom O’Brien

CHEPSTOW 2023 FIXTURES

Sunday 8th January

Tuesday 17th January

Friday 3rd February

Saturday 25th February (Six Nations Race Day)

Sunday 19th March (Mothering Sunday)

Thursday 23rd March

Monday 10th April (Easter Monday)

Saturday 15th April (Dragon Bet Grand National Day)

Friday 28th April (Dunraven Bowl Race Night)

Tuesday 16th May (first flat meeting)

Friday 2nd June

Saturday 10th June (Evening)

Friday 16th June

Monday 26th June

Monday 10th July (Evening)

Friday 14th July (Ladies Evening)

Thursday 20th July

Friday 28th July (Caribbean Night)

Thursday 10th August (Racing League)

Thursday 24th August

Monday 28th August (Bank Holiday Family Day)

Monday 4th September

Friday 13th October (Jump Season Opener)

Saturday 14th October (Jump Season Opener)

Tuesday 31st October

Wednesday 8th November (Military Race Day)

Friday 24th November

Saturday 9th December (Christmas Party Race Day)

Wednesday 27th December (Coral Welsh Grand National)

TODAY’S TIPS

The win selection for each race is denoted by the symbol.

RACE ONE WIN: GITCHE GUMEE

DANGER:

HALF DOZEN

GITCHE GUMEE hacked up at Stratford on his jumping bow and although then fourth at odds-on at Warwick, he was far from disgraced. Alan King’s four-year-old retains plenty of potential and is fancied to regain the winning thread, possibly at the main expense of Half Dozen, who finished a good third at Newbury on his latest outing. Equinus didn’t jump with fluency on his hurdling debut at Uttoxeter, but he ought to fare better with that experience under his belt.

RACE TWO WIN: HYMAC DANGER: RUSSIAN RULER

Russian Ruler finished a creditable third at Newbury on his return to action and remains capable of better, although preference is for HYMAC. Harry Fry’s six-year-old failed to justify favouritism on his Ffos Las comeback, but he should take a marked step forward on his second start following wind surgery. Saint Davy landed a bumper at Carlisle in October and makes obvious appeal on his hurdling bow, as does State Of Power, who struck between the flags in Ireland.

RACE THREE WIN: GOLDEN WHISKY

DANGER:

ENZO D’AIRY

GOLDEN WHISKY was well beaten over an inadequate 1m7f on his return to action at Wetherby last month, but the Evan Williams-trained nine-year-old will be much happier over this distance. He landed the corresponding event from a 2lb higher mark last year (1lb out of the handicap now) and he receives a tentative vote as he bids to retain his crown. Recent C&D winner Enzo D’Airy demands the utmost respect, as do Fugitif and Silver Hallmark.

RACE FOUR WIN: SCRIPTWRITER DANGER: PERSEUS WAY

It is hard to look past the hat-trick seeking SCRIPTWRITER, who caught the eye when securing a comfortable victory at Cheltenham in a Grade 2 and is fancied to follow up here, despite having to shoulder a 5lb penalty. The reopposing runner-up Perseus Way should not be underestimated having bolted up at Leicester subsequently, while Irish raider Comfort Zone is another to consider having finished a creditable third in a Grade 3 at Fairyhouse last time.

RACE FIVE WIN: GREEN BOOK DANGER: FLEMENSTIDE

Flemenstide was last seen finishing a respectable second at Exeter in March and has claims on his return but a chance can be taken with GREEN BOOK, who looked grossly outpaced in a competitive Grade 1 at Aintree in April. He has proven to run well fresh in the past and must not be taken lightly. Just A Dime, who accounted for Flemenstide in that Exeter race, can build on a pleasing second at Carlisle last month and completes the shortlist.

RACE SIX WIN: THE BIG DOG DANGER: QUICK WAVE

Quick Wave impressed when making a triumphant return to action at Sandown earlier this month and she is respected despite picking up a 4lb penalty, while The Galloping Bear and Ask Me Early also have scope and can go well. However, preference is for THE BIG DOG, who is at the top of his game after winning his last two starts in a determined manner and he is taken to atone for a luckless run in last year’s renewal.

RACE SEVEN WIN: MISTER COFFEY DANGER: DALAMOI

MISTER COFFEY didn’t fire on all cylinders when favourite for the Topham at Aintree when last seen, but he had previously shown progressive form over fences and is worth another chance at this level. It’s worth remembering that he was a good second in the Kim Muir at last season’s Festival and having won when fresh before now, he should be hard to beat on his return to the fray. Dalamoi and Gustavian complete the shortlist.

RACE EIGHT WIN: : ISAAC DES OBEAUX DANGER: CAPE VIDAL

Cape Vidal finished a fine third in a Listed event at Cheltenham and is one to take seriously in his bid to enhance his profile. However, preference is for ISAAC DES OBEAUX, a 100,000-euro purchase who made the best possible start to his career in a bumper here last month. Idefix De Ciergues and Thank You Blue have also shown promise and add further spice to what ought to be an informative contest.

PREVIOUS WINNERS PARADE PARADE OF PREVIOUS WINNERS OF WELSH GRAND NATIONAL - 11:15AM

POTTERS CORNER

Was trained by Welsh trainer and ex jockey Christian Williams. He won the race in 2019 and had previously won two other races at Chepstow including his British debut. He won the Midland’s Grand National at Uttoxeter just nine months before he became the first locally trained winner of the Welsh National in 46 years. Potters Corner made a mark in racing history without ever leaving his home winning the Virtual Grand National in 2020 when the Grand National was cancelled. He has had a great career spanning 35 races achieving 7 wins and gaining him a reputation as one of the top staying chasers. At 12 years old he has been retired this season and remains close to home in Bridgend, being cared for by Harriet Tudor.

NATIVE RIVER

Native River is a striking chestnut with four white socks and he boasts an impressive career with 14 wins on his record. A winner of the Welsh National in 2016, the same race he retired from racing in last year. Impressively he brought his trainer Colin Tizzard, and owners Garth and Anne Broom, plenty of joy in the 2016/2017 season winning the Hennessy Gold Cup and the Denman Chase at Newbury, alongside the Welsh National. He also proved himself further in 2018 winning one of national hunt racing’s most prestigious chases, the Cheltenham Gold Cup Following a fantastic career on the track Native River has continued to contribute to the racing industry, retiring to Tom Malone in Taunton, and being cared for by Emma Vine who parades him on the day He has begun to retrain in dressage and most recently has had a look at a few show jumps, taking everything in his stride.

EMPERORS CHOICE

Emperors Choice is a nine-time winner, a fan of chasing on heavy ground. He won the Welsh National in 2014 by a short head in a thrilling finish, showing his class by beating previous (2013) winner Monbeg Dude. He went on to run in the race three more times in his career. He was trained throughout by Venetia Williams for owners The Bellamy Partnership. He had his last win in 2017 in a class 2 contest at Haydock Park before retiring from racing in 2018. Since his retirement Emperors Choice has taken up residency in Monmouth with Sharon Neville who leads him up on the day and they have built a lovely relationship

Native River Emperors Choice

Potters Corner

THE CORAL COMMITTED TO SAFER GAMBLING NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE)

(Class 4)

for novice four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £8300

Owners Prize Money Winner £3463; Second £1732; Third £865; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1 GITCHE GUMEE (GB) (41)

B g Clovis du Berlais (FR) - Fabrika (Presenting)

Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Breeder: Mr & Mrs D. Futter Sponsor: Goodwin Racing Ltd

4 11 7

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap Form: 1-14 D BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Overcame inexperience on only start in bumpers and again looked a good prospect sent hurdling after 7 months off at Stratford (16.3f). Lost his unbeaten record with a bit of a whimper at Warwick since but worth another chance. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 125

2 BALLYDISCO (IRE)

(21)

B g Presenting - Alphadite (IRE) (Alphabatim (USA))

Owner: Mr N. Sutton Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Amanda Lindsell Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

5 11 0

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK stars, PINK and ROYAL BLUE diabolo on sleeves, WHITE cap Form: FP4-262

TIMEFORM VIEW Maiden Irish pointer who improved on hurdling debut when second of 14 in novice hurdle at Uttoxeter (15.8f, soft) 21 days ago, running on. Respected. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating - Mr Ben Sutton (7)

3 CELTIC FORTUNE (IRE) (32) 5 11 0

B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Rhinestone Cowgirl (IRE) (Presenting)

Owner: Mr Donald Bell Trainer: Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke Breeder: Joe Campbell Sponsor: Tote

Colours: LIGHT GREEN, YELLOW seams, LIGHT GREEN sleeves, check cap Form: 4-50B

TIMEFORM VIEW Some promise in a bumper but not so much in 2 maiden hurdles.Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Harry Reed

4 EQUINUS (IRE) (21) 4 11 0

B g Shantou (USA)

Tom Bellamy

6 HALF DOZEN (IRE) (32) 5 11 0

B g Sageburg (IRE) - Sixofone (IRE) (Tikkanen (USA))

Owner: John and Jess Dance Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Danny Doran Sponsor: Vertem Asset Management

Colours: WHITE, MAROON and PURPLE striped sleeves. Form: 6-63

TIMEFORM VIEW In need of the experience only start in bumpers and built on hurdling debut promise when third in 12-runner maiden at Newbury (16.3f) 32 days ago Open to further improvement. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating - Harry Cobden

7 INCHESTER D’AMSYL (FR) (-) 4 11 0

B g No Risk At All (FR) - Virgine Place (FR) (Chichicastenango (FR))

Owner: Mr A. F. Nolan Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: S.A.R.L. Poulinieres.Com Sponsor: Wasdell Group

Colours: RED, WHITE cross belts, WHITE sleeves, RED stars, WHITE cap, RED star Form:

TIMEFORM VIEW £25,000 3-y-o, No Risk At All gelding. Dam, 17f chase winner in France, half-sister to fair hurdler/ fairly useful chaser in France (stayed 3 1/4m) Quick Fire. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating - Jonjo O’Neill Jr

8 INSPECTOR LYNLEY (GB) (33) 5 11 0

B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Duchess of Seville (Duke of Marmalade (IRE))

Owner: Mrs H. R. Cross Trainer: Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke Breeder: Mrs H. R. Cross & Mrs S. A. Keys

Colours: ORANGE, GREY cross belts. Form: 0-54P

TIMEFORM VIEW No solid form. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - James Best

9 INVINCIBLE DE MEE (FR) (6) 4 11 0

CHIDLEY (FR) (87) 4 11 0

Colours:

13MR BIGGS (GB) (21) 5 11 0

B g Telescope (IRE) - Linagram (Classic Cliche (IRE))

Owner: P14 Medical Ltd T/A Platform 14

Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: Shade Oak Stud Sponsor: Biowave

Colours: MAROON, GREY stars on sleeves, MAROON cap, GREY star. Form: 6P

TIMEFORM VIEW Shaped as if in need of experience when sixth of 9 in novice hurdle at Bangor but showed nothing after 7 months off at Uttoxeter Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Kevin Brogan

14OUT OF OFFICE (IRE) (55) 4 11 0

B g Shirocco (GER) - Shuil Dorcha (IRE) (Bob Back (USA))

Owner: Mr & Mrs William Rucker Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Breeder: Mrs Marilyn Syme Sponsor: Tote

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoop Form: 1-4

TIMEFORM VIEW £160,000 4-y-o, Shirocco gelding. Half-brother to smart hurdler/chaser Bright New Dawn and useful bumper winner/useful 2m hurdle winner Lyrical Theatre. Won only start in Irish points and shaped encouragingly starting out under Rules when fourth of 15 in novice hurdle over C&D. May well do better. Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA RatingAdam Wedge

15TORULA (IRE) (42)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Mighty Millie (IRE) (Presenting)

Owner: Mrs G. Morgan Trainer: Ben Pauling, Naunton Breeder: William Quinn Sponsor: Fitzdares

5 11 0

Colours: BEIGE, DARK GREEN hoop and armlets, MAROON cap Form: 2-6

TIMEFORM VIEW £55,000 buy, from the family of smart hurdler/very smart chaser (stayed 2 1/2m) Defy Logic. Runner-up sole start in Irish points (Jan 16) but beaten a ong way when sixth of 12 in novice hurdle at Lingfield (19.5f, soft) on NH debut 42 days ago, not knocked about. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA RatingBeau Morgan

16WEST PARK BOY (GB) (32)

B g Cannock Chase (USA) - Desirable Rhythm (IRE) (Hernando (FR))

Owner: Two Hendred Partnership Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: T. R. Beadle Sponsor: Philip Hobbs Racing

4 11 0

Colours: LIGHT BLUE and PURPLE (quartered), WHITE sleeves, WHITE cap, PURPLE star Form: 0

TIMEFORM VIEW £27,000 half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Desirable Court (2m-2 3/4m winner and fair 23f chase winner Hills of Connemara. 28/1, eighth of 12 in novice hurdle at Newbury (16.3f, good to soft) on NH debut 32 days ago Star RatingHIIII Official BHA RatingSean Houlihan

(7)

THE REUBEN FOUNDATION

The Reuben Foundation, a charitable organisation set up by the owners of the Arena Racing Company Simon and David Reuben, has donated £10,000 to three Welsh charities supported by today’s singers of the Welsh National Anthem, Rebecca Evans and Shan Cothi. www.amserjustintime.org www.sheltercymru.org.uk www.tyhapus.org.uk

THE CORAL BET BUNDLES MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE) (Class 4)

for maiden four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £8300

Owners Prize Money Winner £3463; Second £1732; Third £865; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1

HURRICANE LE DUN (FR) (269) 5 11 4

B g Doctor Dino (FR) - Heviz (FR) (Trempolino (USA))

Owner: Dingwall, Draper, Higginson, Stirling Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Breeder: S.A.R.L. Ste D’Entrainement Ouvry F. Sponsor: Unibet

Colours: WHITE and BLACK check, YELLOW sleeves, BLACK stars, YELLOW cap Form: 05-

TIMEFORM VIEW Didn’t show much in a couple of bumpers last season but couldn’t be in better hands and likely to leave that form well behind soon enough now switched to hurdles. Still, Russian Ruler is very much the stable No 1 here. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA RatingSam Twiston-Davies

2 HYMAC (IRE)

(65)

B g Ask - Katie Cranny (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA))

Owner: Denny, Stuart-Jervis and Walsh Trainer: Harry Fry, Corscombe Breeder: Patrick McCarthy Sponsor: Manhole Covers Ltd, Grosvenor Sport

6 11 4

Colours: BLACK, MAROON diamond, WHITE cap Form: 221-3 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Second to subsequent winners under Rules both starts in Irish points before landing a bumper at Newton Abbot in March. Found less than looked likely when third of 14 on return/hurdles bow at Ffos Las (2 1/2m, good to soft) but he remains of interest. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

3 JAIL NO BAIL (IRE)

(39)

B g Mahler - Kittys Oscar (IRE) (Oscar (IRE))

Owner: Bryan Drew & Friends, Chapman & Kingston Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Breeder: Gerard Coleman Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk

5 11 4

Colours: ORANGE, DARK BLUE star, ORANGE sleeves, DARK BLUE stars, DARK BLUE cap Form: 5

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/chaser Paddy’s Field and didn’t shape badly on debut when fifth in a 13-runner bumper here last month. Should have a future over jumps but there will be easier opportunities than this. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

4 KEADEN HILL (IRE) (52) 5 11 4

B g Kingston Hill - Holy Vow (IRE) (Luso)

Owner: Mrs C. S. Wilson

Trainer: Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Breeder: Mr Richard Busher Sponsor: Dragonbet

Colours: DARK GREEN, YELLOW spots,

Sean Bowen

Aidan Coleman

6 RARE BEAR (GB) (-) 4 11 4

B g Schiaparelli (GER) - Trifollet (Kirkwall)

Owner: Mr Andrew J. Martin

Trainer: Andrew Martin, Chipping Norton Breeder: A. J. Martin Sponsor: Andy Martin Racing

Colours: WHITE, BLACK chevron, BLACK sleeves, WHITE diamonds, quartered cap. Form:

TIMEFORM VIEW Out of a 2 1/2m-23f chase winner Market should offer up some clues as to what is expected on debut but, chances are, he will come on for the run. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

7 RUSSIAN RULER (IRE) (32) 5 11 4

B or Br g Sholokhov (IRE) - Hot Choice (Zafeen (FR))

Owner: Unique Financial Racing Partnership Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Breeder: Thomas Norris Sponsor: Unibet

Colours: BLACK, LIGHT BLUE cap Form: 135-3

TIMEFORM VIEW Warwick bumper winner who was fifth in a Kempton Grade 2 novice on second of his 2 hurdles starts last term. Did too much too soon when third on return (first run following a wind op) at Newbury (20.5f, good to soft) and sets a good standard here. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 125

8 SAINT DAVY (FR) (75) 5 11 4

B g Balko (FR) - Saintejoie (FR) (Poliglote)

Owner: Mrs Gay Smith Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: A. & C. Choupeault & E. Rineau Sponsor: Ashford Stud, Wasdell Group

Colours: WHITE, MAUVE stars. Form: 1-1

TIMEFORM VIEW Fetched £270,000 after winning sole point start and justified favouritism when landing a Carlisle bumper (17.2f, good to soft) on Rules debut in October Likely there’s better to come now upped in trip/switched to hurdles and he’s an intriguing candidate. Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating -

9 SECRET PLAN (IRE)

(55)

B g Ocovango - Oscar’s Reprieve (IRE) (Oscar (IRE))

Owner: Mr & Mrs William Rucker Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Breeder: The Beeches Stud Ltd Sponsor: Tote

4 11 4

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, PINK hoop Form: 4

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to 3 winners, including winning hurdler/useful chaser Secret Reprieve and fair hurdler/chaser The Composeur Encouraging debut fourth of 13 in a bumper here (2m, good to soft) and should have a future over jumps. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

10STATE OF POWER (IRE) (317) 5 11 4

B g Westerner - Strong Statement (IRE) (Trans Island)

Owner: Gordon & Su Hall Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mr Neil Roche Sponsor: Morson Group

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, ROYAL BLUE spots, halved sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap Form: F1-

TIMEFORM VIEW Wide-margin winner of sole completed start in maiden points and of strong interest on Rules debut for the Paul Nicholls yard. One to monitor closely in the betting. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating - Harry Cobden

11TECHNOLOGY (IRE)

(292)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Little Fashionista (IRE) (Presenting)

Owner: McNeill Family & Stone Family Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Breeder: Godfrey Greene Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions

5 11 4

Colours: LIGHT BLUE, PURPLE star and star on cap Form: 43-

TIMEFORM VIEW Stepped up on debut effort when third of 12 in a Wincanton bumper (15.2f) on latest start in March. The pair that beat him that day look pretty decent and he’s bound to have been well-schooled ahead of this hurdles debut.

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA RatingA. P. Heskin

12THE BIG REVEAL (IRE) (58) 4 11 4

Ch g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Fuel Queen (IRE) (Flemensfirth (USA))

Owner: Foxhills Racing Limited Trainer: Grace Harris, Shirenewton Breeder: Robert O’Callaghan

Sponsor: Grace Harris Racing

Colours: RED, ORANGE diamond, ORANGE sleeves, RED stars, ORANGE cap, RED diamonds. Form: 3

TIMEFORM VIEW This sole start in maiden points in Ireland. Probably best watched on Rules debut. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Conor Ring (3)

James Martin (7)

Nico de Boinville

Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

Adam Wedge

13WHYNOTNOWROY (IRE) (52) 4 11 4

Ch g Notnowcato - Midnight Lira (Midnight Legend)

Owner: Mr Brian Derrick

Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Breeder: B. A. Derrick

Sponsor: Thorne + Derrick

Colours: YELLOW, ORANGE star, ORANGE sleeves, YELLOW stars, YELLOW cap, ORANGE star Form: 3

TIMEFORM VIEW Clear signs of ability when third in a 9-runner Wincanton bumper (15.2f, good) last month. Plenty of stamina in his pedigree, so this stiffer test should help now switched to hurdles but he’s probably more one for the longer term. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

14BLACKHORSE LADY (IRE) (41) 5 10 11

B m Fame And Glory - Discover Wexford (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE))

Owner: Mr S. Rushworth

Trainer: Mitchell Hunt, Bridgwater Breeder: William Devereux

Sponsor: Gmr Couriers Ltd

Colours: DARK GREEN, RED chevrons, WHITE and DARK GREEN chevrons on sleeves, DARK GREEN cap, RED star Form: 32-40

TIMEFORM VIEW Shade too keen when fourth in a Bangor bumper on debut in October There was some promise in that effort but she took a sizeable step in the wrong direction at Warwick next time. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 16/11/2022 it was reported that the horse hung left handed. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating -

15TANGO ARUMBA (IRE) (60)

B m Shantou (USA) - Thricha (IRE) (Saffron Walden (FR))

Owner: Mrs Jane Gerard-Pearse

Trainer: David Pipe, Wellington

Breeder: Mary M. Brennan

Sponsor: W & S Recycling

5 10 11

Colours: EMERALD GREEN and LIGHT BLUE stripes, diabolo on sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap, LIGHT BLUE diamond. Form: 1-15

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful sole outing in Irish points and justified favouritism (11/8) when making all on Rules debut in a Newton Abbot bumper in June. Likely to come on for his hurdles bow fifth at Uttoxeter (2 1/2m, good to soft) and capable of better Star RatingHHIII Official BHA RatingDavid Noonan

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 15 (EXACTA)

Race Summary:

Having landed an Irish point last year, SAINT DAVY maintained his unbeaten record when seeing off 7 rivals (dual subsequent hurdles winner General Officer among them) in decisive fashion in a Carlisle bumper in October. He is clearly promising and is taken to make it 3-3 on this hurdles debut Russian Ruler has experience in this sphere to draw upon and should have a significant role to play, while point-winner State of Power, Hymac and Technology are others to consider.

Ben Godfrey (3)

Sean Houlihan

John Heathcock

Chepstow racecourse would like to thank Senior Medical Officer John Heathcock for all of his hard work and dedication at the racecourse over the past 40 years. The racecourse and all of your colleagues will miss you dearly All the best in your retirement, enjoy!

CORAL SPONSORSHIP 50 YEARS OF THE WELSH GRAND NATIONAL CORAL SPONSORSHIP

When Corals sponsored the Welsh Grand National for the first time on 17 February 1973, little did they know that they would still be supporting the race almost 50 years later. In that period the roll of honour has produced winners of six Aintree Grand Nationals and four Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Corals stuck with the race through the rest of the 1970s despite its abandonment four times in five years due to waterlogging or snow. The weather had relented in 1976 when the winner was Rag Trade, owned by

were kinder. Corbiere won in 1982 for Jenny Pitman, the first success in the race for a female trainer. Later that

Mr Teasy Weasy Raymond, the first celebrity hairdresser. Six weeks later he confirmed the form by denying Red Rum a third win in the Grand National. Fortunately, Rummy was able to complete his Aintree treble a year later.

The Welsh National was moved to the Christmas period, when conditions

Martin

season Corbiere was the winner of the Grand National. At the end of 1983 Jenny won the Welsh National again, this time with Burrough Hill Lad, who was carrying just 10 stone 9 pounds. In hindsight he was a certainty, for he was destined to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup three months later.

So far Bonanza Boy has been the only horse to win the race in consecutive years. He loved heavy ground and ran away with it twice, scoring by 12 lengths in 1988 with 10 stone 1 on his back, and by 15 when burdened with 11 stone 11 the following year.

One of the best horses to win the Coral Welsh Grand National was fated never to take either of steeplechasing’s most prestigious races. Carvill’s Hill

Pipe

Dream Alliance

was an impressive-looking specimen who made all the running carrying top weight in 1991, winning eased down by 20 lengths. If he had remained injury-free he would surely have won the Gold Cup. His trainer, the 15-times champion Martin Pipe, regarded him as the best horse he ever handled.

The 2009 Coral Welsh Grand National was the pinnacle of a rags-to-riches story so incredible that it was made into a film. A group of villagers who met in the working men’s club in the Welsh Valleys formed a syndicate to buy a racehorse. They spent £300 on him and called him Dream Alliance. Their dreams came true, for he won £138,000 in prize money including the Welsh National.

2010 saw the multiple champion jockey A P McCoy’s only victory in the race, aboard the future Gold Cup winner

Synchronised. Native River was one of the rare top-weight winners of the race in 2016. He was only six at the time, and this marked his arrival as a high class performer. He went on to come out on top in an epic contest to land the 2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup. A handsome, bold-jumping chestnut, he won 14 of his 32 races.

There was a double first in 2017. James Bowen became the youngest rider to win, on Raz De Maree, the oldest horse. Their ages at the time were 16 and 13 respectively.

In 2019 Potters Corner was the first Welsh-trained, owned and ridden winner for 91 years. He was strongly fancied for Aintree as well, and although Covid prevented that from taking place, millions of TV viewers watched his computerised self win the Virtual Grand National.

The last three winners of the Coral Welsh Grand National have been trained in Wales and the home team is sure to have several horses running for them this year, eager to maintain their winning streak in Wales’s premier race.

Native River

Synchronised

Potters Corner

Third Race 1.05

THE CORAL GET CLOSER TO THE ACTION HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (GBB RACE)

(Class 2)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £35000

Owners Prize Money Winner £13912; Second £6954; Third £3479; Fourth £1739; Fifth £868; Sixth £434. (Penalty Value £18210.50) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1 ALLMANKIND (GB)

(23)

B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Wemyss Bay (Sadler’s Wells (USA))

Owner: The Gredley Family Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Breeder: Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd Sponsor: Unex Group

6 12 0

Colours: YELLOW, BLACK and YELLOW striped sleeves, WHITE cap Form: 315P0-0 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Won 5 of his first 6 starts over fences, including the Old Roan Chase at Aintree last October Disappointing since, though, and showed little on return (fit from the Flat) in the Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon earlier this month. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 154

2 FRANCKY DU BERLAIS (FR)

(24)

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Legende du Luy (FR) (Bonnet Rouge (FR))

Owner: Mr Roddy Owen Trainer: Peter Bowen, Haverfordwest Breeder: Mr Jean-Marc Lucas & Mr Franck Champion Sponsor: Foodnet Ltd

Andrews

9 11 5

Colours: WHITE, RED chevron, EMERALD GREEN and RED striped sleeves, RED cap Form: 531200 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Found plenty for pressure when landing a second win in the valuable Summer Plate at Market Rasen in July However, he has failed to fire both starts since returning from a break and needs to bounce back in a major way Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating 145

3 PHOENIX WAY (IRE) (241) 9 11 4

B g Stowaway - Arcuate (Arch (USA))

Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Harry Fry, Corscombe Breeder: Mr Eugene McDermott Sponsor: Grosvenor Sport

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap Form: 4/021F-P

TIMEFORM VIEW Doubled his tally over fences at Ascot in January but failed to complete on his next 2 starts. Has few miles on the clock for a horse of

Bridget

Sean Bowen

6 RED ROOKIE (GB)

(287)

Ch g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Auction Belle (Auction House (USA))

Owner: The Hawk Inn Syndicate 3

Trainer: Emma Lavelle, Marlborough Breeder: Mr R. P. Phillips

Sponsor: Hatherden Horse Transport

7 11 0

Colours: WHITE, GREY spots, WHITE cap Form: 14/2F1F-

TIMEFORM VIEW Off the mark over fences in a 2m Hereford novice in January and was set to run very creditably when falling at the last in Arkle at Cheltenham on final start last season. Probably has more to offer in this sphere. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 140

7 THE BIG BITE (IRE)

(31)

B g Scorpion (IRE) - Thanks Noel (IRE) (Tel Quel (FR))

Owner: Mr N T Griffith & H M Haddock Trainer: Henry Oliver, Kinnersley Breeder: T. & S. Duggan

9 10 13

Colours: DARK BLUE, PINK hoop, PINK sleeves, DARK BLUE armlets, PINK cap Form: 6/UP24-P C

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful sort on his day and may have have found trip too far when pulled up in Rehearsal Chase on his return last month. Dropped 3lb since and wouldn’t be without a chance if on-song. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 139

8 BROKEN HALO (GB) (52) 7 10 9

B g Kayf Tara - Miss Invincible (Invincible Spirit (IRE))

Owner: Giraffa Racing - BH Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Aiden Murphy Sponsor: Run To Global Ltd

Colours: BLACK, BEIGE and BLACK striped sleeves. Form: P3141-0 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Low-mileage 7-y-o who signed off last season by landing a 3-runner novice chase at Fontwell (21.6f, good to soft) in March. Well held on return in the Grand Sefton at Aintree but 2lb lower now and this isn’t quite so competitive. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 135

9 FUGITIF (FR)

(46)

B g Ballingarry (IRE) - Turiane (FR) (Arvico (FR))

Owner: Mr Carl Hinchy & Dr Emad Hussain Trainer: Richard Hobson, Little Rissington Breeder: Mr Andre Rousseau Sponsor: R H Bloodstock

7 10 7

Colours: VIOLET, WHITE cap Form: P1440-2

TIMEFORM VIEW Hurdles winner who gained second chase success at Newcastle (2m) in January Creditable reappearance second of 8 over 2m at Cheltenham (good) last month, form which has been boosted since, but he’s struggled both previous attempts at around this trip STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 11/11/2022 it was reported that the horse hung left handed. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 133

10LE CAMELEON (GB) (21)

B or Br g Great Pretender (IRE) - Countess Camilla (Bob’s Return (IRE))

Owner: The Pretenders & Partner Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Breeder: H. Davies & R. Davies Sponsor: Kendall & Davies

7 10 5

Colours: PINK, DARK BLUE chevrons, hooped sleeves, PINK cap Form: 1414-1F CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful twice in the second half of last season and jumped well when making a winning reappearance at Warwick (2 1/2m, good) in October Faller at Fontwell last time and probably a shade too high in the weights for now. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 131

11ENZO D’AIRY (FR) (24)

B g Anzillero (GER) - Panzara d’Airy (FR) (Cadoubel (FR))

Owner: Dr Moira Hamlin Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Breeder: Mr Claude-Yves Pelsy Sponsor: Faucets Limited

TIMEFORM

TIMEFORM

8 10 2

Colours: RED, YELLOW star, halved sleeves and star on cap Form: 13136/-1 CD

12GOLDEN WHISKY (IRE) (34)

Tom Bellamy

Aidan Coleman

Harry Cobden

Gavin Sheehan

David Noonan

Charlie Deutsch

Adam Wedge

your horse

isthe thatmatters is onlyhorse

Fourth Race 1.40

THE CORAL FINALE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) (Class

1)

for juvenile three yrs old Total race value £50000

Owners Prize Money Winner £22810; Second £9325; Third £4660; Fourth £2330. (Penalty Value £29720) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1 MEDYAF (GB) (45) 11 5

B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Questabella (GER) (Rock of Gibraltar (IRE))

Owner: Craig & Laura Buckingham Trainer: Dan Skelton, Alcester Breeder: Gestut Gorlsdorf Sponsor: Manor Farm Bloodstock

Colours: BLACK, ORANGE star Form: 114 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Sold from the Gosdens for just 9,000 gns after failing to win in 4 Flat starts and has proved to be a bargain, winning first 2 starts over hurdles, including a listed race at Wetherby. Even better form when 10 lengths fourth to Scriptwriter in Cheltenham Grade 2 since. 5lb penalty Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 123

2 SCRIPTWRITER (IRE)

B g Churchill (IRE) - Pivotalia (IRE) (Pivotal)

Owner: Mark & Maria Adams Trainer: Milton Harris, Warminster Breeder: Mr Brian O’Neill Sponsor: Bresbet

(45)

Andrews

11 5

Colours: RED, LIGHT BLUE stars, YELLOW cap, LIGHT BLUE stars. Form: 11 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on the Flat and looks set to reach an even higher level over hurdles, leaving behind the bare form of his Sedgefield win when landing 8-runner Cheltenham Grade 2 in November by 2 1/4 lengths from Perseus Way. Should progress again and player despite his penalty Tongue tied first time. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 130

3 COMFORT ZONE (IRE) (23)

B g Churchill (IRE) - Iveagh Gardens (IRE) (Mastercraftsman (IRE))

Owner: Mr John P. McManus

Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland Breeder: Mrs Noreen McManus Sponsor: Mr O’brien

11 0

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap Form: 13 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful Flat performer who impressed when making a successful start over hurdles at Navan in November Better form when third in Fairyhouse Grade 3 a week later

4 FILS DE ROI (FR) (58)

Bridget

Sean Bowen

6 JUPITER ALLEN (FR) (36)

Ch g Castle du Berlais (FR) - Bienvenue Allen (FR) (Network (GER))

Owner: Mr Ron Watts

Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton Breeder: Bruno Vagne Sponsor: Culverhill Farm Racing

11 0

Colours: LIGHT BLUE, BLACK hoop, WHITE sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap. Form: 21 D

TIMEFORM VIEW French-bred who confirmed the promise of his Newton Abbot debut second when going one better at Kempton (2m, soft) 5 weeks later Will need to advance his form considerably to go close at this higher level but he does have the potential for better Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

7 PERSEUS WAY (IRE) (30) 11 0

Ch g Sea The Stars (IRE) - Bint Almatar (USA) (Kingmambo (USA))

Owner: Mr O. S. Harris Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: Godolphin Sponsor: Tote

Colours: YELLOW, DARK BLUE seams, striped sleeves, YELLOW cap Form: 21 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful on Flat, battling well to win a Newbury handicap in September Ran a cracker pitched into a Grade 2 on hurdle debut when chasing home Scriptwriter at Cheltenham then easily landed short odds at Leicester Represents last year’s winning connections. Much respected. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 125

8 SPARTAN ARMY (IRE) (34)

B g Highland Reel (IRE) - Trianon (Nayef (USA))

Owner: McNeill Family & Patrick&Scott Bryceland Trainer: Alan King, Barbury Castle Breeder: Sean Connolly Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions

11 0

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, WHITE hoops, MAROON sleeves and cap Form: 1 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Bought out of Joseph O’Brien’s yard for 170,000 gns after winning a Down Royal maiden on the Flat in June and looked a potentially very useful recruit to hurdling when sluicing up at Wetherby (2m, soft) last month. Can make his mark at a higher level. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating -

9 THE CHURCHILL LAD (IRE) (39) 11 0

B g Churchill (IRE) - Imalwayshotforyou (USA) (Discreetly Mine (USA))

Owner: Flying High and Blacklock Trainer: Rebecca Menzies, Sedgefield Breeder: CGD Syndicate Sponsor: Bluegrass Horse Feeds

Colours: LIGHT GREEN, RED chevron, RED sleeves, LIGHT GREEN diamonds, LIGHT GREEN and RED quartered cap. Form: 121 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair Flat winner for this yard who has taken well to hurdling, winning juveniles at Cartmel in August and Catterick in November Has plenty more on his plate now stepping up in class, though. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 118 Nathan Moscrop

10DIXON COVE (GER) (24) 10 12

B f Earl of Tinsdal (GER) - Dakara (Dansili)

Owner: John White & Anne Underhill Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mr Gestut Aesculap Sponsor: Morson Group

Colours: MAROON and YELLOW

halved sleeves, YELLOW

Form: 32-311

David Noonan

Jamie Moore

A. P. Heskin

PLAY SMARTER

Havaila

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

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

Thompson BSc, BVetMed, MRCVS

A Fond Farewell!!

The Welsh National Meeting here at Chepstow marks the last meeting for one of our long-standing Veterinary Surgeons David after 25 years of looking after the racehorses at both Chepstow and Bath racecourses.

David is a familiar face at the races and his trademark calm manner and unflappable approach to clinical veterinary work has made him an extremely popular member of the team here. David, who will also be retiring from his day job at Abbey Equine Clinic at the end of this year, will be much missed and the whole team would like to wish him all the very best for his retirement. Thank you David for your hard work, commitment and veterinary expertise…we hope you can now enjoy plenty of racing from the social side of the railings!

David

5

THE CORAL RACING CLUB HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (GBB RACE)

(Class 2)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £30000

Owners Prize Money Winner £11925; Second £5961; Third £2982; Fourth £1491; Fifth £744; Sixth £372. (Penalty Value £15609) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1 FLIGHT DECK (IRE)

(30)

B g Getaway (GER) - Rate of Knots (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE))

Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: Mrs Noreen McManus Sponsor: Wasdell Group

8 12 0

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap Form: 4/151-P2 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive last season and left his inauspicious reappearance effort behind when finding just one too strong in a Carlisle handicap (25f, good to soft) recently Possibilities off 2lb higher, particularly given that further progress is not out of the question. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 137

2 GREEN BOOK (FR)

(263)

B g Authorized (IRE) - Mantissa (Oratorio (IRE))

Owner: Lady Price, C Shaw, C Boylan & I Tagg Trainer: Venetia Williams, Hereford Breeder: S.A. Le Thenney Sponsor: Faucets Limited

5 11 12

Colours: RED, BLACK stars, diabolo on sleeves and stars on cap Form: 1U1450-

TIMEFORM VIEW Improver on Flat in 2021 and has continued on the up switched to hurdles, winning 3 handicaps at up to 3m last season. Also a creditable fifth in the Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival. Can’t have been right at Aintree final start. Respected on return to action after wind surgery Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 135

3

LYNWOOD GOLD (IRE) (49)

Gr or Ro g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Witch of Fife (USA) (Lear Fan (USA))

Owner: Miss Daisy Hitchins Trainer: Brian Barr, Sherborne Breeder: Epona Bloodstock Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW

7 11 12

Colours: ROYAL BLUE and YELLOW check. Form: 63/P0-01

Colours:

BLUE

Ryan Sponsor: Burnham Plastering & Drylining Ltd

BLUE

03-UFPP

5 WEST TO THE BRIDGE (IRE)

(halved),

Jonjo O’Neill Jr

Charlie Deutsch

6 BELLS OF PETERBORO (IRE) (24) 7 11 0

Gr g Carlotamix (FR) - Power of Future (GER) (Definite Article)

Owner: Mr S. Grys & Mr M. O’Boyle

Trainer: Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge Breeder: J. B. Bloodstock Ltd

Sponsor: Designation Limited, Hercules Direct Marketing Ltd, Dragonbet

Colours: YELLOW, LIGHT GREEN stripe, halved sleeves, LIGHT GREEN and YELLOW quartered cap Form: 53-4223 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Easy winner off this race off 3lb lower 12 months ago Has been campaigned over fences this term, performing with credit when placed on his last 3 starts (3m here latest). Much respected back hurdling for yard seeking a third win in this since 2019. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 123

7 FLEMENSTIDE (IRE) (291) 7 10 13

B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Keep Face (FR) (Poliglote)

Owner: Mr P K Barber and Mr P J Vogt

Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat

Breeder: Louis G. Vambeck

Sponsor: Morson Group

Colours: DARK GREEN, WHITE chevron, LIGHT GREEN sleeves, DARK GREEN and WHITE check cap Form: 210/122-

TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper winner who made a successful hurdles debut in a Ascot novice (21.5f) in November 2021. Runner-up both subsequent starts last season and returns as an unexposed sort from a top stable. Interesting to see how strong the betting vibes are. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 122

8 JUST A DIME (IRE)

(30)

B g Doyen (IRE) - Somebody’s Darling (IRE) (Royal Anthem (USA))

Owner: Mr Adrian Paterson Trainer: Ben Clarke, Beaminster Breeder: Mr Brett Merry Sponsor: Tote

6 10 10

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, GOLD seams, BLUE cap, GOLD tassel. Form: PP/111-2 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful twice from 5 starts in points and made the perfect start to his Rules career when landing 23f novice hurdle at Exeter in March. Confirmed he’s quite useful when runner-up at Carlisle 9 months later and potential improver now making a quick switch to handicaps. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 119

9 KATESON (GB)

(249)

Gr g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Silver Kate (IRE) (Insan (USA))

Owner: Mr David M. Richards Trainer: Alastair Ralph, Bridgnorth Breeder: D. M. Richards Sponsor: Planned Office Interiors Ltd

9 10 9

Colours: RED, WHITE hoop, striped sleeves, BLACK and WHITE hooped cap Form: 325666- C

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful performer at best. Temperament seemed to get the better of him towards the end of last season but he does reappear off a much lower mark than when second in this 12 months ago STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 22/4/2022 it was reported that the horse was never travelling. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 118

10SABRINA (IRE)

(37)

B m Yeats (IRE) - En Vedette (FR) (Astarabad (USA))

Owner: Owners Group 030 Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Louis G. Vambeck Sponsor: Owners Group

7 10 9

Colours: MAUVE, BLACK chevrons on sleeves, BLACK cap Form: 413-221

TIMEFORM VIEW Has improved over hurdles since fitted with a tongue tie, making the most of a good opportunity back in novice company at Exeter last month. Could be more to come and one of 2 with a chance in this for her top yard. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 118

11BOBO MAC (IRE) (39) 11 10 6

Gr g Whitmore’s Conn (USA) - Blazing Love (IRE) (Fruits of Love (USA))

Owner: C & M Baker, K Ibberson, H Pearman

Trainer: Tom Symonds, Hentland Breeder: Michael G. Daly

Sponsor: Gun Dog Gin Ltd

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, BLACK seams, hooped sleeves, striped cap Form: U506-21 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Veteran who was useful at his best and confirmed he still has plenty to offer when a ready scorer over C&D last month. Sneaks in at the bottom of the weights and ought to remain competitive up 4lb Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 115

NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 11 (EXACTA)

Blinkers worn by No 4. Tongue Strap worn by No 3, 5, 10. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1, 7, 11. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No 2.

Alan Johns

Harry Cobden

Ben Jones

Gavin Sheehan

Freddie Gingell (7)

David Noonan

LAST YEARS WINNER BELLS OF PETERBORO (IRE) Age: 6 Weight: 10 9 Alan Johns 6-1 (Tim Vaughan) 7 ran

PLAY SMARTER

Forecast: 5-1 Flemenstide (IRE), 13-2 Green Book (FR), 7-1 Lynwood Gold (IRE), 8-1 Sabrina (IRE), 17-2 Bobo Mac (IRE), 9-1 Just A Dime (IRE), 12-1 Flight Deck (IRE), 14-1 Bells of Peterboro (IRE), Kateson (GB), 16-1 West To The Bridge (IRE), 50-1 Us And Them (IRE)

Betting

Race Summary:

A very competitive handicap. WEST TO THE BRIDGE has the tongue tie he wore when gaining all 4 wins last season refitted for the first time the term and might be worth chancing to bounce back to form having dipped to 3lb below his last successful mark. Last year’s winner Bells of Peterboro and the returning Green Book head the many possible dangers. 1-2-3: 1.WEST TO THE BRIDGE (IRE) 2.BELLS OF PETERBORO (IRE) 3.GREEN BOOK (FR) FREE form for all British and Irish meetings is available online every day at timeform.com/free

IN MEMORY OF KIM GINGELL

Today’s Coral Welsh Grand National will be run in memory of the late Kim Gingell. Kim, the daughter of retired trainer Colin Tizzard and his wife Pauline, and sister of Joe Tizzard, tragically lost a short battle with cancer in May 2020 leaving a husband David, and son, Freddie who rides Truckers Lodge in today’s Coral Welsh Grand National. It’s a race that the Tizzard team have enjoyed great success in winning with Native River in 2016 and Elegant Escape in 2018. Kim’s incredible work ethic behind the scenes of the Tizzard operation, was only matched by her love of celebrating the team’s successes, and the memory of her leading the singing at Chepstow with owner John Romans after Elegant Escape had won the 2018 Welsh Grand National will stay with us forever. Kim played an essential role looking after the big team of staff at Venn Farm while also caring for the horses in the yard Gingell famously rode alongside the late stable star Cue Card with work partner Theatre Guide

Wales Air Ambulance

Ambiwlans Awyr Cymru

The Wales Air Ambulance was formed on St David’s Day, 1 March 2001 and operates from bases across Wales. Now operational 24/7, the Charity needs to raise £8 million every year.

Wales Air Ambulance offers advanced critical care and is often described as a ‘Flying ED’. The on-board consultants and critical care practitioners are highly skilled and carry some of the most pioneering medical equipment in the world.

Ffurfiwyd Ambiwlans Awyr Cymru ar Ddydd Gwyl Dewi yn 2001 ac mae’n gweithredu o ganolfannau ledled Cymru. Gan fod yr Elusen bellach yn gweithredu 24/7, mae angen iddi godi £8 miliwn y flwyddyn.

Mae Ambiwlans Awyr Cymru yn cynnig gofal critigol uwch a chaiff ei ddisgrifio’n aml fel ‘Adran Achosion Brys sy’n Hedfan’. Mae’r meddygon ymgynghorol a’r ymarferwyr gofal critigol yn fedrus iawn, ac yn cario rhai o’r offer meddygol mwyaf arloesol yn y byd.

ewch i ambiwlansawyrcymru.com

SCAN

SCANIWCH

yourtrainers

Four top trainers, each with their own way of doing things, here’s who’ll be making sure your horses are ready to race

joetizzard

Joe won multiple Grade 1 races as a jockey before turning to training. He’s taken the reins at Venn Farm from his dad as he ventures into his first full season with runners in his own name.

rebeccamenzies

With well over 200 winners across flat and national hunt racing, Rebecca is a force to be reckoned with among a new generation of trainers.

jonjoo’neill

The only person to register a seasonal tally of 100 winners as both a jockey and a trainer - and the only person to ride and train a winner on the flat and over fences and hurdles at Ascot.

scottdixon

From handicappers to black type horses, Scott has enjoyed the challenge of unlocking the potential of all of them since gaining his license in 2011.

10 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT THE CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL

1. The first race was run in 1895 at Cardiff racecourse, situated in the suburbs at Ely

2. The 1914 race, which was then run over three miles, finished in a dead heat between Succubus and Dick Dunn. The latter’s owner did not want to share the prize money, so the pair ran again later that same afternoon. That was a bad decision, for Succubus was a clear winner this time.

3. Mr James V Rank owned the winner of the race five years out of six in the 1930s. His family’s fortune came from flour and bread. His brother J Arthur Rank was the founder of the Rank Organisation, which made all those old British films beginning with a man striking a huge gong.

4. Mr Rank’s Lacatoi is the only horse to win the race three times (in 1935, ‘37 and ‘39).

5. Two winners in the last 12 years have gone on to victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup - Synchronised (2010) and Native River (2016)

6. The race was initially run over two and a half miles and wasn’t run over the current distance of almost three and three quarters until it was moved to Chepstow in 1949.

7. The traditional date for the race was the Tuesday after Easter Monday, and with only a few exceptions it was run then between 1905 and 1968.

8. Martin Pipe trained the winner five times in six years (Bonanza Boy twice, Carvill’s Hill. Run For Free and Riverside Boy) and they were all sent off favourite or joint-favourite.

9. A year after his 2003 win, Bindaree’s horsebox got stuck in a traffic jam near the Severn Bridge. In order to get to the course on time he was ridden the last couple of miles. He arrived in time to run, and finished fifth.

10. When Potters Corner won in 2019 he was the first Welsh-trained winner since 1965.

Martin Pipe

THE CORALWELSH GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (PREMIER HANDICAP)

(run in memory of Kim Gingell) (GBB RACE)

(Class 1)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £150000

Owners Prize Money Winner £65370; Second £26835; Third £13425; Fourth £6705; Fifth £3360; Sixth £1680. (Penalty Value £85425)

For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1

THE BIG DOG (IRE)

(30)

B g Mahler - Saddlers Leader (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) (in 4lb ex)

Owner: Damien J. Kelly/Colin Kelly Trainer: Peter Fahey, Ireland Breeder: Kevin Neville

9 12 0

Colours: WHITE, RED star, RED sleeves, WHITE armlets, quartered cap Form: 30P6-11

TIMEFORM VIEW Big improver this autumn, winning Munster National at Limerick and the Troytown at Navan (both 3m). Big player under a 4lb penalty for an Irish stable which has plundered some valuable handicap hurdles in Britain in recent seasons. Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating 149 Aidan Coleman

2

THE BIG BREAKAWAY (IRE) (38) 7 11 13

Ch g Getaway (GER) - Princess Mairead (IRE) (Blueprint (IRE))

Owner: Eric Jones, Geoff Nicholas, John Romans Trainer: Joe Tizzard, Sherborne Breeder: William Mangan Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited

Colours: RED, YELLOW triple diamond, WHITE sleeves, RED armlets. Form: P/F23P-2 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart novice chaser in 2020/21. Largely disappointing in a light campaign last season but back on track when second of 10 on 25f Haydock reappearance last month, although he did race rather lazily Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 148 Brendan Powell

3 FORTESCUE (GB) (24) 8 11 10

B g Shirocco (GER) - Last of Her Line (Silver Patriarch (IRE))

Owner: Mrs L Nixon Trainer: Henry Daly, Ludlow Breeder: T. F. F. Nixon Sponsor: Humphrey Butler Ltd

Colours: DARK GREEN and ORANGE (quartered), ORANGE sleeves and cap Form: 231U-44

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who relished the emphasis on stamina when landing a listed handicap at Ascot (3m, heavy) in February All the sharper for a

(FR)

5 PATS FANCY (IRE) (24) 7 11 7

Colours:

6

TRUCKERS

LODGE (IRE) (38) 10 11 6

B g Westerner - Galeacord (IRE) (Accordion)

Owner: Gordon & Su Hall

Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mrs Ann Hogan Sponsor: Morson Group

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, ROYAL BLUE spots, halved sleeves, EMERALD GREEN cap. Form: 0/5336-0 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Winless since landing the 2020 Midlands Grand National but he was third in this race 12 months ago Likely to strip fitter for a reappearance run at Haydock last month and 7lb claimer Freddie Gingell has a 3-10 record for the stable. Each-way claims. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 141

7 FANTASTIKAS (FR) (24) 7 11 6

B g Davidoff (GER) - Negresse de Cuta (FR) (Baroud d’Honneur (FR))

Owner: Imperial Racing Partnership 2016

Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham Breeder: Mr R. Van Haaren & Mr E. Van Haaren Sponsor: Agetur (UK) Ltd

Colours: BLACK, WHITE stars, striped sleeves, BLACK cap Form: 310P-60

TIMEFORM VIEW Largely progressive novice chaser last term and he showed up well for a long way in a 27f Cheltenham handicap on his reappearance. Well held over the National fences at Aintree since but may fare better back over regulation obstacles. Yard has won this before. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 141 (-4) Sam Twiston-Davies

8 THE GALLOPING BEAR (GB) (30) 9 11 5

B g Shantou (USA) - Cheshire Kat (King’s Theatre (IRE))

Owner: Mr Adrian Paterson Trainer: Ben Clarke, Beaminster Breeder: Goldford Stud Sponsor: Tote

Colours: ROYAL BLUE, GOLD seams, BLUE cap, GOLD tassel. Form: 11/F1D-3

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner who has quickly developed into a smart chaser, although he was recently stripped of February’s Haydock Grand National trial win after testing positive for banned substance. Sharper for reapperance run over hurdles last month. Cheekpieces on first time. Considered back chasing. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 140

9 TIME TO GET UP (IRE) (24)

Ch g Presenting - Gales Return (IRE) (Bob’s Return (IRE))

Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill, Cheltenham Breeder: Mrs E. Moore Sponsor: Wasdell Group

9 11 3

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, WHITE cap Form: 1/0230-P

TIMEFORM VIEW Won the 2021 Midlands National and good third in this year’s renewal of that race in March. Pulled up on his 3m course reappearance 24 days ago but could prove a different proposition now stepping back up in trip Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 138 (-3) Jonjo

10ASK ME EARLY (IRE)

Gr g Ask - Cotton Ali (IRE) (Ala Hounak)

Owner: The Dare Family Trainer: Harry Fry, Corscombe Breeder: Barry Lynch Sponsor: Grosvenor Sport

(48)

8 11 3

Colours: MAROON, WHITE hollow box, halved sleeves, quartered cap Form: P1/11U-3 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Very progressive novice chaser in 2020/21 and also won twice over hurdles last season. Made a promising return to action when third to Le Milos at Bangor (3m, heavy) last month. Very much unexposed granted this sort of stamina test. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 138

11MUSICAL SLAVE (IRE) (38) 9 11 0

B g Getaway (GER) - Inghwung (Kayf Tara)

Owner: Mr John P. McManus Trainer: Philip Hobbs, Minehead Breeder: Simon Walford

Colours: EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW hoops, EMERALD GREEN cap, WHITE star Form: 33112-5

TIMEFORM

(IRE)

Colours:

TIMEFORM

Freddie Gingell (7)

Ben Jones

O’Neill Jr.

Sean Bowen

Tom Bellamy

13CYCLOP (IRE) (23)

B g King’s Theatre (IRE) - Tasmani (FR) (Turgeon (USA))

Owner: DD Racing & Professor L P Hardwick

Trainer: David Dennis, Banbury Breeder: John Fallon Sponsor: Dd Racing Ltd

11 10 9

Colours: PURPLE, YELLOW stars, LIGHT GREEN and RED hooped sleeves, PURPLE cap, YELLOW spots. Form: 61/5-233 C D

TIMEFORM VIEW Mulitple winner over hurdles/fences during 2020/21. Has shown he retains his ability since returning from a year off the track, finishing a creditable third of 13 in Borders National at Kelso last time. This tougher, though. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating 130 (-2)

14WAYFINDER (IRE) (24)

Br g Shantou (USA) - Sibury (IRE) (Overbury (IRE))

Owner: The Wayfinders

Trainer: Rebecca Curtis, Newport Breeder: Mrs Rita Kent Sponsor: William Hill

8 10 9

Colours: ORANGE, RED, PURPLE & DARK BLUE spectrum, WHITE collar and sleeves and peak to cap Form: 2P11-1P C BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Low-mileage 8-y-o who enhanced his excellent record around here when completing a 3m hat-trick on his reappearance in October Found to have bled when pulled up in the trial here at the start of the month. Could bounce back. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 3/12/2022 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled.

15REGINA DRACONES (IRE) (23)

B or Br m Kalanisi (IRE) - Zihuatanejo Breeze (IRE) (Old Vic)

Owner: Shawshank Syndicate Trainer: T. Gibney, Ireland Breeder: Bill Hayes & Declan Doyle

Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 130

7 10 7

Colours: LIGHT BLUE, DARK BLUE sleeves, WHITE and DARK BLUE check cap Form: 012-PF5

TIMEFORM VIEW Three wins in her novice chase campaign last season. Fell early in Troytown on her reappearance and might still have needed the run when fifth to Punitive in Porterstown at Fairyhouse (29f) 23 days ago Not discounted under Cobden. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 128

16MOVETHECHAINS (IRE)

(315)

B g Robin des Champs (FR) - Clash Artist (IRE) (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE))

Owner: Mr O. S. Harris Trainer: Gary Moore, Horsham Breeder: John Comerford Sponsor: Tote

8 10 7

Colours: YELLOW, DARK BLUE seams, striped sleeves, YELLOW cap Form: 4/P1111-

TIMEFORM VIEW Highly progressive chaser who completed a 4-timer (all by 12 lengths or more) in handicaps over 3m at Lingfield last season. Pitched into a much deeper handicap on his return to action but it’s likely there’s more to come. Star RatingHHHHI Official BHA Rating 128

17THE TWO AMIGOS (GB) (27) 10 10 6

B g Midnight Legend - As Was (Epalo (GER))

Owner: Bradley Partnership Trainer: Nicky Martin, Minehead Breeder: Upton Viva Stud Sponsor: Charles Simpson Organisation Ltd

TIMEFORM VIEW Winless since 2019. Did bounce straight back from a

GATS AND CO (GB)

Colours: MAROON, BEIGE star, diabolo on sleeves and star on cap Form: F242-03 D

Lilly Pinchin (3)

Adam Wedge

Harry Cobden

Jamie Moore

Betting Forecast:

11-2 The Big Dog (IRE), Quick Wave (FR), 8-1 Ask Me Early (IRE), 10-1 The Galloping Bear (GB), 12-1 Pats Fancy (IRE), 14-1 The Big Breakaway (IRE), 16-1 Truckers Lodge (IRE), Wayfinder (IRE), 22-1 Musical Slave (IRE), 28-1 Fortescue (GB), Wouldubewell (IRE), Movethechains (IRE), The Two Amigos (GB), 33-1 Fantastikas (FR), Time To Get Up (IRE), 50-1 Cyclop (IRE), Regina Dracones (IRE), 100-1 Gats And Co (GB), 150-1 D’Jango (FR)

Race Summary:

THE BIG DOG has landed a pair of valuable 3m handicap chases in Ireland in recent months and a 4lb penalty may not stop him going in again. A bad mistake did for him in this race 12 months ago but he’s a good jumper in the main and has long left impression this sort of stamina test will suit so he’s narrowly preferred to fellow penalised runner Quick Wave Truckers Lodge, who was placed in this last year, and The Galloping Bear are next time on the list

FFOS LAS RACECOURSE

Nestled on the site of a former open cast mine in the Carmarthenshire countryside, is our sister racecourse, Ffos Las. Named after the farm that once resided on the site in the former mining village of Trimsaran and with spectacular views down the Gwendraeth Valley and to Carmarthen Bay, Ffos Las is now one of West Wales’ hidden gems, having opened in 2009 and been acquired by ARC in 2018.

With 24 race meetings in 2023 across both jumps and the flat, including the Dragon Bet Welsh Champion in October, there is something for all racing tastes in a beautiful setting. Ffos Las is also more than just a racecourse, it is also a fantastic events venue able to host corporate events, weddings, functions, concerts and other occasions. Feel free to email the General Manager Kevin Hire for more information –khire@arenaracingcompany.co.uk.

Hope to see you in Carmarthenshire in 2023!

Kevin Hire - General Manager

yourstable

We all know that Your Horse is the only horse that matters. And now, you have four of them - soon to be five.

anniemc

With seven wins from 16 starts, 8yo Annie Mc missed most of last season due to injury but is ready to get back on track this seasonwith the Cheltenham Festival the target.

ladymendoza

An impressive 5yo, she was bought by Rebecca Menzies on behalf of Coral Racing Club in May 2022. Showed her class by winning her maiden point-to-point at Fairyhouse by four lengths.

conservative

Bought by Scott Dixon in 2022, our 3yo has a win at Southwelland five further places - from his eight previous runs.

unnamed(westerner)

Joe Tizzard’s 4-year-old gelding is yet to run. He was sired by Westerner, and his dam is Eternally Grateful.

Seventh Race 3.25

THE CORAL BEST ODDS GUARANTEED NOVICES’ HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (GBB RACE) (Class 3)

for novice four yrs old and upwards

Total race value £13400

Owners Prize Money Winner £5007; Second £2504; Third £1251; Fourth £626; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280. (Penalty Value £6535.20) For conditions of this race see page 62

No Horse Age st lb

1 MISTER COFFEY (FR)

(263)

B g Authorized (IRE) - Mamitador (Anabaa (USA))

Owner: Lady Bamford & Alice Bamford Trainer: Nicky Henderson, Lambourn Breeder: S.C.E.A. Le Haras D’Haspel Sponsor: Unibet

Colours: MAROON. Form: 4/32220-

7 11 10

TIMEFORM VIEW Talented but rather frustrating performer, shaping very well upped to 26f when runner-up in the Kim Muir at the Festival in March. Failed to take to the National fences a month later but could easily have a say in proceedings on reappearance. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 8/4/2022 it was reported that the horse lost its right fore shoe. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 140 Nico de Boinville

2 OSCAR ELITE (IRE) (31) 7 11 7

B g Oscar (IRE) - Lady Elite (IRE) (Lord Americo)

Owner: Mrs Mary-Ann Middleton Trainer: Joe Tizzard, Sherborne Breeder: T. McAuliffe Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited

Colours: ORANGE, PINK hoop and armlets, hooped cap Form: 453P-50 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to win over fences but he posted good third in Ultima Handicap at the Cheltenham Festival in March. Below-par tenth in Coral Gold Cup at Newbury last month but could easily bounce back. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 137 Brendan Powell

3 GUSTAVIAN (IRE) (37)

B g Mahler - Grange Oscar (IRE) (Oscar (IRE))

Owner: Decimus Racing I Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Breeder: Martin C. Fleming Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk

TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to score in this sphere but he’s posted some

(IRE)

7 11 5

Colours: LIGHT BLUE, ROYAL BLUE chevrons, LIGHT BLUE sleeves and cap Form: U2232-4

OKKA (GB) (25)

6 YOUNG BUCK (IRE)

(24)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Pepsi Starlet (IRE) (Heavenly Manna)

Owner: Mrs Jennifer Irish and Mr Paul Nicholls

Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: R. Guiry

8 10 11

Colours: YELLOW, RED cap, YELLOW star Form: 3/121U/-0 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful pointer who showed useful form in novice hurdles in 20/21. Had breathing operation/ off 22 months before coming in well-held seventh over C&D on his chasing debut 24 days ago Needs to take a big step forward. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 127

(IRE) (37) 6 10 9

B g Shantou (USA) - All The Best Mate (IRE) (Alflora (IRE))

Owner: Neil Goulden, Kevin & Sue Hopgood

Trainer: Jamie Snowden, Lambourn Breeder: M. Sheehy Sponsor: Betvictor

Colours: WHITE and RED stripes, chevrons on sleeves, RED cap Form: 2121-2

TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up sole start in Irish points before winning twice around 2m4f over hurdles last term. Made a promising start over fences when second of 8 in handicap at Uttoxeter (22.5f) 37 days ago. Open to improvement. Considered. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating 125 Gavin

Harry

B g Kayf Tara - Midnight Minx (Midnight Legend)

Owner: Potwell Racing Syndicate III Trainer: Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster Breeder: Goldline Stud (Mrs J. Mann) Sponsor: Geegeez.co.uk

Colours: WHITE, ROYAL BLUE cross belts, RED sleeves, ROYAL BLUE armlets and star on RED cap Form: 13 D

2 ISAAC DES OBEAUX (FR)

(55)

B g Kapgarde (FR) - Varda des Obeaux (FR) (Saddler Maker (IRE))

Owner: G Mason,Sir A Ferguson,Mr&Mrs P K Barber Trainer: Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat Breeder: Mme Marie Devilder et al Sponsor: Morson Group

Colours: DARK GREEN, WHITE chevron, LIGHT GREEN sleeves, DARK GREEN and WHITE check cap. Form: 1 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Kapgarde gelding who is out of a bumper winner and made the ideal start when scoring readily over C&D 55 days ago Looks the one to beat under a penalty Star RatingHHHHH Official BHA Rating - Harry Cobden

3 FINGLE BRIDGE (IRE) (60) 4 11 2

Br g Flemensfirth (USA) - Royale Video (FR) (Video Rock (FR))

Owner: McNeill Family & Stone Family Trainer: Olly Murphy, Wilmcote Breeder: Cyril O’Hara Sponsor: Ultima Business Solutions

Colours:

6 RIVERS CORNER (GB) (25) 4 11 2

B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Whisky Rose (IRE) (Old Vic)

Owner: Nick Case, Syd Hosie, John Romans Trainer: Joe Tizzard, Sherborne Breeder: Distillery Stud Sponsor: Coral Racing Limited

Colours: RED, large BLACK spots, BLACK and RED halved sleeves, RED cap, BLACK spots. Form: 0

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to 4 winners but there wasn’t enough encouragement when seventh in a bumper at Exeter first time out. Others preferred. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA Rating -

7 ROLLO’S KINGDOM (GB) (39) 5 11 2

B g Yorgunnabelucky (USA) - Tashkiyla (FR) (Alzao (USA))

Owner: Mrs N.A. Ward Trainer: Jeremy Scott, Dulverton Breeder: Mrs N. A. Ward Sponsor: Brendon Powerwashers

Colours: BEIGE, BROWN seams, BEIGE sleeves, BROWN cap Form: 6

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to 2 winners on Flat and ran with credit at a big price when sixth over C&D 39 days ago. May do better. Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating -

8 THANK YOU BLUE (GB) (341) 5 11 2

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Tara Potter (Kayf Tara)

Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd Trainer: Sam Thomas, Cardiff Breeder: James & Jean Potter

Colours: DARK BLUE and WHITE diabolo, hooped sleeves and cap Form: 3-

(5)

TIMEFORM VIEW Showed ability when third at Wincanton first time out but that was 11 months ago and he’s been fitted with a tongue strap, so a leap of faith is required to support him on this return. Star RatingHHIII Official BHA RatingSam Twiston-Davies

9 THREE CLIFFS BAY (GER) (-) 4 11 2

B g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - The Beauty (GER) (Dashing Blade)

Owner: Mr David M. Williams Trainer: Evan Williams, Llancarfan Breeder: Frau S. Hallstein Sponsor: Tote

Colours: LIGHT BLUE, PINK star, WHITE cap Form:

TIMEFORM VIEW €58,000 3-y-o, Jukebox Jury gelding. Half-brother to fairly useful hurdler/fair chaser Tidal River Dam German 1 1/4m/11f winner Star RatingHHHII Official BHA Rating - Mr Lewis Gordon (7)

HARTHILL (FR) (41)

Gr f Walk In The Park (IRE) - Queen Isabella (El Prado (IRE))

Colours: MAROON, MAROON and BLACK diabolo on sleeves. Form: 6 TIMEFORM VIEW Didn’t show a great deal when sixth at Warwick on debut 41 days ago, so she’s likely to struggle. Star RatingHIIII Official BHA Rating - Gavin Sheehan

Owner: Mrs Emma Stewart Trainer: David Dennis, Banbury Breeder: Mrs Therese Semirot Sponsor: Dd Racing Ltd, Tote

Brendan Powell

David Prichard

PLAY SMARTER

TODAY’S RACE CONDITIONS

First Race 12.00 - THE CORAL COMMITTED TO SAFER GAMBLING NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4520 to the winning horse The second to receive £2082, the third £1040 and the fourth £521. for novice four yrs old and upwards, which have not won more than two hurdle races. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £41 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 7lb Of 2 hurdle races 12lb Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 36 entries at £41. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £3464; Second £1732; Third £866; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) 3 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. SEE PAGE 20 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 12.30 - THE CORAL BET BUNDLES MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £4520 to the winning horse The second to receive £2082, the third £1040 and the fourth £521. for maiden four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £41 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st 4lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 44 entries at £41. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £3464; Second £1732; Third £866; Fourth £433. (Penalty Value £4520.18) 4 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10.

SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 1.05 -THE CORALGETCLOSERTOTHE ACTION HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £18210 to the winning horse The second to receive £8372, the third £4186, the fourth £2093, the fifth £1046 and the sixth £521. for four yrs old and upwards. £175 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £35 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £140 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after December 17th, 2022, for each steeple chase won 7lb Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/ logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if, up to and including the Saturday prior to closing, it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France or, having run in two such races, has been placed in the first four on each occasion, in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 24 entries, 5 at £35 and 19 at £175. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £13913; Second £6955; Third £3479; Fourth £1740; Fifth £868; Sixth £434. (Penalty Value £18210.50) BP

SEE PAGE 32 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 1.40 - THE CORAL FINALE JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £29720 to the winning horse The second to receive £11130, the third £5560 and the fourth £2775. for juvenile three yrs old. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £250 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 2 weight-for-age or Class 1 handicap hurdle race 3lb Of a Class 1 weight-for-age hurdle race 5lb Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will provide a prize to the winning owner, trainer and jockey In addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 16 entries at £250. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £22810; Second £9325; Third £4660; Fourth £2330. (Penalty Value £29720) A SEE PAGE 38 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 2.10 - THE CORAL RACING CLUB HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15609 to the winning horse The second to receive £7176, the third £3588, the fourth £1794, the fifth £897 and the sixth £447. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-145 (also open to such horses rated 146 and 147 - see Standard Conditions). £150 stake if the horse is rated 119 or higher, or £30 stake if the horse is rated 118 or lower with £120 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after December 17th, 2022, for each hurdle race won 7lb Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 24 entries, 1 at £30 and 23 at £150. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £11925; Second £5961; Third £2982; Fourth £1491; Fifth £744; Sixth £372. (Penalty Value £15609) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. BP SEE PAGE 44 FOR THIS RACE.

Sixth Race 2.50 - THE CORAL WELSH GRAND NATIONAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (run in memory of Kim Gingell) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £85425 to the winning horse The second to receive £32055, the third £16050, the fourth £7995, the fifth £4020 and the sixth £2010. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, November 15th and pay £150 stake, Scratch by noon, November 29th or pay £250, Confirm by noon, December 21st and pay £350, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Penalties, after November 20th, 2022, a winner of a steeple chase 4lb Of 2 steeple chases 7lb (No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st). Welsh Grand National Perpetual Challenge Trophy to be held by the winning owner until 1st December, 2023. Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CORAL.The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday, November 20th may be taken into account. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Horses will be led past the stands before cantering to the start. PLEASE NOTE: A novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 58 entries, 7 at £150, 25 at £400, 26 at £750. - Closed November 15th, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £65370; Second £26835; Third £13425; Fourth £6705; Fifth £3360; Sixth £1680. (Penalty Value £85425) Weights raised 14lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.

SEE PAGE 50 FOR THIS RACE.

Seventh Race 3.25 - THE CORAL BEST ODDS GUARANTEED NOVICES’ HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £6535 to the winning horse The second to receive £3010, the third £1504, the fourth £753, the fifth £350, the sixth £350 and the seventh £350. for novice four yrs old and upwards. £60 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £12 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £48 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Lowest weight 10st 5lb; Highest weight 11st 10lb Penalties, after December 17th, 2022, for each steeple chase won 7lb (20 lb weight range). Coral have kindly sponsored this race and will present a prize to the Owner, trainer and jockey In Addition they will give a cash prize to the person responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. (24 hour declarations apply to this race) 19 entries, 10 at £12 and 9 at £60. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £5008; Second £2504; Third £1252; Fourth £626; Fifth £280; Sixth £280; Seventh £280. (Penalty Value £6535.20) BP SEE PAGE 56 FOR THIS RACE. Eighth Race 3.55 - THE CORAL RACING CLUB JOIN FOR FREE OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE (CLASS 3) (Category 1 Elimination) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £5446 to the winning horse The second to receive £2509, the third £1254 and the fourth £628. for four, five and six yrs old only, which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat races or French AQPS Flat races. Enter by noon, December 21st and pay £50 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. December 26th. Weights: 11st 2lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a race 4lb Of 2 races 6lb The Riders’ Allowances under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code may be claimed in this race. 28 entries at £50. - Closed December 21st, 2022. Owners Prize Money Winner £4173; Second £2087; Third £1043; Fourth £522. (Penalty Value £5446)

SEE PAGE 58 FOR THIS RACE.