Welcome to Newcastle Racecourse for today’s BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle Day.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned racing enthusiast, we hope you have an enjoyable experience with us today.
My thanks to go to today’s race sponsors BetMGM, Weatherbys and Living North. I would like to wish their Directors, Management and guests an enjoyable and successful day of racing.
No less than nine of the UK and Ireland’s best hurdlers are due to line up in our feature, The BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle. The British representatives are headed up by the Nicky Henderson trained Sir Gino Unbeaten as a Juvenile this race represents his fist step into open company. Also stepping on from the Novice ranks is the Willie Mullins trained Mystical Power. The first progeny of the great Annie Power, a Champion Hurdler in her day, he has been beaten only once in six starts, when finishing second Slade Power in the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham. It is truly a clash to savour
The BetMGM Rehearsal Handicap Chase is an open and competitive race. Thirteen runners are declared and whilst southern raiders Bowtogreatness and The Changing Man look likely to head the betting, the winner of this race will be hard to find Representing the North, the Scottish trained Donny Boy looks to have a leading chance, but in truth it is hard to discount any runner in this field
Please follow directional traffic signage to ensure a safe and comfortable journey from the racecourse this afternoon. We have shuttle buses running after the last race to both Regents Centre and Four Lane Ends Metro Stations. LA Taxis have a rank onsite where taxis can be collected, or you can call them on 0191 287 7777.
From the team and I here at Newcastle Racecourse, we wish you all an enjoyable and successful day at the racecourse
Good luck!
Paul Elliott EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
RACEDAY TEAM
David Williamson Regional Director North
Paul Elliott Executive Director
NEWCASTLE RACECOURSE is part of Arena Racing Company which includes; Bath, Brighton, Chepstow, Doncaster, Ffos Las, Fontwell Park, Great Yarmouth, Hereford, Newcastle, Royal Windsor, Sedgefield, Southwell, Uttoxeter, Wolverhampton and Worcester racecourses.
Jane Headley Clerk of the Course
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
INFORMATION
Abandonment Policy
In the event of a race meeting being abandoned before the first race, a full refund will be made. If the meeting is abandoned after the first race but before the third, a 50% refund will be made in the same manner as a full refund If the meeting is abandoned after the third race, no refund will be made. Customers must retain their badges, which are date stamped and numbered, in order to obtain a refund. They must be presented or sent to the Racecourse Office from two days after the meeting Hospitality & Admission Packages are subject to charges if food has been consumed.
Admissions
Premier Enclosure: Offering superb viewing, admission into the premier enclosure gives you access to all public areas of the racecourse including Brandling House and Colonel Porters. Grandstand & Paddock Enclosure: Admission to the Parade Ring and main betting hall, this enclosure has a wide variety of food outlets For information on group discounts, packages and Festival Race Meetings please call the racecourse office on 0191 2362020 or log on to www. newcastle-racecourse.co.uk
Admission Rights
The Management reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone without assigning a reason for so doing The Management accepts no liability whatsoever for bodily injury or loss or damage to property, no matter how caused
BBQ’s & Picnics
BBQs are not permitted; however, you are quite welcome to bring a picnic into the designated area of the Grandstand Enclosure.
Children
In the interest of safety and security, a maximum of three children per adult can be admitted free of charge to Newcastle Racecourse Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Disabled Viewing Area
A disabled viewing area is located in front of the Parade Ring facing the 2nd horse unsaddling area. Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions or require any further information.
Emergency Procedures
In the unlikely event that the racecourse has to abandon racing and evacuate buildings please read the following information for your safety. Racecourse management will only take such action if an emergency situation such as a fire or possible bomb threat and at all times decisions will be taken placing public safety as a priority.
In the event that an evacuation is necessary an announcement will be made over the public address system.
Unless otherwise instructed, all customers and staff will be evacuated to the race rail clear of all buildings and cars and not allowed to access car parks or move vehicles This is for public safety and to allow emergency services such as the fire brigade to attend as quickly as possible In the event of the evacuation being averted or it is clear for the public to return to the public buildings a further public announcement will be made If no instructions are given owing to failure of the public address the public should assemble as follows:
a) Premier Enclosure - centre of the course via the horsegate adjacent to the parade ring.
b) Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure - lawn area at the east end of the enclosure.
Upon discovery of a fire you should advise one of the Racecourse or Security Staff who will take the appropriate action. At all times the management and racecourse staff will endeavour to keep the public informed Your co-operation for your safety is appreciated.
Laptops, Notebooks and Computing Devices
You are not permitted to use any device whilst on the Racecourse to communicate with anyone outside the Racecourse for the purpose of or in connection with any betting and you will be asked to remove such equipment from the racecourse
Photography
Racegoers please note it is not permitted to take photographs on racecourses except within the areas normally open to the public Amateur photographers must ensure that they do not intrude upon areas used by professional photographers. Flash photography is not permitted in any circumstances
Recording Racing Images & Sound
You are not permitted to record either directly, or via a TV screen, any images or commentary of any racing, even if it is for personal use
Safety and Comfort
In the interests of safety, and for the comfort of others, racegoers will not be permitted to take glasses outside the bar areas and other serving points All drinks need to be put into plastic receptacles before exiting the bar areas Racegoers are also reminded that they are not permitted to bring alcohol into the Racecourse No dogs are allowed on the Racecourse or into the enclosures with the exception of guide dogs
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
The Newcastle Racecourse Executive would like to thank our sponsors and wish them an enjoyable and prosperous day’s racing
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER (UNDER THE RULES OF RACING)
STEWARDS OF THE MEETING
ADRIAN SMITH (Chief Steward) PHILIP SPOTTISWOOD (Stewards' Panel Chair)
KATIE DOWSON, ROBERT McCARTHY
STARTERS
JASON CALLAGHAN
STUART TURNER
JUDGE
NICK HARGREAVE
CLERK OF THE SCALES
KARL CURRAN
VETERINARY OFFICER
ARTHUR KIDD
VETERINARY SURGEONS
LESLEY BARWISE-MUNRO
ED CHINN
MAX LING
MEDICAL OFFICERS
Dr VIV TUT
Dr PETER EVANS
Dr ANDY RAMSHAW
NURSE
LYNSEY PROCTER
EQUINE WELFARE AND INTEGRITY OFFICERS
MICHELLE MAUGHAN
ALEC DENT
JOE O'GORMAN
CYRIL JOHNSTONE
GRAHAM GRAY
COMMENTATOR
MARK JOHNSON
BETTING RING MANAGER
DARREN IRVING
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
PAUL ELLIOTT
CLERK OF THE COURSE
JANE HEADLEY
GROUNDS MANAGER
MARK RYAN
LEAD SAFEGUARDING OFFICIAL
PAUL ELLIOTT
DUTY SAFEGUARDING OFFICIAL
MICHAEL SMITH
PAUL ELLIOTT
formguide
previous performances
horse’s saddlecloth number horse’s name& birthplace
/ = new season
- = new year
Bold type shows Point-to-Point form
C = course winner
no.ofdays sincelast ran colour graphic weight st-lb
D = distance winner
CD = course & distance winner
BF = beaten favourite age
3 LAKE VIEW LAD (IRE) (23*) 132123- CD
Gr g Oscar (IRE) - Missy O’Brien (IRE)
Mr Trevor Hemmings
8 10-13
Henry Brooke
N. W. Alexander, Kinneston Peter Magnier Trust Inns Limited Br
TIMEFORMVIEWUseful sort who has won twice on heavy ground last season. Reliable sort who should give another good account. TFRHHHHH BHA139
Each horse has been given a star rating, these are defined below:
HHHHH Selected to win the race
HHHHI Good chance of being placed.
HHHII By no means out of the reckoning but at least one or two hold stronger claims
OFFICIAL BHA RATINGS EXPLAINED
HHIII Unlikely to win but not totally without hope. HIIII Can be given little or no chance.
The BHA Handicappers allot ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicappers to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability. The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the Handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions.
A horse rated 100, for example, would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring any penalties or allowances). The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in nonhandicaps races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed Any subsequently published change to a rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating For novice steeple chasers, the latest hurdle race rating may be shown until such time as the Handicappers allot a separate steeple chase rating Such ratings are prefixed by the letter h.
You may be asked to provide proof of your age when placing a bet
If you cannot produce this your bet will not be accepted
Raceday preview from Weatherbys
Weatherbys is delighted to sponsor two races on today’s high-class card, starting with the opening contest,thePaulFerguson’sJumpers To Follow ‘Introductory’ Juvenile Hurdle,aclass2eventwhichisopen to three-year-olds who have run no morethanonceoverhurdles.
Justfivegotopost,withthreebeing hurdling debutants, and prior to 48 hours ago, only Dan Skelton’s filly Global Hideaway could boast any previous experience. She finished fourth in a junior contest at Bangoron-Dee and takes on a quartet of interesting Flat recruits this afternoon.
Viyanni won once from four starts on the level in Ireland and makes hisdebutforHarryDerham,Spartan Warrior obtained a similar rating when winning a brace of Beverley handicaps for Ollie Sangster, but finished third at Musselburgh on Thursday, so wouldn’t be a certain starter; and, Inappropriate won handicaps at Beverley and Ayr for HarryEustaceandhasmovedtothe in-form Middleham stable of Jedd O’Keeffe.
The Churchill chestnut was picked up for 55,000gns last month, having displayedafineattitudetowinthose good-ground contests. Now rated 76, he is the highest-rated of those mentioned and O’Keeffe saddled three winners (and two seconds) from seven runners between 16th and27thNovember.
The most interesting runner, however, is Lavender Hill Mob, who represents James Owen and The Gredley Family, who have already unleashed a high-class juvenile in the shape of East India Dock. Responsible for Burdett Road –himself a smart juvenile this time last year and recent winner of the Greatwood Hurdle – they introduce a high-class Flat performer over hurdleshereintheshapeofthisson ofExpertEye,whohasonlysiredone winninghurdlertodate.
WinnerofanovicestakesatLingfield inearly-January,hewonahandicap atGoodwoodinMayoffamarkof76 and went on to contest the Cocked Hat Stakes and the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot. Given a nice break and gelded in the meantime, he oughttobetoughtobeatifjumping proficiently.
Six go to post for the Weatherbys nhstallions.co.uk ‘The French Furze’ Novices’ Hurdle, a class 2 contest over 2m6f. Jennie Candlish has enjoyed a fine start to the season andherrapidly-progressiveSkyjack Hijack has to give weight away to all, having won his last five starts. Having entered handicap company off a mark of 96, he is now rated 132 and won three times in quick succession quite recently, including whenwinninghereinlate-October. He reverted to novice company when winning with ease at Exeter and the six-year-old – who hurdles
quickly and nimbly – sets a good standardhere.
Lucinda Russell’s useful Flat performer Evaluation made a winning start over hurdles recently, showing a fine turn of foot to draw clearovertheminimumtripatAyr.A stayeronthelevel,heshouldgetthis longertrip.
Skyjack Hijack has to give weight away to all, having won his last five starts.
How About No is rated 121 after four starts for Joseph O’Brien and is now in the care of Lizzie Quinlan, whilst Tony Martin’s Chester Cup third Zanndabad (rated 117) also boastsplentyofhurdlingexperience and although the latter has yet to matchhisFlatexploits,hehasshown enough to suggest that he will win racesoverhurdles.
TravisWheatley finished runner-up in a bumper at this track a month ago but faces a stiff task on hurdles debut, whilst Kepler’s Law shaped with considerable promise behind anexcitingprospectatAintreethree weeks ago. A good-looking son of JackHobbs,helookssuretodevelop into a smart chaser in time and is onetotakenoteof,possiblywiththe long-termfutureinmind.
Elsewhere on an excellent card, the highlight is of course the Grade 1 betMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle, a race which Nicky Henderson has won on eight occasions, most recently with ConstitutionHill.The2023Champion Hurdlewinnermightbeanabsentee today but the trainer, who first won the Fighting Fifth with Landing Light back in 2001, still saddles a leading contender, in the shape of last season’shigh-classjuvenileSirGino
Unbeaten in four starts, he gained Grade 1 honours at Aintree in April whenbeatingKargese(runner-upin the Triumph Hurdle and subsequent Grade 1 winner at the Punchestown Festival) and although he was expected to go chasing this season, could well reach the very top as a hurdler.
Mystical Power also won at Aintree (Top Novices’ Hurdle) and went on to reverse Supreme Novices’ Hurdle form with Slade Steel at Punchestown. A beautifully-bred son of Galileo (out of the top-class mare Annie Power), Willie Mullins’ five-year-old is blessed with plenty of natural pace, so the prevailing conditions might well suit the fiveyear-oldideally.Heisofficiallyrated 2lbs superior to Sir Gino and Mark Walsh travels over to maintain the partnership.
Ninegotopostintotal,withBrentford Hope the third highest-rated runner (148) and he has the benefit of having had a run, when runner-up to Rubaud in the Elite Hurdle. Welsh ChampionHurdlewinnerLumpSum and fellow second-season hurdler Tellherthename remain open to considerable improvement and all three should be well-suited by the likelygoodground.
Thelast-namedmakeshisfirststart for Jonjo & A J O’Neill and runs here ratherthaninhandicapcompanyat Newbury,presumablyheadingNorth in search of better ground. It will be interesting to see how he fares underregularrider,KielanWoods,as helookedhighly-promisingattimes last term and is sure to be one of the pace angles in the contest. The five-year-old might be capable of outrunninghisbigodds.
PaulFerguson
SkyjackHijack
FIRST RACE 11.53
ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 46YDS) FOR JUVENILE THREE YRS OLD
Owners Prize Money. 1st £12117, 2nd £6057, 3rd £3030, 4th £1515, 5th £756. (Penalty Value £15843) A
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): R Menzies (27 wins from 144 runners, 19%) runs SPARTAN WARRIOR TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): J Owen (9 wins from 30 runners, 30%) runs LAVENDER HILL MOB LONGEST TRAVELLER: LAVENDER HILL MOB trained by J Owen, Newmarket, 241 miles.
James Owen has an outstanding recent record with his juveniles and LAVENDER HILL MOB can be the latest cab off the rank to make the successful switch to hurdling He can get the better of Viyanni, who won on his Flat handicap debut at Bellewstown in July and has joined the up-and-coming Harry Derham yard. Sole filly Global Hideaway was given a considerate introduction at Bangor recently and completes the shortlist
colours no horse st lb
1
INAPPROPRIATE (IRE) (40)
Ch g Churchill (IRE) - Kimblewick (IRE)
Conor O’Farrell Caron & Paul Chapman Jedd O’Keeffe, Leyburn Br Grenane House Stud Jedd O’Keeffe Racing
TIMEFORMVIEWFairly useful on Flat, good second in pursuit of hat-trick at Pontefract (10f, heavy) just under 6 weeks ago. Has since left Harry Eustace and interesting to see what the market makes of him on hurdling debut TFRHHHII BHA-
2
LAVENDER HILL MOB (GB) (164)
B g Expert Eye - Whazzat
The Gredley Family
11-0
Nico de Boinville
James Owen, Newmarket
Br Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd Unex Group
TIMEFORMVIEWUseful on Flat, mid-field in Group 2 Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot (14.2f, good to firm) last time. Has since left Michael Bell and appeals as a very interesting hurdling debutant (stable has an outstanding recent record with juveniles) TFRHHHHH BHA-
3 SPARTAN WARRIOR (IRE) (2) 3
B g Saxon Warrior (JPN) - Silky (IRE)
Mr J. Fyffe
Br Lynch Bages Ltd
11-0
Craig Nichol
Rebecca Menzies, Sedgefield
JF Kegs (Scotland)Ltd, Bluegrass Horse Feeds
TIMEFORMVIEWFair handicapper on Flat, won twice in 2024 for Ollie Sangster. Showed aptitude when third of 8 in juvenile at Musselburgh (15.6f, good to soft) on hurdling debut on Thursday Others more appealing given the quick turnaround TFRHHIII BHA-
4 VIYANNI (IRE)
(149)
B g Almanzor (FR) - Viyana (IRE)
OLBG Racing Club
11-0
NON-RUNNER
Harry Derham, Newbury
Br His Highness the Aga Khan’s Studs S.C. OLBG
TIMEFORM VIEW Fair form on Flat, improved when won on handicap debut at Bellewstown (14.5f, good) in July Has since left John Patrick Murtagh (gelded) and must be considered on hurdles bow having joined a top yard Tongue tie applied. TFRHHHHI BHA-
) Fair on handicap since hurdles applied.
5 GLOBAL HIDEAWAY (GB) (17) 4 10-7
B f Masterstroke (USA) - Listen To The Man (IRE) Charlie Todd
Mrs Susan Carsberg Dan Skelton, Alcester
Br Susan Carsberg Global Services (Freight Forwarders) Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWMasterstroke filly who was given a considerate introduction having been easy to back when fourth of 7 in juvenile hurdle at Bangor (16.7f, soft) on debut earlier this month. Should progress with that initial effort under her belt and gets 7lb from her male rivals. TFRHHHII BHA-
2023:MEETING ABANDONED DECLARED RUNNERS 5
Probable S.P’s: 1-4 Lavender Hill Mob (GB), 14-1 Inappropriate (IRE), Global Hideaway (GB), 40-1 Spartan Warrior (IRE)
All owners can enjoy 20 syndicate badges at all fixtures, on all ARC tracks*
All ARC Tracks operate dedicated and exclusive syndicate lounge facilities on racedays.
*Terms & Conditions apply.
SECOND RACE 12.28
TWO MILES ABOUT FOUR FURLONGS (2M 4F 19YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS
THE LIVING NORTH HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE
(CLASS 4) (Go North Monet’s Garden Series Qualifier)
Total prize fund
£15000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £6059, 2nd £3029, 3rd £1515, 4th £758, 5th £378. (Penalty Value £7921.50) Weights raised 2lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): R Menzies (27 wins from 144 runners, 19%) runs GANDHI MAKER TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): L Russell (7 wins from 28 runners, 25%) runs STEP ABOVE
WEIGHTWATCHER: GLORY AND HONOUR won off a handicap mark of 122, his rating is now down 6lb to 116. LONGEST TRAVELLER: STEP ABOVE trained by L Russell, Kinross, 137 miles.
A chance is taken on WHOSHOTTHESHERIFF, who took a step back in the right direction on his first outing for Lizzie Quinlan and is thrown in on his peak form if he can build on that. Shadows In The Sky and Step Above might give him most to do. Artic Row could also play a part assuming a recent heavy tumble at Ayr hasn’t dented his confidence.
colours no horse age st lb
1 FIVE DOLLAR FINE (IRE) (21) P1-1315
B g Shantou (USA) - Danecole (IRE)
9 12-0
Conor Rabbitt (5)
Mr Ian Hamilton Ann Hamilton, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Br Ms Martina Doran Hamilton TIMEFORM VIEW Made it 3 wins in 4 starts when seeing off 6 rivals over 2m at Carlisle in October. Not so good when stepped back up in trip at Kelso last time, though TFRHHHII BHA118
2 GLORY AND HONOUR (IRE) (14)
B g Elusive Pimpernel (USA) - On Khee
Ursa Ellerby & Partner
3650P3
8 11-12
Jonathan England
Sam England, Guiseley
Br Mr Michael D. Hickey Yorkshire Health Solutions Ltd
TIMEFORMVIEW Improved over fences for current yard last season and also scored on the Flat at Pontefract in October. Not disgraced when 8 lengths third of 5 over 19f at Wetherby 14 days ago. TFRHHHII BHA116
3 ARTIC ROW (GB) (17) F115-UF D BF
B g Yeats (IRE) - Line Artic (FR)
Ken McGarrity & Walker,Wheeler,Wheeler
Br Wood Farm Stud
7 11-11
Conor O’Farrell
N. W. Alexander, Kinneston
Nairn’s Oatcakes Ltd, Kinneston Bloodstock Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWSuccessful 3 times last season (all 20.5f at Ayr) Has failed to complete on both comeback starts this autumn but was in the process of running well (yet to be asked for maximum effort) when coming down 2 out back at Ayr 17 days ago. Claims if none the worse. TFRHHHHI BHA115
4 STEP ABOVE (IRE) (65) 2P305-3 D
B g Jet Away - Tansyaster (IRE)
7 11-8
Derek Fox
One Step Beyond Lucinda Russell, Kinross
Br John O’Leary Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEW Shaped well when third on his 2 1/2m Perth reappearance in September On a good mark if he is able to back that up TFRHHHHI BHA112
5 GANDHI MAKER (FR) (204) P2312-P C BF
B g Policy Maker (IRE) - Thellya d’Arc (FR)
Mr Robert Moncur
Br Mme M. J. Augereau & Mr R. Terriere
8 11-7
Ross Chapman
Rebecca Menzies, Sedgefield
TIMEFORMVIEWCourse winner Went in at Sedgefield in January (final start for Stuart Coltherd). Just as good when second at Hexham for Phil Kirby in April but ran poorly back at Sedgefield in May and has changed stable again ahead of return. The betting should help guide to expectations. TFRHHIII BHA111
6 BACKBYJET (IRE) (30) 211513 D
B g Jet Away - Bonny Blackdoe (IRE)
6 11-5
Craig Nichol Steel A Win & Partners
Br Mrs Deirdre McGrath
Brian Ellison, Malton
Brian Ellison Racing Limited
TIMEFORM VIEW Has landed 3 wins over 2 1/2m at Hexham this season but not in the same form when a well-held third over this C&D last month. His yard won the race last year TFRHHHII BHA109
7 WHOSHOTTHESHERIFF (IRE) (37) P354-54 D 10 11-3
B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Dame Foraine (FR)
Sean Quinlan
Hambleton Racing Ltd XXXIV Lizzie Quinlan, Appleby-in-Westmorland
Br Mountainview Stud Ltd Tipperary
Hambleton Racing Ltd
TIMEFORMVIEWUseful chaser in his prime Lost his way for Phil Kirby but stopped the slide for new trainer Lizzie Quinlan when 10 lengths fourth of 15 at Carlisle last month. Very well treated if he can build on that TFRHHHHH BHA107
TIMEFORMVIEWPoint winner who has scored twice over 2 1/2m at Hexham this season, the latter success coming with a visor added (retained) 8 weeks ago. His 5lb rise for that is offset by his rider’s claim. Player TFRHHHHI BHA100
9 HAWKSEYE VIEW (GB) (32) 6405-06 D 5 10-2
B g Telescope (IRE) - Noir Girl
Peter Kavanagh (3)
Mrs A. Ellis Joel Parkinson & Sue Smith, Bingley
Br Auroras Encore 2 Ltd Tuffa Footwear Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWWinning pointer who made a perfectly satisfactory chasing debut at Wetherby last month, shaping as if better for the run on return having looked third best for a long way. Failed badly to build on that at Bangor since so difficult to know what to expect here TFRHHIII BHA92
DECLARED RUNNERS 9
Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 3, 4. Visor, Tongue Strap worn by No. 8.
Stewards Note:
GANDHI MAKER: Following its run on 10/5/2024 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled.
Probable S.P’s: 9-2 Artic Row (GB), 5-1 Shadows In The Sky (IRE), 11-2 Glory And Honour (IRE), 7-1 Five Dollar Fine (IRE), 9-1 Backbyjet (IRE), 10-1 Whoshotthesheriff (IRE), 12-1 Step Above (IRE), 14-1 Gandhi Maker (FR), Hawkseye View (GB)
H A P P Y BI RT HD AY LA R A I N E
HAVE A FANTASTIC DAY HOPE YOU PICK SOME WINNERS WITH ALL MY LOVE DAVE XXX
THIRD RACE 1.03
TWO MILES ABOUT SIX FURLONGS (2M 6F) FOR NOVICE FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS
THE WEATHERBYS nhstallions.co.uk ‘THE FRENCH FURZE’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)
Total prize fund
£20000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £7950, 2nd £3974, 3rd £1988, 4th £994, 5th £496, 6th £248. (Penalty Value £10406) A
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): L Russell (18 wins from 139 runners, 13%) runs EVALUATION
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): L Russell (7 wins from 28 runners, 25%) runs EVALUATION
LONGEST TRAVELLER: ZANNDABAD trained by A J Martin, Ireland.
RACE STATS RACE SUMMARY
KEPLER’S LAW shaped with a good deal of encouragement when third at Aintree 3 weeks ago and, with the timefigure supporting the performance, he makes a fair amount of appeal, not least with the step up in trip promising to suit. Zanndabad remains with potential as a hurdler, while Skyjack Hijack has been thriving of late and warrants plenty of respect, also
colours no horse age st lb
1 SKYJACK HIJACK (IRE) (22) 211111 C D 6 11-8
B g Jet Away - Mrs Chevalier (IRE)
Sean Quinlan
Mr Alan Baxter Jennie Candlish, Leek
Br R. J. O’Brien PRA World Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEW Very progressive hurdler who readily completed a 5-timer in 5-runner novice hurdle at Exeter (22f, good) 19 days ago. Much respected once again. TFRHHHHI BHA132
2 EVALUATION (GB) (17) 1
6 11-5
B g Dubawi (IRE) - Estimate (IRE) Derek Fox
Lady I & Ms Catriona Good
Lucinda Russell, Kinross
Br Queen Elizabeth II Bunker Hill Dexters, Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
TIMEFORMVIEWUseful handicapper on Flat (stays 16.5f) who made a seamless transition to hurdles with a tongue strap retained when landing the odds in 7-runner novice at Ayr (2m) 17 days ago. Should make considerable progress. TFRHHHII BHA-
3 KEPLER’S LAW (GB) (21) 1-3
5 11-0
B g Jack Hobbs - Wee Orbit Adam Wedge
Mr Alan Rogers L J Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds
Br C R R Sweeting & Conduit Farm Stud Postpack Ltd
TIMEFORMVIEWWon his sole start in Irish points and shaped with a good deal of encouragement switched to Rules when third of 9 in an Aintree novice (20f) 3 weeks ago. Open to improvement TFRHHHHH BHA-
4 ZANNDABAD (IRE) (62) 045/022-
B g Iffraaj - Zanoubiya (IRE)
5 11-0
Daniel King
Mr P. Davies A. J. Martin, Ireland
Br His Highness the Aga Khan’s Studs S.C.
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on Flat and shaped well when sixth of 30 in Irish Cesarewitch at the Curragh on most recent outing. Fairly useful over hurdles, finding only one too good in a Musselburgh handicap in February and an Ascot maiden (19.2f) in March. Remains with potential TFRHHHHI BHA117
TIMEFORMVIEWFairly useful on Flat (stays 1 1/2m) and similar form when placed all 4 starts in maiden hurdles, though did hang badly left early final circuit at Fairyhouse on most recent outing Sold from Joseph Patrick O’Brien’s yard for £32,000 afterwards TFRHHHII BHA121
6 TRAVIS WHEATLEY (IRE) (30) 12 BF
B g Order of St George (IRE) - Bigzam d’Or (FR)
D&D Armstrong Ltd
4 10-13
Craig Nichol
Brian Ellison, Malton
Br Mr Alan Mackey North Sea Logistics
TIMEFORMVIEW Point winner in May and shaped encouragingly switched to Rules when second in 8-runner bumper at this course last month. Upped appreciably in trip for hurdles debut TFRHHHII BHA-
DECLARED RUNNERS 6
Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 4.
Probable S.P’s: 2-1 Skyjack Hijack (IRE), 4-1 How About No (FR), 9-2 Zanndabad (IRE), 5-1 Kepler’s Law (GB), 7-1 Evaluation (GB), 22-1 Travis Wheatley (IRE)
1-2-3: 1.KEPLER’S LAW 2.ZANNDABAD (IRE) 3.SKYJACK HIJACK (IRE)
The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible
RETAIN YOUR BETTING TICKETS
Racegoers are reminded to retain all betting tickets until ‘WEIGHED IN’ has been announced over the loud speaker.
FOURTH RACE 1.35
THREE MILES ABOUT SIX FURLONGS (3M 5F 190YDS) [3M ABT 6F] FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS
THE BETMGM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE
(CLASS 3)
Total prize fund £20000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £8078, 2nd £4038, 3rd £2020, 4th £1010, 5th £504. (Penalty Value £10562) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): L Russell (18 wins from 139 runners, 13%) runs DESTINY IS ALL & JEM IN EM TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): L Russell (7 wins from 28 runners, 25%) runs DESTINY IS ALL & JEM IN EM LONGEST TRAVELLER: JERRASH trained by P & M Bowen, Haverfordwest, 434 miles.
BREAKDANCE KID continues to improve and made a good impression when scoring in dominant fashion at Kelso three weeks ago This markedly longer trip is an unknown but he’s capable of going in again if he gets it. Ilikedwayurthinkin is a threat and Jerrash should give another good account. 1-2-3:
1 JERRASH (GB) (41) 115252
B g Kayf Tara - Sudden Light (IRE)
7 12-0
Sean Bowen
Mr P. Bowen Peter & Michael Bowen, Haverfordwest
Br M&R Refurbishments Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEW Recorded back-to-back wins at Bangor and Market Rasen this summer and good effort when runner-up at Sedgefield last time Expected to be involved again TFRHHHHI BHA127
2 ILIKEDWAYURTHINKIN (IRE) (17) 031131
B g Yeats (IRE) - Sway (FR)
10 11-8
Richie McLernon
Mr John P. McManus Ben Haslam, Middleham
Br Mrs Noreen McManus
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful handicap hurdler/chaser at one time and has rediscovered some form, scoring twice in Cartmel handicaps i the summer and easily landing a 3-runner event at Ayr earlier this month. Definite player TFRHHHHI BHA121
3 BREAKDANCE KID (GB) (21) 015521
Ch g Norse Dancer (IRE) - Pinamar
6 11-6
Sam Coltherd
Mrs Wilma Duffus Stuart Coltherd, Selkirk
Br Cyril Humphris Sinclair’s of Rhynie Limited
TIMEFORMVIEWRan away with a Hexham handicap in June and back to winning ways with another impressive display at Kelso three weeks ago. Very much on the up and looks the one to beat TFRHHHHH BHA119
4
DESTINY
IS ALL (IRE) (33) 03642-1
B g Prince Flori (GER) - Hearts Delight (IRE)
10 11-0
Jack Power (7)
Mr John R. Adam Lucinda Russell, Kinross
Br Eithne Magee Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEW Boasts a good record when fresh and bolstered that after 6 months off when landing 6-runner handicap chase at Ayr (24.1f, good to soft) 33 days ago, rallying to lead on run-in Respected up 3lb returned to this significantly longer trip TFRHHHHI BHA113
5 CLONGUILE WAY (IRE) (14) 52406/-3
B g Double Eclipse (IRE) - Massini Flyer (IRE)
11 10-11
Conor Rabbitt (5)
The 100 Club Andrew Crook, Leyburn
Br Breda O’Keeffe
TIMEFORMVIEWOne-time fair chaser but ended his time with John McConnell out of sorts back in spring 2023 and laboured at Wetherby on debut for new yard a fortnight ago. Others make more appeal TFRHIIII BHA110
6 ELLEON (FR) (37) 133432
B g Martaline - Ailette
9 10-6
Jonathan England Worcester Racing Club
Br Mr Patrick Fennessy
Sam England, Guiseley
Yorkshire Health Solutions Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWStill not the most of fluent of jumpers but has enjoyed a fine start to the season, winning brace of handicaps at Hexham (at 3m) and in-the-frame all 5 starts since Likely to give his running again and he’s unexposed at marathon trips. TFRHHHII BHA105
7 JEM IN EM (IRE) (55) 424-304
6 10-3
B g Well Chosen - Apache Rose (IRE) Derek Fox
The Jemsters Lucinda Russell, Kinross
Br David McKeever Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWConsistent hurdler but stepped up on his return/chase debut run when fourth of 10 in handicap at Kelso 55 days ago, even a well-run 3 1/4m not getting near the bottom of him. Demands of this sort of test look sure to suit and respected with blinkers replacing cheekpieces TFRHHHII BHA102
Visor worn by No. 1. Tongue Strap worn by No. 6. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 7.
Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 3, 4, 6.
Probable S.P’s: 10-3 Ilikedwayurthinkin (IRE), 7-2 Breakdance Kid (GB), 9-2 Jerrash (GB), 5-1 Destiny Is All (IRE), 13-2 Elleon (FR), 9-1 Jem In Em (IRE), 100-1 Clonguile Way (IRE)
CHECK YOUR TICKETS
Customers of the Boards and Rails bookmakers should check their itemised tickets immediately on receipt, as mistakes cannot be rectified after the “off”. Customers are reminded to retain all betting tickets until after the weigh-in, as immediate payment will be made only on production of the original ticket All tickets will remain valid for one month.
THE HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD
The Horserace Betting Levy Board prize fund schemes provide for the estimated inclusion of £764,005 in ratecard and incremental prize money at this racecourse from 16th September to 31st December 2024.
The Royal Regiment Of Fusiliers was formed on St George’s Day 23rd April 1968, by the amalgamation of The Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, The Royal Warwickshire Fusiliers, The Royal Fusiliers and The Lancashire Fusiliers.
The Fusiliers have served in Ulster, the Balkans, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. The First Fusiliers are stationed in Tidworth, Hampshire and The Fifth Fusiliers are now a national Reserve Battalion, spanning from Berwick to Blackheath.
Birds Nest 77 Mr I C G Scott A R Turnell A Turnell
Sea Pigeon 78 Mr P Muldoon M H Easterby J Watkinson
Birds Nest 79 Mr I G C Scott A R Turnell A Turnell
Sea Pigeon 80 Mr P Muldoon M H Easterby A Brown
Ekbalco 81 Mr Tawfik Fakhouri R F Fisher D Goulding
Donegal Prince 82 Mr J McGonagle P A Kellaway P Tuck
Gaye Brief 83 Ali Abu Khamsin Mrs M Rimell S Morshead
Browne’s Gazette 84 Mr John Poynton Mrs M Dickinson D Browne
Out of the Gloom 85 Mr Paul Green R Hollinshead J J O’Neill
Tom Sharp 86 Mr M J Yarrow W Wharton S J O’Neill Dr H Yarrow
Floyd 87 Mr M V Walsh D R C Elsworth C Brown Mr John Rumble
Floyd 88 Mr M V Walsh D R C Elsworth S Sherwood Mr John Rumble
Kribensis 89 Sheikh Mohammed M R Stoute M Dwyer
Beech Road 90 Mr Tony Geake G B Balding R Guest
Royal Derbi 91 Mr M Tabor N A Callaghen C Grant
Halkopous 92 Mr Athos Christodoulou M H Tompkins S Smith Eccles 93 Abandoned
Batabanoo 94 Mr P D Savill Mrs M Reveley P Niven
Padre Mio 95 Lady Lloyd Webber CPE Brooks R Guest
Space Trucker 96 Mrs E Quelly Mrs J Harrington J Shortt Star Rage 97 Mr David Abell M Johnston D Gallagher
Dato Star 98 Kath Riley, Mrs M Guthrie J M Jefferson L Wyer & Joe Donald
Dato Star 99 Kath Riley, Mrs M Guthrie J M Jefferson L Wyer & Joe Donald
Barton 00 Sir Stanley W Clarke T D Easterby T Dobbin
Landing Light 01 Mr & Mrs John Poynton N J Henderson J R Kavanagh
Intersky Falcon 02 Interskyracing.com J O’Neill L Cooper & Mrs Jonjo O’Neill
The French Furze 03 Mr Jim Ennis N G Richards B Harding & Mr P. M. McMahon
Harchibald 04 D P Sharkey N Meade P Carberry
Arcalis 05 Andrea & Graham Wylie J Howard Johnson T Dobbin
Straw Bear 06 John P McManus N J Gifford A P McCoy
Harchibald 07 D P Sharkey N Meade P Carberry
Punjabi 08 Raymond Tooth N J Henderson B J Geraghty
Go Native 09 Docado Syndicate N Meade D J Condon
Peddlers Cross 10 T G Leslie D McCain J Maguire
Overturn 11 T G Leslie D McCain J Maguire
Countrywide Flame 12 Estio Pinnacle Racing J J Quinn D O’Regan
My Tent Or Yours 13 John P McManus N J Henderson A P McCoy
Irving 14 Axom XLIX P F Nicholls N Scholfield
Identity Thief 15 Gigginstown House Stud H De Bromhead B J Cooper
Irving 16 Axom XLIX P F Nicholls H Cobden
Buveur D’Air 17 John P McManus N J Henderson B J Geraghty
Buveur D’Air 18 John P McManus N J Henderson B J Geraghty
Cornerstone Lad 19 Mrs B M Lofthouse M Hammond H Brooke
Epatante 20 John P McManus N J Henderson A Coleman
Not So Sleepy 21 Lady Blyth H Morrison J Burke
Epatante (DH) John P McManus N J Henderson A Coleman
Constitution Hill 22 Michael Buckley N J Henderson N de Boinville
Not So Sleepy 23 Lady Blyth H Morrison S Bowen
FIGHTING
WE LOOK BACK AT SOME OF THE MEMORABLE WINNERS THAT HAVE HELPED SHAPE THE BetMGM FIGHTING FIFTH HURDLE INTO ONE OF THE COUNTRIES LEADING HURDLE RACES.
HISTORY
The Fighting Fifth Hurdle was established in 1969, and the inaugural running was won by the Fulke Walmyn-trained Mugatpura. The title refers to the nickname of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers - “The Fighting Fifth”. In the year prior to the race’s launch, the regiment was amalgamated with three others to form the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.
Formerly classed at Grade 2 level, the Fighting Fifth Hurdle was promoted to a Grade 1 in 2004, and it is now the first top-grade hurdle race of the British National Hunt season.
The Fighting Fifth is the first leg in the Road to Cheltenham, a series of races which includes the International Hurdle at Cheltenham and the Champion Hurdle Trial at Haydock Park, and culminates in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
1976, 1977 & 1979 BIRDS NEST
The winner of 19 hurdle races, Birds Nest won three renewals of the Fighting Fifth Hurdle. He also won three Bula Hurdles, the Christmas Hurdle and two runnings of the Scottish Champion Hurdle, beating some of the best hurdlers of the time He ran six times in the Champion Hurdle finishing second in 1976 and third in 1980 and has been described as the best hurdler never to win the Champion Hurdle
1998 & 1999 DATO STAR
The winner of the Champion Bumper at the Festival in 1995, Dato Star went on to win back-to-back renewals of the Fighting Fifth for Malcolm Jefferson. He also won the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle in 1999
1978 & 1980 SEA PIGEON
Truly the horse of a lifetime In a career which lasted from 1972 until 1981 he competed in eighty-five races, winning an incredible thirty-seven times under both codes for trainers Jeremy Tree, Gordon Richards & for Peter Easterby.
In addition to his brace of wins in the Fighting Fifth, he won back-to-back renewals of the Champion Hurdle in 1980 & 1981, the Scottish and Welsh Champion Hurdles, back-to-back renewals of the Chester Cup in 1977 & 1978 and the prestigious Ebor Handicap in 1979 making him arguably one the most versatile racehorses in modern times.
FIFTH HURDLE
1972, 1973 & 1974 COMEDY OF ERRORS
One of the most successful horses in the 52 year history of the Fighting Fifth Hurdle having won it three years in succession between 1972 and 1974
In 1973 Comedy Of Errors won his first Champion Hurdle, beating Bula who had won the race in 1971 and 1972
He finished runner-up to Lanzarote at the 1974 Festival but returned to regain his title in 1975
The 1970’s really were a decade full of top class hurdlers making the Fred Rimelltrained gelding’s achievements all the more spectacular
1989 KRIBENSIS
By the Derby winner Henbit, Kribensis was sent into training with Sir Michael Stoute in Newmarket - no doubt with a career on the flat in mind.
But it was over hurdles where he really excelled winning the Triumph Hurdle in 1988. The following season he became the only horse to win the Fighting Fifth, Christmas Hurdle and Champion Hurdle in the same season - a trio of races considered to be the Triple Crown of Hurdling.
In 2008/09, Punjabi came close to matching Kribensis’ feat, winning the Fighting Fifth and Champion Hurdle, but came up short in the Christmas Hurdle
Kribensis is one of only three horses, along with Persian War and Katchit, to have won the Triumph Hurdle and Champion Hurdle during their career
2017 & 2018 BUVEUR D’AIR
Unbeaten in two starts in his native France, Buveur d’Air established himself as one of the greatest hurdlers in recent memory Since 2015 he won it all. His back-to-back wins in the Fighting Fifth were added to with two Champion Hurdles, an Aintree Hurdle, a Christmas Hurdle, a Punchestown Hurdle and not forgetting three Contenders Hurdles which seemed to be his regular warm up for the Champion Hurdle in March. By the end of the 2021 season he had amassed prize money of £1.23 million.
FIGHTING FIFTH
HURDLE
GRADE 1 RUN OVER TWO MILES (2M 46YDS)
TOTAL PRIZE FUND OF £115,000
£64,710 TO THE WINNER £24,380 TO THE SECOND £12,201 TO THE THIRD
ROLL OF HONOUR
YEAR HORSE TRAINER JOCKEY
*2023 Not So Sleepy Hughie Morrison Sean Bowen
2022 Constitution Hill Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville
2021 Not So Sleepy Hughie Morrison Jonathan Burke
(DH) Epatante Nicky Henderson Aidan Coleman
2020 Epatante Nicky Henderson Aidan Coleman
2019 Cornerstone Lad Micky Hammond Henry Brooke
2018 Buveur d’Air Nicky Henderson Barry Geraghty
2017 Buveur d’Air Nicky Henderson Barry Geraghty
2016 Irving Paul Nicholls Harry Cobden
2015 Identity Thief Henry De Bromhead Bryan Cooper
2014 Irving Paul Nicholls Nick Scholfield
*run at Sandown Park
8⁄11 TOP TWO FINISH LAST TIME OUT
7⁄11 OFFICIALLY RATED 153 OR HIGHER
6⁄11
FIRST TWO IN THE BETTING
6⁄11
FIVE AND SIX-YEAR-OLDS
5⁄11 TRAINED BY NICKY HENDERSON
It shouldn’t be a shock that 8 of the last 11 winners of today’s feature had finished 1st or 2nd on their most recent start. Only Irving bucks this trend having fallen prior to winning here in 2014 before finishing 4th when regaining his title in 2016, along with Epatante in 2021 who was last seen finishing 3rd in the Irish Champion Hurdle
On the whole Grade 1 races do tend to attract the best horses, so it is not surprising that it is usually the higher rated horses which come to the fore Cornerstone Lad was the lowest rated winner in 2019 off an official rating of 148 whilst the 2022 generational talent Constitution Hill won off a lofty mark of 170.
Go Native sprung a 25/1 surprise in 2009 but after that those towards the head of the betting had held sway Five favourites and one second favourite landed the spoils since then with the other two winners at a modest 6/1. But is the tide turning? Cornerstone Lad popped up at 16/1 in 2019 and Not So Sleepy dead-heated at 18/1 in 2021 and claimed gold at 9/1 last year
Five and six-year-olds have the best record having won six of the last 10 renewals. Younger winners are rare but older winners do pop upSea Pigeon was 10 when he won here in 1980 and Not So Sleepy topped that with success at 11 last year! Buveur d’Air (2018) and Epatante (2021) proved a fly in the ointment when winning as seven-year-olds in more recent times.
Nicky Henderson is the winning most trainer in the race’s 55 year history having won it 8 times - Landing Light (2001), Punjabi (2008), My Tent Or Yours (2013), Buveur d’Air (2017, 2018), Epatante (2020, 2021) and Constitution Hill (2022). Can the Seven Barrows maestro make it 9 this year? Noel Meade (3), Paul Nicholls (2), Donald McCain (2) and Hughie Morrison (2) are next best.
CONCLUSION
With Constitution Hill still out on the sidelines, Nicky Henderson saddles another stable star in SIR GINO who was foot perfect as a juvenile last year The four-year-old maintains a perfect record over hurdles, completing the Grade 1 juvenile Cheltenham-Aintree double last term and merits the up-most respect against older rivals for the first time With that said, he will have to be at the top of his game to defy the Willie Mullins-trained Mystical Power. He boats an impressive CV including the Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle, Top Novices’ Hurdle and KPMG Champion Novice Hurdle These two look set to fight out what should be another thrilling renewal.
Pioneering equine vision research showed the clarity of jumps could be improved by changing markers from orange to white. So that’s what we did. horsepwr.co.uk
FIFTH RACE 2.10
ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 46YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS
THE BETMGM FIGHTING FIFTH HURDLE RACE
(CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE)
Total prize fund £115000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £50117, 2nd £20574, 3rd £10293, 4th £5141, 5th £2576, 6th £1288. (Penalty Value £65492.50) A
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): A M Thomson (15 wins from 90 runners, 17%) runs BENSON TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): N Henderson (10 wins from 30 runners, 33%) runs SIR GINO FANCY THAT: N Henderson won this race in 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021 and 2022. The stable runs SIR GINO today. LONGEST TRAVELLERS: MYSTICAL POWER trained by W P Mullins & COLONEL MUSTARD trained by L Fowler, Ireland.
Despite Constitution Hill’s absence, this prize still looks destined for the Nicky Henderson yard with SIR GINO taken to maintain his unbeaten record. Indeed, he could be something of a star himself judged on his exploits last term, which included an impressive performance in the Anniversary Hurdle at Aintree. Irish-raider Mystical Power, also a Grade 1 winner at the Grand National meeting, will ensure that this is a proper test for Sir Gino, while the mareTake No Chances makes each-way appeal
colours no horse age st lb
1 BENSON (GB) (49) 4000-P4 D
9 11-10
B g Beat Hollow - Karla June Ryan Mania
Mr Ken McGarrity
Sandy Thomson, Greenlaw
Br Netherfield House Stud Nairn’s Oatcakes Ltd TIMEFORMVIEWGained sixth win over hurdles at Musselburgh on New Year’s Day but ended last season on a downer and started this campaign with a low-key display over fences. TFRHIIII BHA134
2 BRENTFORD HOPE (GB) (21) 3211-22 C D 7 11-10
B g Camelot - Miss Raven (IRE)
The Optimists Syndicate
NON-RUNNER
Harry Derham, Newbury
Br Haras du Logis St Germain OLBG
TIMEFORMVIEWTalentedontheFlatandenhancedexcellentstrikerateoverhurdleswithabraceofhandicapwinsinMarch.Solidstarttothisseasonwhensecondinthe 3-runner Grade 2 Elite Hurdle at Wincanton (15.2f, good), a race he may well have won but for bungling the last flight Strong each-way claims. TFRHHHII BHA148
3 COLONEL MUSTARD (FR) (7) 525-323 D 9 11-10
Ch g Makfi - Waldblume (GER)
Mrs A.Frost/P.G. Davies/R.H. Fowler
Br Gestut Gorlsdorf
Adam Wedge
Mrs Lorna Fowler, Ireland
TIMEFORM VIEWSmart hurdler who resumed with a good second of 3 in a conditions hurdle at Sligo. Subsequent effort in a Grade 2 at Ascot (19.3f, good to soft) was no backward step but this 9-y-o continues to look vulnerable for win purposes. TFRHHIII BHA146
4 KIHAVAH (GB) (41) P34/1-22 CD
Ch g Harbour Watch (IRE) - Roheryn (IRE)
7 11-10
Sean Bowen JAB Adrian Keatley, Malton
Br The Roheryn Partnership
TIMEFORM VIEWLikeable sort who was runner-up in the Summer Hurdle at Market Rasen in July Also found just one to good on the level in the Ebor at York before landing a 13f Ayr handicap. Didn’t do much wrong when chasing home Rubaud (winner again since) back hurdling at Kempton last time but this is a big ask. TFRHHIII BHA136
5 LUMP SUM (FR) (48) 11215-1 D
B g Authorized (IRE) - Fleur Enchantee (FR)
Walters Plant Hire Ltd
Br Mr Antoine Sauty De Chalon
6 11-10
Dylan Johnston
Sam Thomas, Cardiff
TIMEFORM VIEWUseful novice hurdler last season, including a win in the Grade 2 Dovecote at Kempton (2m, soft) in February. Put in his place behind Mystical Power at Aintree on final start of that campaign but looked good when landing a Ffos Las handicap on return last month. Not without each-way hope. TFRHHHII BHA143
6 MYSTICAL POWER (IRE) (214) 11121-1 D 5 11-10
B g Galileo (IRE) - Annie Power (IRE) Mark Walsh
J. P. McManus/Mrs.J Magnier/Mrs S Ricci W. P. Mullins, Ireland
Br Annie Power Partnership
TIMEFORM VIEWQuickly made up into a top-drawer novice last season, suffering sole defeat when runner-up in the Supreme at the Cheltenham Festival in March. Successful in Grade 1s at the big Aintree and Punchestown meetings since, displaying a very good attitude on both occasions. Major player TFRHHHHI BHA154
TIMEFORMVIEWPoint winner who showed plenty of promise switched tohurdles for Ben Pauling last season, winningtwice. However, hewas putfirmly in his place when down the field in the Supreme at the Cheltenham Festival on latest start in March and big step forward needed on this return/yard debut. TFRHIIII BHA135
9
TAKE
NO CHANCES
B m Milan - Coscorrig (IRE)
(IRE) (28) 21-1431 D 6 11-3
Charlie Todd
Mr Garry Wilson Dan Skelton, Alcester
Br D. Corry The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes TIMEFORMVIEWWontwiceduringthespringandbackfromabreakwithafinethirdintheSilverTrophyatChepstow(19.5f,goodtosoft).Subsequentlyboltedupbackat2m in mares’ listed race at Wetherby, which represented a clear career-best. Good deal more needed if she’s to win this but live each-way chance TFRHHHII BHA138
2023: NOT SO SLEEPY 11 11 10 Sean Bowen 9-1 (Hughie Morrison) 4 ran DECLARED RUNNERS 9 Hood worn by No. 6. Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2, 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 1.
Probable S.P’s: 11-8 Sir Gino (FR), 7-4 Mystical Power (IRE), 14-1 Lump Sum (FR), 22-1 Take No Chances (IRE), 28-1 Colonel Mustard (FR), 40-1 Kihavah (GB), 66-1 Tellherthename (IRE), 150-1 Benson (GB)
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares
UNAUTHORISED BOOKMAKING
It is a condition of entry to this Racecourse that only individuals in possession of a valid betting badge and occupying an authorised pitch are entitled to lay bets on the course of their business. Betting with Bookmakers other than those operating from an authorised pitch is strictly prohibited. Offenders
escorted from the Racecourse and render themselves liable to prosecution.
SIXTH RACE 2.45
ABOUT TWO MILES (2M 46YDS) FOR MAIDEN FOUR, FIVE AND SIX YRS OLD
THE BETMGM EBF ‘NATIONAL HUNT’ MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (Qualifier) (GBB RACE)
Total prize fund £20000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £8346, 2nd £4174, 3rd £2086, 4th £1044. (Penalty Value £10892) A
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): L Russell (18 wins from 139 runners, 13%) runs JEUNE PRINCE TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): L Russell (7 wins from 28 runners, 25%) runs JEUNE PRINCE LONGEST TRAVELLER: FORSA BAY trained by L Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds, 181 miles.
JEUNE PRINCE improved on his form in bumpers at the first attempt over hurdles when fourth in a Carlisle novice last month, with three subsequent winners coming out of the race, so he is taken to open his account with further progress to come. Blackwater Lilly wasn’t beaten far on her last 2 starts in bumpers and could be the main danger, ahead of Gorvennec.
PRINCE (FR) 2.BLACKWATER LILLY 3.GORVENNEC (FR)
1 AUTHORIZED MISSION (GB) (22) 066-6 4 11-4
B g Authorized (IRE) - Micro Mission (IRE)
William Maggs
D&D Armstrong Ltd Chris Grant, Billingham
Br D & D Armstrong Ltd North Sea Logistics
TIMEFORMVIEWNo better than mid-division in a trio of bumpers for Iain Jardine After 7 months off ahead of stable/hurdling debut, in need of the experience when sixth of 10 in maiden at Hexham (20.1f, good to soft) 22 days ago. Has work to do TFRHHIII BHA-
2 FORSA BAY (IRE) (301) 0- 4 11-4
B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Flowers On Sunday (IRE)
Adam Wedge
Mr T. P. Radford L J Morgan, Waltham On The Wolds
Br Oliver Loughlin
TIMEFORM VIEW Made some appeal on paper and attracted support, but offered little first time up when well-beaten tenth of 11 in bumper at Wetherby (16f, heavy) in February. Makes hurdles debut after 10 months off. TFRHHIII BHA-
3 GORVENNEC (FR) (17) P-4153
B g Martaline - Rolandale (FR)
Miss Jean Matterson
5 11-4
Bruce Lynn
N. W. Alexander, Kinneston
Br Jacky Thomas Kinneston Bloodstock Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEW Irish point winner who showed more than on bumper debut when third of 7 in novice at Ayr (16f, good to soft) on hurdles bow 17 days ago, the winner a useful stayer on the Flat Merits consideration with that behind him. TFRHHHHI BHA-
4 JEUNE PRINCE (FR) (44) 45-4
Gr g Al Namix (FR) - Une d’Ex (FR)
5 11-4
Derek Fox
Misses P & F Simpson Lucinda Russell, Kinross
Br Mr Nicolas Foessel Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
TIMEFORMVIEWPromise both starts in bumpers and, after 7 months off, also showed encouragement on hurdling debut when fourth of 10 in novice at Carlisle (17.2f, soft) in October. Form from last time working out well and he’s a major player TFRHHHHH BHA-
5 JUS DE CITRON (FR) (224) 44- 5 11-4
B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Rapide (FR)
Mr Edward J. Ware
NON-RUNNER
Harry Derham, Newbury
Br Michel Parreau-Delhote OLBG
TIMEFORM VIEW€115,000 3-y-o. Brother to 2 winners, including smart hurdler Elfile (2m-2 1/2m winner), and half-brother to 2 winners, including fairly useful hurdler/useful chaser Diligent (2m-2 3/4m winner) Made frame both starts in Irish points One to note with tongue strap on TFRHHHII BHA-
6 LONG TIME LISTENER (IRE) (270) 16- D 4 11-4
B g Telescope (IRE) - Theatre Act
Mrs S. J. Easterby
Br Ballinaroone Stud Ltd
Sean Quinlan
Tim Easterby, Malton
TIMEFORMVIEW Point bumper winner but finished a remote sixth in a bumper under Rules at this course (16.9f, heavy) in March. The betting is perhaps the best guide now hurdling after 9 months off. TFRHHIII BHA-
7 SMALL TOWN KID (IRE) (258) 31- 5 11-4
Br g Getaway (GER) - Knocknaree Lady (IRE) Ryan Mania The Getaways James Ewart, Langholm
TIMEFORM VIEWThird in an Irish bumper on sole outing for Ciaran Murphy and again hinted at ability making second start over hurdles when sixth of 9 in maiden at Carlisle (17.2f, good to soft) 19 days ago. Will be of more appeal in handicaps, though TFRHHIII BHA-
9 BLACKWATER LILLY (GB)
(73) 422
B f Casamento (IRE) - Cuckoo’s Calling
Richard & Katherine Gilbert
Br Straightline Bloodstock
4 10-11
Craig Nichol
Brian Ellison, Malton
Straightline (NE) Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWImproved from bumper debut when runner-up to a next-time-out winner at Uttoxeter in July, before finding only a newcomer too strong at Kelso (16.2f, good) in September Makes plenty of appeal as she switches to hurdling TFRHHHHI BHA-
10 WENDYWILLDO
(GB) (263) 41-
B f Dragon Dancer - Barely Black (IRE)
Miss S. J. Turner
Br Miss S. J. Turner
4 10-11
Joe Williamson
Danny Brooke, Middleham
Danny Brooke Racing
TIMEFORMVIEWBit of promise when making the frame in a Catterick bumper on debut and stepped forward from that effort when winning at Sedgefield (16.8f, heavy) in March. Could be in the mix as she goes hurdling after 8 months off. TFRHHHII BHA-
DECLARED RUNNERS 10
Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 8. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 7.
Probable S.P’s: 11-4 Blackwater Lilly (GB), 4-1 Jeune Prince (FR), 13-2 Gorvennec (FR), Wendywilldo (GB), 9-1 Small Town Kid (IRE), 18-1 Willie Shake Hands (IRE), 28-1 Forsa Bay (IRE), Long Time Listener (IRE), 40-1 Authorized Mission (GB)
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares
NEWBURY 3.00 3m 1f 214y
THE CORAL GOLD CUP HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE)
for four yrs old and upwards
Total prize fund £250000 Owners Prize Money 1st £108950, 2nd £44725, 3rd £22375, 4th £11175, 5th £5600, 6th £2800. (Penalty Value £142375) Weights raised 11lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
1 SAM BROWN (GB) (28) 45126-3 C 12 12-0
Br B g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Cream Cracker (Sir Harry Lewis (USA)) Freddie Gingell (3) J
O The Exors of Mr T. C. Frost Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster T
Br Ch g Midnight Legend - Well Connected (Presenting) James Bowen J
O Mr Frank McAleavy Dan Skelton, Alcester T
B Swanbridge Bloodstock Limited The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S TIMEFORMVIEWSignedoffafine2022/23seasonbylanding25fGrade3handicapattheAintreeGrandNationalmeeting.Offfor11monthsafterafallinthisracelastyear butshapedasifretaininghisabilitywhenthirdof4in19fWetherbyhandicap4weeksago.Hasfirst-timecheekpiecesaddedtotonguestrap. TFRHHHII BHA151
3
SENIOR CHIEF
(GB) (35) 3/321P-1 7 11-11
Br B g Gentlewave (IRE) - Absalom’s Girl (Saddlers’ Hall (IRE)) Darragh O’Keeffe J
O Lucky In Life Syndicate Henry de Bromhead, Ireland T
B Swanbridge Bloodstock Limited TIMEFORMVIEWUsefulhurdlerandquicklymadeupintoabetterchaser bouncingbackfromaflopintheIrishGrandNationalwhenmakingawinningreappearance in25fCheltenhamhandicap5weeksago.Thatwasonlyhisfifthstartoverfencessosurpriseifthereisn’tmoretocome.Amustfortheshortlist TFRHHHHI BHA151
4 HORANTZAU D’AIRY (FR) (41) 1-23F22 BF 7 11-9
Br B g Legolas (JPN) - Panzara d’Airy (FR) (Cadoubel (FR)) Danny Mullins J
O Mrs S. Ricci W. P. Mullins, Ireland T
B Mr Claude-Yves Pelsy
TIMEFORMVIEWWontwiceoverfencesinthespringandhasshownbetterformindefeatthisseason,finishingrunner-upinKerry and Munster Nationals (both 3m) on his last 2 outings. Merits plenty of respect for his top Irish stable. TFRHHHHI BHA149
5 COLONEL HARRY
(IRE) (27) 21364-2 BF 7 11-8
Br Ch g Shirocco (GER) - Stateable Case (IRE) (Be My Native (USA)) Gavin Sheehan J
Br B g Martaline - Sortie de Secours (FR) (Trempolino (USA)) Benjamin Gelhay J
O Andy Peake & Haras De St Voir N. George & A. Zetterholm, France T
B Haras De Saint-Voir
TIMEFORMVIEW Smart French chaser who was back to his best when third in the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris at Auteuil in May Two good runs at Compiegne this autumn, including a Group 3 win. Looks on a feasible mark for his first run in Britain. TFRHHHII BHA148
7 BROADWAY BOY (IRE) (35) 21135-3 D BF 6 11-8
Br B g Malinas (GER) - Broadway Theatre (IRE) (King’s Theatre (IRE)) Sam Twiston-Davies J
O Mr D. M. Proos Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham T
B John Leahy Courtiers Investment Services Limited S
TIMEFORM VIEW Three wins in a productive novice chase campaign, including a valuable staying handicap at Cheltenham. Reappeared with a respectable 12 1/4 lengths third of 14 to Senior Chief there (25f, good) 35 days ago. TFRHHHII BHA148
8 GRANDERO BELLO (FR) (34) 2124/0-1 8 11-7
Br B g Great Pretender (IRE) - Tchi Tchi Bang Bang (FR) (Perrault) Ricky Doyle J
O J. Reed/R. Caddick Eddie & Patrick Harty, Ireland T
B Mr Remi Boucret & Mr Arnaud Charrie
TIMEFORM VIEW Doubled his tally over fences when making light of an 8-month absence in 22.5f Galway handicap 5 weeks ago. The form has been boosted by the third winning since. TFRHHHII BHA147
9 KANDOO KID (FR) (232) 212P23- C 8 11-5
Br Gr g Kapgarde (FR) - Scarlett du Mesnil (IRE) (Muhtathir) Harry Cobden J
O Mr Michael Geoghegan Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat T
B Henri Devin Morson Group S
TIMEFORM VIEW Won a 2 1/2m course handicap last December Ended his season with fine placed efforts in Greatwood here (2 1/2m again) and Topham at Aintree (21f). Ranpoorlyonpreviousattemptat3mbutthewayhestuckonintheTophamsuggestslongertripsshouldbewithinrangethisseason.Hashadwindsurgery. TFRHHHII BHA145
10
REMASTERED (GB) (21)
P/0PP-1F 11 11-5
Br Ch g Network (GER) - Cathodine Cayras (FR) (Martaline)
O Brocade Racing
Jack Tudor J
David Pipe, Wellington T
B Elms Stud Co Ltd & G. Peck W & S Recycling S TIMEFORMVIEWRunner-upinthisracein2022.Lastseasonwasawrite-off(includingpulledupinthis)buthebouncedbacktoformtotakeadvantageofhis reducedmarkonhisWincantonreappearanceinOctober Stillgoingokaywhenfell4outinBadgerBeerbacktheresince. TFRHHHII BHA145 (-1)
11
GALIA
DES
LITEAUX
(FR) (27) 12240-2 BF 8 11-4
Br B m Saddler Maker (IRE) - Serie Love (FR) (Agent Bleu (FR))
O Mr Michael Ariss
Harry Skelton J
Dan Skelton, Alcester T
B Henri Gruloos The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes S TIMEFORM VIEW Listed/Graded winner who showed she can also mix it in competitive handicaps when second in the Classic Chase at Warwick (19f) in January Shapedwellwhensecondin21/2mCarlislemares’listedchaseonreappearanceandthestepbackupintripissuretosuit Considered. TFRHHHHI BHA144
12 VICTTORINO (FR) (263) 4/1104P- 6 11-3
Br B g It’s Gino (GER) - Victtorie (FR) (Vettori (IRE))
Charlie Deutsch J
O Martians Racing Venetia Williams, Hereford T
B Jean-Paul & Marie-Odile Deshayes Spillers Horse Feeds S TIMEFORMVIEWFrenchimportwhowonbacktobackover3matAscotforVenetiaWilliamsatthistimelastyear,latterlythevaluableSilverCup.Endedhiscampaignwith adisappointingrunattheCheltenhamFestivalbutnosurprisewerehetoresumehisprogressionbackfromabreakwiththeyardgoingwell. TFRHHHHH BHA143
13 HENRY’S FRIEND (IRE) (23) 5111P-4 C 7 10-13
Br B g Shirocco (GER) - Easter Bonnie (IRE) (Milan)
O Hemmings Racing Jonjo & A.J. O’Neill, Cheltenham T
B Sean Murphy Trust Inns Limited S
TIMEFORMVIEWUsefulhandicapperwhowasplacedintheWelshGrandNationalatChepstowandGrandNationalTrialatHaydocklastwinter Made anencouragingreturntoactionatCarlisle4weeksagobutthismightnotplacequiteenoughemphasisonstaminaforhim. TFRHHIII BHA136
DECLARED RUNNERS 14 2023: DATSALRIGHTGINO (GER) 7 10 7 Gavin Sheehan 16-1 (Jamie Snowden) 20 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2. Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 4, 5, 9, 10. Visor, Tongue Strap worn by No. 1. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 3, 11, 13. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 9. Stewards Note:
KANDOO KID: Following its run on 12/4/2024 it was reported that the horse lost a shoe.
Probable S.P’s: 11-2 Senior Chief (GB), 7-1 Colonel Harry (IRE), 8-1 Broadway Boy (IRE), Victtorino (FR), 12-1 Horantzau d’Airy (FR), Kandoo Kid (FR), Galia des Liteaux (FR), 16-1 Midnight River (GB), General En Chef (FR), Henry’s Friend (IRE), 25-1 Sam Brown (GB), Grandero Bello (FR), 28-1 Iron Bridge (IRE), 50-1 Remastered (GB)
PLAY SMARTER
Venetia Williams has her team in form so perhaps the reappearing VICTTORINO, who has gone well fresh before, can take advantage of a mark which has dipped to only 1lb higher than when landing another valuable handicap last December. Senior Chief should have more to offer on the back of last month’s Cheltenham success and is second choice ahead of Galia des Liteaux.
TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.VICTTORINO (FR) 2.SENIOR CHIEF 3.GALIA DES LITEAUX (FR)
Britain’s best horseracing
Enjoy the very best nd, ses ays j y y racing, year-roun across 36 racecours and 170 raceda
SEVENTH RACE 3.20
TWO MILES ABOUT SEVEN AND A HALF FURLONGS (2M 7F 91YDS) FOR FOUR YRS OLD AND UPWARDS
Total prize fund £70000 x Owners Prize Money. 1st £30506, 2nd £12523, 3rd £6265, 4th £3129, 5th £1568, 6th £784. (Penalty Value £39865) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (19-24): B Ellison (13 wins from 87 runners, 15%) runs ANGLERS CRAG TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): D Skelton (8 wins from 56 runners, 14%) runs JET PLANE
FANCY THAT: V Williams won this race in 2016 and 2022. The stable runs FRERO BANBOU today. LONGEST TRAVELLERS: GUSTAVIAN & BLACKJACK MAGIC trained by A Honeyball, Beaminster, 363 miles.
GUSTAVIAN made an eye-catching return from out of the weights when third in the Badger Beer at Wincanton 3 weeks ago and tops the shortlist racing off his proper mark now. The well backed The Changing Man was yet to be asked for his effort when falling at the sixteenth in the same race so is worth another chance, with top-weight Marble Sands also worth considering on the back of a career-best win in a Listed race at Carlisle
1-2-3: 1.GUSTAVIAN (IRE) 2.THE CHANGING MAN (IRE) 3.MARBLE SANDS (FR)
1 MARBLE SANDS (FR) (27) 14P16-1
8 12-0
Gr g Martaline - Sans Rien (FR) Nick Slatter (3) DL Adams, JA Adams & G McPherson David Killahena & Graeme McPherson, Stow-On-The-Wold
Br Mr G. Codre & Mrs. A. & K Kepa
TIMEFORMVIEWUseful hurdler who scored twice over fences last season at Ayr and Musselburgh. Fit from the Flat when making a winning return in 4-runner listed race at Carlisle 4 weeks ago and respected back in a handicap over a trip he should stay TFRHHHHI BHA146
2 KINONDO KWETU (GB) (35) PP112P D
B g Casamento (IRE) - Asinara (GER)
8 11-9
Jonathan England
Gunalt Partnership Sam England, Guiseley
Br Allseasons Bloodstock Yorkshire Health Solutions Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWSnapped a run of poor form when scoring at Uttoxeter and Worcester this summer before good second of 5 in handicap chase at Perth (23.8f, soft, 3/1) However, found his run of good form coming to a shuddering halt at Cheltenham 5 weeks ago, a sloppy round of jumping part of the problem TFRHHIII BHA141
3
BLACKJACK MAGIC
(GB) (210) 1/145F-P
B g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - One Wild Night
9 11-4
Richie McLernon T Hayward, O’Gorman, Walker & Patersons Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster
Br C F C. Jackson P3P Partners LLP
TIMEFORM VIEW Returned with success in the Badger Beer at Wincanton last season and mostly held form well after. Good record fresh so not dismissed after 7 months off. TFRHHHII BHA136
4 NEON MOON (IRE) (28) 551-313 D
B g No Risk At All (FR) - Hidden Horizons (IRE)
Brocade Racing
8 11-4
Conor O’Farrell
David Pipe, Wellington
Br Mr C. McDonnell W & S Recycling
TIMEFORM VIEW Not proved the most reliable but he advanced his form on the back of wind surgery when scoring at Chepstow on return and backed that up when third at Ascot 4 weeks ago. In the mix with a repeat TFRHHHHI BHA136
5 JET PLANE
(IRE) (45) 0511P-3
B g Jet Away - Court Gamble (IRE)
Norman Lake & Susan Carsberg
8 11-3
Fergus Gillard
Dan Skelton, Alcester
Br Thistletown Stud The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants), Ladbrokes
TIMEFORMVIEWGained a fourth victory of 2023/24 in comfortable style at Market Rasen (19f) in April. Gave his all after 6 months off when third at Wetherby last month and more needed off the same mark in better race here TFRHHHII BHA135
6 ANGLERS CRAG (GB) (224) 0/1111P- C
Bl g Multiplex - Overyou
Mr Derrick Mossop
9 11-2
Craig Nichol
Brian Ellison, Malton
Br D. Mossop Jacksons Timber Limited, Brian Ellison Racing Limited, Jacksons Timber Ltd
TIMEFORM VIEWBig improver for new stable after wind surgery, making it 4-4 when overcoming mistakes to edged ahead close home in Eider here (33f, soft) in February. Didn’t get away with similar errors in Scottish National final start (also bled) Mark high enough now and opposable back down in trip on return. TFRHHHII BHA134
7 BOWTOGREATNESS (IRE) (23) 530-651 D 8 11-1
Br g Westerner - Miss Baden (IRE)
Harry Redknapp & Sophie Pauling
Kielan Woods
Ben Pauling, Naunton
Br Mr J. McDonald Fitzdares
TIMEFORM VIEW Took advantage of career-low mark when finally off the mark over fences at Newbury 3 weeks ago, jumping boldly at the head of affairs. 4lb rise not insurmountable but will find this more competitive no doubt. TFRHHHHI BHA133
TIMEFORMVIEWProgressive over hurdles but mixed record over fences last season Went off towards the top of the betting but failed to complete in Badger Beer at Wincanton on return, too far out to suggest outcome. Not taken lightly. TFRHHHHI BHA130
9 SPECIAL RATE
(IRE) (28) 41130-U C D
B g Valirann (FR) - Estuary Princess (IRE)
7 10-12
Sean Quinlan
Quinn Lizzie Quinlan, Appleby-in-Westmorland
Br Francis Flynn
TIMEFORMVIEWEnjoyed a most productive campaign over hurdles/fences last term, winning 7 from 10 starts for Philip Kirby. Shaped okay until let down by a rare jumping lapse at Ayr on yard debut/return 4 weeks ago. Career best required up in class. TFRHHIII BHA130
10 DONNY BOY
(IRE) (28) 22433-2 C
B g Westerner - Lady Roania (IRE)
8 10-9
Bruce Lynn
Mrs L. Maclennan N. W. Alexander, Kinneston
Br Mrs Karen McLoughney Kinneston Bloodstock Ltd TIMEFORMVIEWGoodsecondof5inhandicapchase(9/2)atAyr(20.5f,goodtosoft)onhisreturnbutagaindidn’tlookthemoststraightforwardandit’sprobably no coincidence he’s still without a win since his hurdling debut nearly 3 years back, spoiling his chance by jumping repeatedly right. TFRHHHII BHA127
11 FRERO BANBOU (FR) (21) 2P66P-6
B g Apsis - Lady Banbou (FR)
Mr P. Davies
9 10-9
Ned Fox (5)
Venetia Williams, Hereford
Br Madame Evelyne Banchereau Faucets Limited TIMEFORMVIEWLosingrundatesbacktoJanuary2022buthe’srunseveralfineracesindefeatsince,includingwhenplacedinacoupleofPremierHandicapsatCheltenham last season Shaped better than the bare result at Aintree on return and he’s lurking on a dangerous mark. Stamina for 3m is unproven. TFRHHHHI BHA127
12
SOME SCOPE (GB) (35) 51124-P
B g Telescope (IRE) - Rosygo (IRE)
6 10-7
Paul O’Brien
Carl Hinchy Mark Scott and Nigel Horler Richard Hobson, Little Rissington
Br Mr W. L. Smith & Partners RH Bloodstock
TIMEFORMVIEWHad a good first season over fences, winning on 2 of his 5 starts and ending campaign with creditable fourth of 14 in handicap chase at Cheltenham in April. Looked rusty there on return but still needs to leave that well behind up in class. TFRHHIII BHA125
13 GUSTAVIAN (IRE) (21) 6U343-3
B g Mahler - Grange Oscar (IRE)
9 10-6
Sean Bowen
Decimus Racing I Anthony Honeyball, Beaminster
Br Martin C. Fleming Geegeez.co.uk
TIMEFORM VIEWSole success over fences to date came in 3-runner affair at Exeter back in February 2023 but made an encouraging return considering he was 4lb out of the handicap and got badly hampered by a faller when third in Badger Beer at Wincanton 3 weeks ago Potentially on a handy mark if building on that. TFRHHHHH BHA124
DECLARED RUNNERS 13
Tongue Strap worn by No. 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 10. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 12. Stewards Note:
NEON MOON: Following its run on 2/11/2024 it was reported that the horse lost a shoe.
ANGLERS CRAG: Following its run on 20/4/2024 it was reported that the horse was found to have bled.
SOME SCOPE: Following its run on 26/10/2024 it was reported that the horse jumped poorly.
The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares
FIXTURE LIST 2025
= Live Entertainment (A) = Afternoon Racing (E) = Evening Racing Bold text = Feature Day = Jumps Turf = All Weather Track
JANUARY
Wed 1 (A)
2
4
8
10
11
14
16
17
21
23
28
31
FEBRUARY
New Years Raceday
Racing
Racing
Racing
JULY Sat 1 Tue 4
8 Thu 13 Fri 14 Sat 15 Thu 20 Sat 22 (A) Thu 27
MARCH
Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing Eider Chase Afternoon Racing
Racing Afternoon Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing
Racing
2
4
9
14
17
21
27
30
1 Thu 6 Fri 7 Fri 14 Mon 17 Tue 18 Thu 20 Sat 22 Mon 24 Wed 26 Thu 27 Sat 29 (A) NOVEMBER Sat 1 Mon 3 Tue 4 Thur 6 Fri 7 Mon 10
12 Thu 13 Sat 15 (A) Thu 20 Sat 22 Tue 25 Sat 29 Mon 31
APRIL
Sat 5 (A) Thu 10 Fri 18 (A) Grand National Raceday Evening Racing All Weather Championship Final Sat 26 (A) Gainford Group Ladies Day
Racing
Racing St Patricks Raceday Evening Racing Evening Racing Evening Racing Evening Racing Afternoon Racing
JUNE Fri 2 Sun 11 MAY Evening Racing Afternoon Racing
Thu 26 (A) Fri 27 (E) Sat 28 (A)
Seaton Delaval Trophy Day Gosforth Park Cup Night Jenningsbet Northumberland Plate Day
Tue 2
5
9 Thu 11
13
16
19 Sat 20 Mon 29
Fixture dates, themes and entertainment may change. Please check the website for up to date information:
RACE CONDITIONS
First Race 11.53 - THE PAUL FERGUSON’S JUMPERS TO FOLLOW ‘INTRODUCTORY’ JUVENILE
HURDLE RACE
(CLASS 2) (Go North Grey Bomber Juvenile Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15843 to the winning horse The second to receive £7290, the third £3645, the fourth £1824 and the fifth £909. for juvenile three yrs old, which have not run in more than one hurdle race. Enter by noon, November 25th and pay £150 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Weights: 11st each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 5lb. Weatherbys have kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner In addition, they will give £50 to the person judged to be responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. The British Horseracing Authority’s Development Fund has generously contributed £10000 towards the prize money for this race. This race is a qualifier for the Go North Grey Bomber Juvenile Hurdle Series Final, to be run over a distance of about 2m at Musselburgh on 21st March, 2025. In order to qualify for the Final, horses must have Started in two or more Jump races in the North during the current season, at least one of which must have been a Go North Grey Bomber Series qualifier 9 entries at £150.Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £12117; Second £6057; Third £3030; Fourth £1515; Fifth £756. (Penalty Value £15843) A SEE PAGE 12 FOR THIS RACE. Second Race 12.28 - THE LIVING NORTH HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 4) (Go North Monet’s Garden Series Qualifier) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £7921 to the winning horse The second to receive £3645, the third £1822, the fourth £912 and the fifth £454. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-120 (also open to such horses rated 121 and 122 - see Standard Conditions). £75 stake if the horse is rated 94 or higher, or £15 stake if the horse is rated 93 or lower with £60 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Penalties, after November 23rd, 2024, for each steeple chase won 7lb. Living North has kindly sponsored this race and will provide the person responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out with £50 This race is a qualifier for the Go North Monet’s Garden Series Final, to be run over a distance of about 2m 4f at Carlisle on 23rd March, 2025. In order to qualify for the Final, horses must have Started in three or more Jump races in the North during the current season, at least one of which must have been a Go North Monet’s Garden Series qualifier 29 entries, 0 at £15 and 29 at £75. - Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £6059; Second £3029; Third £1515; Fourth £758; Fifth £378. (Penalty Value £7921.50) Weights raised 2lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. SEE PAGE 16 FOR THIS RACE.
Third Race 1.03 - THE WEATHERBYS nhstallions.co.uk ‘THE FRENCH FURZE’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10406 to the winning horse The second to receive £4784, the third £2392, the fourth £1196, the fifth £598 and the sixth £298. for novice four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, November 25th and pay £100 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 13lb; 5-y-o and up 11st Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a Class 3 to Class 5 hurdle race 5lb Of 2 hurdle races or of a Class 1 to Class 2 hurdle race 8lb. Weatherbys have kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner In addition, they will give £50 to the person judged to be responsible for the best turned out horse in this race. 16 entries at £100. - Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money Winner £7950; Second £3974; Third £1988; Fourth £994; Fifth £496; Sixth £248. (Penalty Value £10406) A SEE PAGE 20 FOR THIS RACE.
Fourth Race 1.35 - THE BETMGM HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10562 to the winning horse The second to receive £4860, the third £2430, the fourth £1216 and the fifth £606. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-135 (also open to such horses rated 136 and 137 - see Standard Conditions). £100 stake if the horse is rated 109 or higher, or £20 stake if the horse is rated 108 or lower with £80 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Penalties, after November 23rd, 2024, for each steeple chase won 7lb. BetMGM have kindly sponsored this race 13 entries, 2 at £20 and 11 at £100. - Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money Winner £8078; Second £4038; Third £2020; Fourth £1010; Fifth £504. (Penalty Value £10562) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. SEE PAGE 24 FOR THIS RACE.
Fifth Race 2.10 - THE BETMGM FIGHTING FIFTH HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £65492 to the winning horse The second to receive £24575, the third £12305, the fourth £6129, the fifth £3082 and the sixth £1541. for four yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 130 or more by the BHA Handicapper, taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation.. Enter by noon, November 12th and pay £140 stake, Confirm by noon, November 25th and pay £435, Supplementary Entry by noon, November 25th and pay £2430 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Weights: 11st 10lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb. BetMGM has kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner In addition, they will give a cash prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race. The ‘Fighting Fifth’ Challenge Trophy, kindly given by the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, will be presented by Betfair and then held by the winning owner until November 1st, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BetMGM. 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. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Runners will be led past the stands before cantering to the start. (No confirmation of entry is required for Supplementary entries). 18 entries, 7 at £140, 11 at £575. - Closed November 12th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £50117; Second £20574; Third £10293; Fourth £5141; Fifth £2576; Sixth £1288. (Penalty Value £65492.50) A SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE. Sixth Race 2.45 - THE BETMGM EBF ‘NATIONAL HUNT’ MAIDEN HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (Qualifier) (GBB RACE)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10892 to the winning horse The second to receive £5018, the third £2508 and the fourth £1256. for maiden four, five and six yrs old, which are E.B.F eligible, which have not run in a flat race. Enter by noon, November 25th and pay £100 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Weights: 11st 4lb each Fillies and mares allowed 7lb. BetMGM along with THE TRUSTEES OF THE EUROPEAN BREEDERS’ FUND have kindly contributed £1000 towards the prize money for this race. Horses placed first, second, third or fourth in this race will qualify for the Final (A Handicap) of the E.B.F ‘National Hunt’ Novices’ Hurdle Race Series, to be run over two miles about four furlongs at Sandown Park on Saturday, March 8th, 2025. 17 entries at £100. - Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8346; Second £4174; Third £2086; Fourth £1044. (Penalty Value £10892) A SEE PAGE 38 FOR THIS RACE. Seventh Race 3.20 - THE BETMGM REHEARSAL HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £39865 to the winning horse The second to receive £14959, the third £7490, the fourth £3731, the fifth £1876 and the sixth £938. for four yrs old and upwards. £350 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher, or £70 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £280 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. November 28th. Penalties, after November 23rd, 2024, a winner of a steeple chase 5lb (No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st). BetMGM has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner In addition, they will give a £50 cash prize to the person who, in their opinion, is responsible for the horse judged to be 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 BetMGM. 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. 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 18 entries, 2 at £70 and 16 at £350. - Closed November 25th, 2024. Owners Prize Money. Winner £30506; Second £12523; Third £6265; Fourth £3129; Fifth £1568; Sixth £784. (Penalty Value £39865) Weights raised 8lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. SEE PAGE 44 FOR THIS RACE.