Cheltenham Racecard - Friday 14th March by Weatherbys

FRIDAY 14 MARCH 2025

OFFICIAL RACECARD £5

THE JOCKEY CLUB

WELCOMES YOU

Gold Cup Day at the Cheltenham Festival is finally here, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to a sold-out day of world-class racing!

The excitement is palpable as we prepare for an unforgettable day of action, with Galopin Des Champs aiming to make history by securing an extraordinary third consecutive Boodles Gold Cup victory. All eyes will be on him as he looks to follow in the footsteps of racing legends and cement his place as one of the greatest champions in the sport.

The day’s highlight, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup at 4:00pm, promises to be an epic battle for supremacy. Will Galopin Des Champs continue his reign, or will a new challenger rise to claim the prestigious trophy? With a thrilling line-up of elite competitors, the atmosphere will be electric as fans eagerly await the outcome.

Another key race to look out for is the JCB Triumph Hurdle at 1:20 pm, where British rivals East India Dock and Lulamba will go head-to-head in the Juvenile division, each vying for top spot. Who will emerge victorious in this exciting clash of future stars?

Throughout the day, fans will be treated to more exceptional races, including the William Hill County Handicap Hurdle Race at 2:00pm, the Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase at 2:40pm and the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at 3:20pm, with all races featuring fierce competition and top-class talent.

Today’s action kicks off at 11:30am in the William Hill Centaur, where William Hill’s Preview Panel will offer expert insights, providing race analysis and predictions from leading figures in the racing world Then, head to the Parade Ring at 12:25pm for our Raceday Preview Show, where racing experts will give their thoughts on the day’s key races, offering the perfect build-up to an afternoon of thrilling action followed by a memorable performance from Laura Wright

For those seeking a premium experience, The Orchard offers exclusive hospitality, top-tier service, and a refined atmosphere for Club Enclosure ticket holders, Owners and Trainers, and Cheltenham Annual Members

A huge thank you to all our supporters, as Gold Cup Day is now officially sold out! Your continued loyalty makes this the biggest day on the racing calendar, and we are delighted to welcome you to what promises to be a truly historic occasion. The Guinness Village will also be celebrating the spirit of the day, offering an authentic taste of Irish culture alongside the thrills of the festival.

It’s been a fantastic week here at Cheltenham so far, filled with thrilling races, unforgettable moments, and a vibrant atmosphere. Let’s hope we end this incredible festival on a high note with an epic day of racing, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Enjoy your day at Cheltenham, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.

MARTIN ST QUINTON Chief Executive Chairman

GUY LAVENDER

Races 1 & 2

Races 5 & 6

RACE STARTS

Race 1 - 1:20pm

Race 7 Race 3

Race 4

The JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (2m 1f)

Race 2 - 2:00pm

The William Hill County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (2m 1f)

Race 3 - 2:40pm

The Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase (Registered as The Liberthine Mares’ Chase) (Grade 2) (GBB Race) (2m 4 1/2f)

Race 4 - 3:20pm

The Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as The Spa Novices’ Hurdle) (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (3m)

Race 5 - 4:00pm

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (3m 2 1/2f)

COURSE MAP

NEW COURSE

Race 6 - 4:40pm

The St. James’s Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase (3m 2 1/2f)

Race 7 - 5:20pm

The Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (GBB Race) (2m 4 1/2f)

Cheltenham Racecourse has 75 acres (30 hectares) of racing surface with five different tracks – a Chase and Hurdle course on the Old and New Courses and the Glenfarclas Cross Country Course. A team of 10 Groundstaff look after the track day to day and on raceday the team increases to 50, and 100 at The Festival.

TO DA Y ’S R AC E SP ONS OR S

RACEDAY OFFICIALS

RACE CONDITIONS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE 78&79

CHAIRMAN

Martin St Quinton COMMITTEE

John Inverdale

Max McNeill

Martin Pope

Margaret Arthur

Zara Tindall

Michael Wainwright

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Guy Lavender

HEAD OF RACING & CLERK OF THE COURSE

Jon Pullin

ASSISTANT CLERKS OF THE COURSE

Jason Loosemore & Harry Phipps

REGIONAL HEAD OF OPERATIONS

Gemma Steve

FINANCE MANAGER

Tom Walker

COMMUNICATIONS

MANAGER – WEST

Megan Furse

PARTNERSHIPS

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Abigail Thomas

GROUP HEAD OF HOSPITALITY

Claire Leonard HEAD OF MARKETING

Louise Dodds

ASSISTANT

GENERAL MANAGER

Andre Klein

HEAD GROUNDSPERSON

Alastair King

GENERAL MANAGER, JOCKEY CLUB CATERING

Matthew Davies

TOTE MANAGER

Paul Ritchie

STEWARDS

Shaun Parker (Chief Steward)

Roger Bellamy

(Stewards’ Panel Chair)

Daniel Andrews

Milly Bersey

Thomas Evetts

Kate Smith

Guy Upton

STARTERS

Robert Supple

James Stenning

William Jordan

Sophia Upton

JUDGES

David Hicks

Guy Lewis

CLERKS OF THE SCALES

Chris Hill

Robert Cuthbert

HANDICAPPERS

Graeme Smith

Dominic Gardner-Hill

EQUINE WELFARE & INTEGRITY OFFICERS

Martin Knight

Michael Turner

Mel Baker

Christopher Maiden

Jane Southam

Joanna Vickers

Rachel Barnett

Stuart Shilston

Andrea Kelly

Lisa Cook

Graham Gray

Alec Dent

Kelly Corke MEDICAL OFFICERS

Lee Humphreys SRMO

Jon Mutimer

Andy Simpson

Rick Brown

Rob Orme CROWD DOCTORS

Jim Holmes

Suzannah Hoult

MEDICAL CO-ORDINATOR

Kevin Dickens

VETERINARY SURGEONS

Liam Kearns SRVS

Ian Camm

Andrew Harrison

Henry Tremaine

Vittorio Caramello

John Campbell

Tom Campbell

Laura Grey FARRIERS

David Hall

Alex Hall

Mike Cooper

VETERINARY OFFICERS

Graham Potts

Kate Maxwell

Sally Taylor

Jessica Rainbow

COMMENTATORS

Mark Johnson

Stewart Machin

BETTING RING MANAGERS

Andy Collins

Neil Pateman

Malcolm Hart

Grant Newman

Macauley Chapman

The Jockey Club would like to thank our Group Partners for their support in 2025

BE T TI NG E XP L AI NE D

Select your horse. Note their name and saddlecloth number.

Choose your bet. ‘To win’ or ‘each-way’ are popular types of bet.

‘To win’ is for your horse to come ﬁrst.

‘Each-way’ is for your horse to come ﬁrst or to be placed. It’s two bets, so ‘£2 each-way’ = £4 total bet.

Decide the amount –or stake – you are comfortable to bet.

Place your bet. There are different places to bet on course; The Tote, racecourse bookmakers, betting shop or online. Each option offers a different experience.

Collect. Once ‘Weighed-in’ has been announced, present your betting slip and collect any winnings.

A quick way to see a horse’s past performance. These are its recent ﬁnishing positions.

Look out for Letters:

C = Has won at this course

D = Has won over this distance

CD = Has won over this distance at this course

BF = Was a beaten favourite

- = New racing season

/ = Missed racing season

P = Was pulled-up and didn’t ﬁnish the race

F = Horse fell

U = Rider unseated

R = Horse refused to race

CO = The horse was forced out of a race by a loose horse

B = Horse was brought down

S = Horse slipped

r = The horse ran around a jump or took the wrong course in a ﬂat race

d = Disqualiﬁed

Bold form

ﬁgures = performance in all-weather (Flat) or Point-to-Point (Jump) races How the experts rate the horse’s chances:

BHA rating = the higher the number, the better the horse.

Timeform

out for the summary of

for

MARTIN ST.QUINTONCHAIRMAN

MAX MCNEILL

ZARATINDALL

MICHAEL WAINWRIGHT

JOHN INVERDALE

MARTIN POPE

MARGARETARTHUR

LEADING THE RACE FOR 80 YEARS

FA CT S AN D ST AT IS TI CS

RACE ONE

THE JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE

RACE DESCRIPTION The JCB Triumph Hurdle is the Championship race for juveniles (four-year-olds) and is historically one of the most open races at The Festival. Thanks to the introduction of the Fred Winter, it usually means the ﬁeld is much smaller and more competitive. As is usual in a Grade 1 Championship race, all horses carry the 11st 2lb, apart from the ﬁllies’, who get a 7lb allowance.

KEY TRENDS

won last time out

9 of the past 12 winners were trained in Ireland

LAST YEAR’S WINNER

MAJBOROUGH

A wide open renewal of the JCB Triumph Hurdle saw Willie Mullins arrive with his traditionally strong hand Storm Heart was the pick of Paul Townend but it was Mark Walsh and Majborough who would come home the winner after ﬁnding plenty for pressure Kargese looked to be travelling the better of the pair but Majborough relished the Cheltenham hill to come the winner by a length-and-ahalf Completing a one-two for Clostutton

GRADE 1

Run over two miles, 179 yards. 8 hurdles to be jumped

Total prize fund of £150,000 £84,405 to the winner

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years

TRAINER

Willie Mullins 4 winners

Today Willie saddles

Blue Lemons, Charlus, Larzac, Pappano, Poniros, Too Bossy For Us, Willy de Houelle, Lady Vega Allen, Lumiere du Large, Place de La Nation & Sainte Lucie

JOCKEY

Paul Townend 3 winners

Today Paul rides

Lady Vega Allen

FESTIVAL HISTORY

The JCB Triumph Hurdle certainly has a rich and interesting history. The race was introduced to the Racing Calendar in 1939, and was originally held at Hurst Park in Surrey. That race was won by Grey Talk, who was trained by George Batchelor and ridden by Serge Rochet. Although no race took place from 1940-1949 due to the war, in the following years it was regularly contested by horses trained in France with six of the first seven winners French-based.

As the leading event in the National Hunt calendar exclusively contested by juveniles, you would have thought that the two-mile and one-furlong (3,420 metres) contest would be a good source for Champion Hurdle winners, but Clair Soleil was the first of just four to achieve the feat when winning the 1953 Triumph Hurdle before bagging Champion Hurdle glory in 1955, both times under Fred Winter.

Prince Charlemagne proved a notable Triumph winner in 1954 as the Tommy Carey-trained gelding provided a certain Lester Piggott with one of his twenty hurdle race victories. Fred Winter was back in the winners’ enclosure in 1961 when partnering the Ryan Price-trained Cantab to victory and 12 months on, the legendary trainer saddled Beaver II, his second winner of the race, ridden this time by Josh Gifford.

When Hurst Park closed its doors, the Triumph Hurdle was transferred to Cheltenham for the 1965 renewal, although at that point it took place at the April meeting until it became part of The Festival in 1968 It was at this stage that the race attracted its first sponsor – the Daily Express, whose name was associated with the race from 1965-1996.

Arguably, the most impressive Triumph Hurdle winner came in the shape of the Brian Swift-trained Persian War who won the race in 1967 under Jimmy Uttley, before winning a hat-trick of Champion Hurdle titles in 1968, 1969 and 1970 In fact, until 2015, Uttley was the joint most successful jockey in the history of the race having also won on England’s Glory in 1968 and Boxer in 1971.

In 1985 a certain Nicky Henderson recorded his first Triumph Hurdle winner when Steve Smith Eccles partnered First Bout to victory. The race has proved kind to Henderson, who has won the race a further six times courtesy of Alone Success (1987), Katarino (1999), Zaynar (2009), Soldatino (2010), Peace And Co (2015) and Pentland Hills (2019), making him the leading trainer in the race’s history

Although better known for winning Classics, Sir Michael Stoute got in on the act when the Sheikh Mohammed-owed Kribensis took the spoils in 1988 before becoming the third horse to go on to Champion Hurdle glory in 1990.

The Elite Racing Club took over the sponsorship of the race in 1997 and saw the Ted Walsh-trained Commanche Court gallop to victory under Norman Williamson The Irish have a remarkable record at The Festival and recently have asserted their dominance over this race as well – Scolardy in 2002, when current sponsor JCB took up the reins, and more recently Our Conor, Tiger Roll, Ivanovich Gorbatov, Farclas, Burning Victory, Quilixios, Vauban, Lossiemouth and last years winner Majborough

Ivanovich Gorbatov’s success earned Barry Geraghty the honour of being the most successful jockey in the race’s history. His tally of five is unmatched, having also won aboard Spectroscope, Zaynar, Soldatino and Peace And Co.

In 2007, the tiny Alan King-trained Katchit became only the fourth horse to win the Triumph Hurdle before following up in the following season’s Champion Hurdle. Twelve months later Paul Nicholls won the first of two Triumph Hurdles thanks to Celestial Halo, Zarkandar adding the second in 2011.

In 2020 Goshen unseated at the last in terribly unlucky fashion when ten lengths clear Burning Victory capitalised to give Willie Mullins his first win since 2002 but in 2021 it was the turn of Quilixious to steam up the hill in a much less dramatic fashion.

Last year Willie Mullins found himself with a fourth winner in five years with this years Arkle favourite, Majborough. He followed in the footsteps of Vauban and the three-time festival winner, Lossiemouth.

TRIUMPH

HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 1) (GBB RACE)

for juvenile four yrs old ™ Total prize fund £150000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £64560, 2nd £26610, 3rd £13305, 4th £6660, 5th £3330, 6th £1665, 7th £825, 8th £420. (Penalty Value £84405)

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Breeder B

Sponsor S

Equipment E

FORM ANALYSIS - A CLOSER LOOK

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%)

runs BLUE LEMONS, CHARLUS, LARZAC, PAPPANO, PONIROS, TOO BOSSY FOR US, WILLY DE HOUELLE, LADY VEGA ALLEN, LUMIERE DU LARGE, PLACE DE LA NATION & SAINTE LUCIE

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%)

runs BLUE LEMONS, CHARLUS, LARZAC, PAPPANO, PONIROS, TOO BOSSY FOR US, WILLY DE HOUELLE, LADY VEGA ALLEN, LUMIERE DU LARGE, PLACE DE LA NATION & SAINTE LUCIE

1 BLUE LEMONS (IRE) (27)

B g Blue Point (IRE) - Solar Event 11-2

J Rachael Blackmore

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Sullivan Bloodstock Limited

B Norelands Bloodstock & M. Gilsenan

2 CHARLUS (IRE) (47)

B g Churchill (IRE) - Nobilis 11-2

J Sean O’Keeﬀe

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O The Why Knot Partnership

B RJB Bloodstock

3 EAST INDIA DOCK (GB)

(48)

B g Golden Horn - Diamond Bangle (IRE) 11-2

J Sam Twiston-Davies

T James Owen, Newmarket

O The Gredley Family

B Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd

S Unex Group

4 GIBBS ISLAND (GB) (27)

Ch g Iffraaj - Dream Book 11-2

J Stan Sheppard

T Tom Lacey, Woolhope

O RaceShare - Gibbs Island

B Smarden Thoroughbreds

S RaceShare

5 HELLO NEIGHBOUR (IRE) (41)

B g Harzand (IRE) - Je T’Adore (IRE) 11-2

J Keith Donoghue E Hood

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Mr Patrick Sheanon

B John Yarr

6 LARZAC (FR) (163)

Br g No Risk At All (FR) - Oxyna (FR) 11-2

J Mark Walsh E Tongue Strap

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mr Andre - Marcel Pommerai

7 LULAMBA

(FR) (55)

B g Nirvana Du Berlais (FR) - Ejland (FR) 11-2

J Nico de Boinville

T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

O Mrs J Donnelly

B Thierry Cypres

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 1

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful 7f/1m performer on Flat for Richard Hannon and looked a good prospect for his new handler when ready winner of juvenile hurdle at Gowran Park last month. Has lots of potential so shouldn’t be underestimated.

15Feb Gow 16f Hdl soft 1 Kool One (SPA) 3l Jun24 Asc 8f Hcp gd-fm 27/29 Mickley (IRE) 20l May24 Hay 8f Hcp soft 4/12 Nellie Leylax (IRE) 7

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 1

TIMEFORM VIEW Won 3 of his 4 starts on the Flat in France and made a winning debut over hurdles for his new yard after 8 months oﬀ in 16-runner juvenile at Naas in January.Potentially a very useful recruit.Considered.

26Jan Naa 15f Hdl sf-hv 1 Holy See (IRE) 1

May24 Blb 9f Stk heavy 2 Sibayan (FR) 3l May24 Blb 9f Stk - 1 Bruant

TFRHHHHH BHA146 FORM 111 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful staying handicapper on the Flat for James Fanshawe. Has looked a ﬁne prospect over hurdles, totally dominant when going 3-3 in Triumph Hurdle Trial over C&D in January.A ﬂuent jumper and he’ll take plenty of stopping.

25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 1/10 Stencil 10l Nov24 Chl 16f Hdl good 1/10 Static (FR) 18l Oct24 Wcn 15f Hdl good 1/10 Hot Fuss (IRE) 4l

TFRHHHII BHA134

FORM 11 D

TIMEFORMVIEWFairlyusefulFlatwinnerforAndrewOliverinIrelandand he has looked a smart prospect when bagging maiden hurdle at Sedgeﬁeld andjuvenileatHaydockforhisnewhandler Free-goingsortcandobetterstill. Possibilities

15Feb Hay 15f Hdl gd-sf 1/5 Give It To Me Oj 6l

26Jan Seg 16f Hdl soft 1/9 Surrey Belle

Oct24 Leo 10f Hcp heavy 2 Master Dunraven (IRE)

TFRHHHHI BHA145

FORM 11

TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken extremely well to hurdling, landing Leopardstown Grade 2 on his debut before following up there (hooded) in Spring Juvenile Hurdle by 3/4 length from Galileo Dame. This useful Flat winner has more to oﬀer and is well in the mix.

1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 1/8 Galileo Dame (IRE) 3/

l Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 1/10 Lady Vega Allen (FR) s.h

Oct24 Ros 10f Stk soft 1 Cheeky Wink (IRE) 3l

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 2

TIMEFORMVIEW3/1andtonguetied,madeahighlypromisingstartwhen ashort-headsecondof17innewcomershurdleatAuteuilinOctober Thisson of No Risk At All has since joined top connections and rates an interesting prospect.

Oct24 Aut 18f Hdl - 2 Live Conti (FR) s.h

S Unibet TFRHHHHI BHA140 FORM 11

TIMEFORM VIEW Looked a ﬁne prospect when a debut scorer at Auteuil and again for his new connections when impressively landing Ascot juvenile in January.A major player with promise of lots more to come.

18Jan Asc 15f Hdl good 1/7 Mondo Man 31/2l Oct24 Aut 18f Hdl - 1 Lugoville (FR) 5l

8 MARCHE D’ALIGRE (FR) (27)

B g Seahenge (USA) - Simplon 11-2

J Gavin Sheehan

T Jamie Snowden, Lambourn

O Billam Roe Swindell Wilson & the Molds

B Ecurie X S BetVictor

9 MONDO MAN (GB) (20)

Ch g Mondialiste (IRE) - Moghrama (IRE) 11-2

J Brian Hughes E Hood

T Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

O John and Yvonne Stone

B Elwick Stud

S KM Elite Products Ltd

10 PAPPANO (GB) (161)

B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Mary Anne Evans 11-2

J Sean Flanagan

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O H. O. S. Syndicate

B Rachel D S Hood

11 PONIROS (GB) (167)

B g Golden Horn - Rue Renan (IRE) 11-2

J Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Tony Bloom

B Wilgerbosdrift (UK) Ltd

12 TOO BOSSY FOR US (IRE) (188)

B g Golden Horn - Above The Clouds (FR) 11-2

J Harry Cobden

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O H. O. S. Syndicate

B Dayton Investments (Breeding) Limited

13 WILLY DE HOUELLE (FR) (41)

Gr g Beaumec de Houelle (FR) - Belle Attitude (FR) 11-2

J Brian Hayes E Hood, Tongue Strap

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs S. Ricci

B Mr Franck Leblanc

14 LADY VEGA ALLEN (FR) (41)

B f Saint des Saints (FR) - Sivega (FR) 10-9

J P. Townend

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr Michael Hilary Burke

B Mr Bruno Vagne & Mr Pierre Rives

15 LUMIERE DU LARGE (FR) (93)

B f Great Pretender (IRE) - Dissidente (FR) 10-9

J Kevin Sexton E Tongue Strap

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Gigginstown House Stud

B Pascal Noue

16 OPEC (GB) (20)

B f Sea The Moon (GER) - Wemyss Bay 10-9

J Sean Bowen

T James Owen, Newmarket

O The Gredley Family

B Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd

S Unex Group

TFRHHHII BHA121 FORM 124

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat winner in France and struck at the ﬁrst time of asking over hurdles in 2m Wetherby juvenile in November Pitched into a Grade 2 and ran a cracker when second at Chepstow a month later but well beaten at Haydock since.More needed.

15Feb Hay 15f Hdl gd-sf 4/5 Gibbs Island 23l

Dec24 Chp 16f Hdl soft 2/9 Nietzsche Has (FR) 8l

Nov24 Wet 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/6 Mix de Gris (FR) 13l

TFRHHHII BHA124 FORM 23 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart on the Flat in France (ﬁfth in the Prix du Jockey Club) and picked up for €520,000 in October Shaped very well when runner-up to Lulamba on hurdles debut at Ascot before an excellent third of 5 in Adonis at Kempton.Has more to oﬀer Enters calculations

22Feb Kmp 16f Hdl gd-sf 3/5 Mambonumberﬁve (FR)

18Jan Asc 15f Hdl good 2/7 Lulamba (FR)

Jul24 Lon 12f Stk soft 7/8 Sosie (IRE)

TFRHHHII BHAFORM

TIMEFORM VIEW A useful 14f Flat scorer who signed oﬀ for John & Thady Gosden with a very good third in Listed race at Ascot in October This is a tough introduction but he brings lots of potential to this sphere for his top yard

Oct24 Asc 14f Stk soft 3/5 Subsequent (IRE) 51/4l Sep24 Swl 14f Hcp stand 1/7 Story Horse nk Jul24 Hay 14f Hcp good 5/13 Align The Stars (IRE) 6l

TFRHHHII BHAFORM

TIMEFORM VIEW A useful handicapper on Flat (stays 1 1/2m) for Ralph Beckett this summer Changed hands for 200,000 gns in October and he brings a lot of potential to this sphere.No forlorn hope for top connections

Sep24 Nkt 9f Hcp soft 22/31 Liberty Lane (IRE) 11l

Sep24 Asc 11f Hcp soft 3/9 The Reverend 4l Jul24 Nkt 12f Hcp good 8/11 Lord of Love 12l

TFRHHHII BHAFORM

TIMEFORM VIEW A useful 10f scorer on Flat (stays 1 3/4m) this summer for Kevin Philippart de Foy. Changed hands for 330,000 gns in the autumn and he’s another newcomer for top yard that can’t be discounted now going hurdling.

Sep24 Hay 14f Hcp good 4/10 Master Builder 3l

Aug24 Yrk 13f Hcp gd-fm 8/16 Tabletalk (IRE) 9

Jul24 Hay 14f Hcp good 2/13 Align The Stars (IRE) 1

TFRHHHII BHA140

FORM 12-264

TIMEFORMVIEWAveryusefulwinninghurdlerinFrancebutyettokickon for his current yard, despite posting a solid fourth to Hello Neighbour in Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown last time.No forlorn hope.

1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 4/8 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 41/2l Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 6/10 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 11l

Dec24 Fai 16f Hdl yield 2/6 Naturally Nimble (GER) 11/2

TFRHHHHI BHA136 FORM 123 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Debut hurdle winner in France and has shown very useful form for her new yard when twice placed,beaten 1 1/2 lengths by Hello NeighbourinSpringJuvenileHurdleatLeopardstown(16f)onlatteroccasion. One of 11 for her trainer and not taken lightly with Paul Townend up

1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 3/8 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 1

Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 2/10 Hello Neighbour (IRE) s.h Sep24 Mou 17f Hdl - 1 Lascaris (FR) hd

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 2

TIMEFORM VIEW Made a winning debut in 13f minor event on Flat in October before posting a useful eﬀort on her hurdling bow when second in newcomers race at Pau (17f) in December Not without interest on her debut for top yard

Dec24 Pau 17f Hdl - 2 Yeiazel (FR) 1

Oct24 Les 13f Stk - 1 Look At Me Now (FR) 2

TFRHHHII BHA125 FORM F11105

TIMEFORM VIEW Has left her Flat form behind since switched to hurdles, winning ﬁrst 3 completed starts in this sphere, including a ﬁllies’Listed race at Newbury in November Well-beaten last of 5 in Adonis Juvenile Hurdle at Kempton last time though so needs to bounce back.

22Feb Kmp 16f Hdl gd-sf 5/5 Mambonumberﬁve (FR) 49l

Dec24 Chp 16f Hdl soft 7/9 Nietzsche Has (FR) 23l Nov24 Nby 16f Hdl soft 1/10 Prairie Angel (IRE) 8l

17

PLACE DE LA NATION (FR) (37)

B f Masked Marvel - Liberalis (FR) 10-9

J Jack Kennedy

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Gigginstown House Stud

B S.A.S. Ecurie X & Mr Yannick Fouin

18 SAINTE LUCIE (FR) (41)

B f Great Pretender (IRE) - Sainte Folie (FR) 10-9

J Danny Mullins E Hood

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs S. Ricci

B Terrains D’Avilly St Leonard et al

DECLARED RUNNERS 18

TFRHHHII BHA118 FORM 32

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful form shown when placed over hurdles at Auteuil in September and Fairyhouse nearly 5 months later Can do better still but she needs to in this company

5Feb Fai 16f Hdl heavy 2

Sep24 Aut 18f Hdl -

TFRHHHII BHA131

FORM 3-10 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW French recruit made a highly impressive winning debut in Punchestown juvenile in December but she came in last of 8 to Hello Neighbour in Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown (16f) since. She’s well worth another chance.

1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 8/8 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 42l Dec24 Pun 16f Hdl yd-sf 1 Luker’s Tipple (IRE) 11l Apr24 Aut 15f Hdl - 3 Nee En Bleue (FR) 5

2024: MAJBOROUGH (FR) 4 11 2 Mark Walsh 6-1 (W P Mullins) 12 ran

Running for the ﬁrst time since Gelding No. 12. Stewards Note: MONDO MAN: Following its run on 22/2/2025 it was reported that the horse was unsuited by the going.

Probable S.P’s: 2-1 East India Dock (GB), 10-3 Lulamba (FR), 5-1 Hello Neighbour (IRE), 14-1 Lady Vega Allen (FR), 20-1 Gibbs Island (GB), 28-1 Sainte Lucie (FR), 40-1 Larzac (FR), Mondo Man (GB), Willy de Houelle (FR), 50-1 Charlus (IRE), Place de La Nation (FR), 66-1 Blue Lemons (IRE), Pappano (GB), Too Bossy For Us (IRE), Lumiere du Large (FR), 150-1 Marche d’Aligre (FR), Poniros (GB), 300-1 Opec (GB)

PLAY SMARTER

James Owen continues on the rise in the training ranks and his likeable front-runner EAST INDIA DOCK can showcase his undoubted talents further by gaining his biggest prize yet and extending his unbeaten run to four Nicky Henderson has an excellent record in this and his unexposed French recruit Lulamba could emerge as the biggest danger Although Irish-challengers Hello Neighbour and Lady Vega Allen both bring very solid form to the table and can also have a say in a fascinating Triumph.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.EAST INDIA DOCK 2.LULAMBA (FR) 3.HELLO NEIGHBOUR (IRE)

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LEADING CONNECTIONS

Leading Jockey

The Jockey with the most wins over the four days will receive the Leading Rider Perpetual Trophy on Friday

Leading Owner

The Owner with the most wins over the four days will be presented with a perpetual trophy on Friday.

Leading Trainer

The Trainer with the most wins over the four days will be presented with a perpetual trophy on Friday.

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Top Price Guarantee available on: Triumph Hurdle (1:20pm)

William Hill County Hurdle (2pm) Gold Cup (4pm)

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RACE TWO

THE WILLIAM HILL COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE (PREMIER HANDICAP)

RACE DESCRIPTION

The William Hill County Hurdle, a two mile and 179-yard handicap hurdle for five-year-olds and upwards, is one of the most fiercely contested races of the entire Festival. The aim of a handicap is to ensure a level playing field for all and this is achieved by allocating different weights to each of the runners based on what they have achieved on the racecourse so far - see how the 152 rated Daddy Long Legs carries 6lb more than the 146 rated Absurde.

2023 Ebor winner Absurde had run creditably when seventh in the Melbourne Cup but had previously failed to replicate that form over hurdles until he took this 12 months ago He was the only handicap ride of Paul Townend all week, which was a tip in itself but few could have predicted the way he would win such a competitive looking renewal. L’eau Du Sud was well backed after winning the Betfair Hurdle but couldn’t cope with the superior turn of foot

Run over two miles, 179 yards. 8 hurdles to be jumped Total prize fund of £110,000 £61,897 to the winner

Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years TRAINER

Dan Skelton 4 winners Today Dan saddles Valgrand

JOCKEY

Harry Skelton 2 winners Today Harry rides Valgrand

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Breeder B

Sponsor S

Equipment

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%) runs ABSURDE, DADDY LONG LEGS, ETHICAL DIAMOND & KARGESE

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%) runs ABSURDE, DADDY LONG LEGS, ETHICAL DIAMOND & KARGESE

1 DADDY LONG LEGS (FR) (40)

Ch g Almanzor (FR) - Private Eye (FR) 6

J Sean O’Keeﬀe

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs J. Donnelly

B Mme Hilary Erculiani

2 ABSURDE (FR) (129)

B g Fastnet Rock (AUS) - Incroyable (USA) 7 11-8

J Danny Mullins

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O H. O. S. Syndicate

B Wertheimer et Frere

3 FILS D’OUDAIRIES (FR) (40)

B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Pythie d’Oudairies (FR) 10 11-7

J Sam Ewing

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Mr David L’Estrange

B CTE Michel De Gigou

S Bective Stud, Gordon Elliott

4 ETHICAL DIAMOND (IRE) (39)

B g Awtaad (IRE) - Pearl Diamond (GER) 5 11-5

J Mr P. W. Mullins E Hood

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O H. O. S. Syndicate

B Mr W. J. Kennedy

5 PINOT GRIS (IRE) (77)

Gr g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Zamira (IRE) 5 11-5

J Keith Donoghue E Blinkers, Tongue Strap

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Mr Basil Holian

B John Malone

6 HANSARD (IRE) (27)

B g The Gurkha (IRE) - Quiet Down (USA) 7 11-4

J Niall Houlihan E Cheek Pieces

T Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

O Noel Fehily Racing Syndicates Hansard

B Lynchbages Edgeridge Ltd & Glenvale Stud

S Olive Print & Graphics

7 KARGESE

(FR) (55)

B m Jeu St Eloi (FR) - Rive Gauche (FR) 5 11-3

J P. Townend E Hood

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr K. Alexander

B Thierry Cypres

TIMEFORM VIEW Handicap hurdle winner at the Punchestown Festival last season and bagged a Grade 3 hurdle at Tipperary (16.2f) in October Has fallen short in Grade 1 company on his last couple of outings, ﬂattered when chasing home State Man at Leopardstown last month.Tough ask oﬀ top weight.

2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 2/5 State

TFRHHHHI BHA146 FORM 16P41- CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Very useful in both codes,enjoyed a stellar 2024 winning this corresponding race (heavy) under an ice-cool ride before a productive spell on the Flat, culminating in an excellent ﬁfth in the Melbourne Cup Has been targeted at this race again and he’s a major player on even more favourable ground.

Nov24 Fle 16f Stk good 5/23 Knight’s Choice (AUS)

Aug24 Chs 14f Stk good 1/7 Caius Chorister (FR)

Aug24 Cur 14f Stk good 4/5 Grosvenor Square (IRE) 31l

TFRHHIII BHA145

FORM 34-4P44 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Grade 3 hurdle winner in October 2023 but hasn’t been inthatkindofformthisseason,albeitmixingitinGrade1company,wellheld behind State Man at Leopardstown last month. He doesn’t look obviously well-handicapped and appears to be the stable second string.

2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 4/5 State Man (FR) 28l

25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 4/5 Constitution Hill 81/4l 11Jan Fai 17f HcpC soft P/12 The King of Prs (IRE) -

TFRHHHII BHA143

FORM 060-01

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful winner on the Flat (placed in the Duke of Edinburgh handicap at Royal Ascot) and is proving equally as good in this code,putting up a no-nonsense display to break his hurdles duck last month. Remains unexposed in this sphere and one to consider

3Feb Pun 16f Hdl heavy 1 Kainsbourg (FR) 10l

Dec24 Leo 16f HcpH yield 15 Enniskerry (IRE) 42l Jun24 Asc 11f Hcp gd-fm 4/19 Crystal Black (IRE) 21/2l

TFRHHHII BHA143

FORM 431-212 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on the Flat and has proved progressive over hurdles, notably since the addition of blinkers (retained).Runner-up on only second start in a handicap (Leopardstown, 2m), having been ridden aggressively from the front. He’s in very good hands and there could well be more improvement to come.

Dec24 Leo 16f HcpH yield 2 Enniskerry (IRE) nk

Nov24 Naa 16f Hdl gd-yd 1 Palamon (IRE) 3l

Oct24 Naa 16f Hcp yield 13 Comfort Zone (IRE) 14l

TFRHHHII BHA142

FORM 215-403

TIMEFORM VIEW 2023 Gerry Feilden winner shaped well on reappearance at Kempton,butdisappointedinavaluableWindsorhandicapnexttime.Notdisgraced when third of 4 in the Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle (15.2f) last month and will be much better suited by this test.Makes each-way appeal in ﬁrst-time cheekpieces

15Feb Wcn 15f Hdl

TFRHHHHH BHA141

FORM 2122-12 D BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Strong-travelling mare was runner-up in 2024 Triumph prior to chasing home Sir Gino at Aintree before securing further Grade 1 success in Champion Juvenile at Punchestown.Showed plenty on reappearance at Ascot and is likely to improve with a big-ﬁeld handicap expected to bring out the best in her 18Jan Asc 15f

8 NDAAWI (GB) (153)

B g Cracksman - Mount Elbrus 5 11-2

J Jack Kennedy

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Easyﬁx

B Rabbah Bloodstock Limited

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

9 CRACKING RHAPSODY (IRE) (13) (in 5lb ex)

B g Sans Frontieres (IRE) - Cracking Gale (IRE) 6 10-13

J Craig Nichol

T Ewan Whillans, Hawick

O Mr J D Wright & Mrs S Wright

B Mr Jay Leahy

S Sport Of Kings Classic Racewear

10 MCLAUREY (IRE) (40)

B g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Soeur Dee (IRE) 6 10-12

J Mark Walsh

T Emmet Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Victor Connolly

11 OUR CHAMP (IRE) (34)

B g Champs Elysees - Affascinare (IRE) 7 10-11

J Freddie Gordon (3) E Tongue Strap

T Chris Gordon, Winchester

O Pearson,Jenner,Hawkings,Dunford&Harding

B Fethard Bloodstock

S Goodwin Racing Ltd, Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

12 VALGRAND (FR) (77)

B g Bathyrhon (GER) - Valaway (FR) 6 10-10

J Harry Skelton

T Dan Skelton, Alcester

O HIghclere Thoroughbred Racing - Grand

B P. Rouxel, H. Bellentani & G. Mousnier

S Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Ltd

13 LARK IN THE MORNIN (GER) (77)

B g Soldier Hollow - Loyalty (GER) 5 10-8

J J. J. Slevin

T Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland

O Sean & Bernardine Mulryan

B Gestut Hof Ittlingen

S Mr O’Brien

14 IRISH PANTHER (GB) (40)

B g Lucarno (USA) - Tyrana (GER) 8 10-4

J Cian Cullinan (7) E Hood, Tongue Strap

T Eddie & Patrick Harty, Ireland

O Jennifer Coyle/Brian P Whelan

B Harris & Ford Ltd

15 SPIRIT D’AUNOU

(FR) (49)

B g Triple Threat (FR) - Miss Wind (FR) 6 10-3

J Freddie Mitchell (5) E Cheek Pieces

T Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham

O Heart of the South Racing 130

B S.C.E.A. Du Moulin de Bel Oeuvre

S Heart Of The South Bloodstock

16 NORMAN FLETCHER (GB) (41)

Ch g No Risk At All (FR) - Hiho Silver Lining 6 10-3

J Sam Twiston-Davies

T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham

O Mr M. Stavrou

B Tim Lane

S Courtiers Investment Services Limited

TFRHHHII BHA140

FORM 53136-2

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful Flat performer who goes well in big ﬁelds in this sphere,third in last year’s Boodles and most recent eﬀort over hurdles was a very creditable second in a Grade 3 at the Galway Festival.Each-way claims if back to his best.

Oct24 Nkt 18f Hcp soft 24/24 Alphonse Le Grande (IRE) 133l Aug24 Gal 16f HcpH good 2/19 Nurburgring (IRE) 7l

Jun24 Asc 19f Hcp gd-fm 7/20 Pledgeofallegiance (IRE) 11l

TFRHHHII BHA132 (+5)

FORM 3-40101

TIMEFORMVIEWImprovingsortenhancedhisKelsorecordto4winsfrom 5 visits when digging in to defend his Morebattle crown from a 13lb higher mark earlier this month. Has a ﬁne attitude but more on his plate under a penalty here.

1Mar Kel 16f HcpH gd-sf 1/18 Alnilam (FR)

17Jan Wdr 16f HcpH soft 10/14 Secret Squirrel

Dec24 Kel 16f HcpH soft 1/9 Old Gregorian 4l

TFRHHHHI BHA136

FORM 10-2311

TIMEFORM VIEW Followed up his December maiden success in impressive fashion,landing a2m Listed handicap hurdle at Leopardstown last month,justifying strong support and looking value for more than the winning margin in the process Appeals as the type to go on improving and merits serious consideration.

2Feb Leo 16f HcpH soft 1/18 Storm Heart (FR) 1l Dec24 Lim 16f Hdl yd-sf 1 En Or (FR) 41/4l Dec24 Pun 19f Hdl gd-yd 3 James’s

TFRHHIII BHA135

FORM 3-61350 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Back to his best to win 2m Ascot handicap in November before very creditable third in the Gerry Feilden later that month.Not in the same form on two subsequent starts and this looks a tough ask stepping into a better race oﬀ a career-high mark.Tongue tie back on.

8Feb Nby 16f HcpH soft 8/17 Joyeuse (FR) 17l

Dec24 Asc 15f HcpH gd-sf 5/12 Fiercely Proud (IRE) 26l

Nov24 Nby 16f HcpH gd-sf 3/13 Navajo Indy 5l

TFRHHHHI BHA134

FORM 111200 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Emphatic winner of Grade 2 hurdle at Cheltenham’s October meeting, putting on a ﬁne display of jumping under a front-running ride while also clocking an impressive timeﬁgure.Hasn’t been able to match that form in 3 runs since butthiswillhavebeenhislong-termtarget.Boldshowinganticipated.

Dec24 Kmp 16f HcpH gd-sf 7/8 Ooh Betty (IRE) 28l

Dec24 Chl 16f HcpH gd-sf 10/14 Mirabad (FR) 19l

Nov24 Chl 21f Hdl good 2/5 Potters Charm (IRE) 11l

TFRHHHHI BHA132

FORM 2631-50 C BF

TIMEFORMVIEWTravelledpowerfullywhenadecisivewinneroflastyear’s Boodlesbutnotseentobesteffectonfinalrunoflastseasonwhenfifthinthe Swintonfacedwithmuchquickerconditions ReappearanceatLeopardstown gave the impression he’ll be spot on again for this meeting.Big chance.

Dec24 Leo 16f HcpH yield 7 Enniskerry (IRE) 91/2l

May24 Hay 15f HcpH good 5/17 Pickanumber (IRE) 16l

Mar24 Chl 16f HcpH heavy 1/22 Eagles Reign (IRE) 2l

TFRHHHII BHA128

FORM 23-2033

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly-raced for his age and has made an encouraging start for new connections, placing on stable debut at Leopardstown (2m) before a very creditable third (wore ﬁrst-time hood) behind McLaurey over the same C&D last month.Tongue tie added and patiently-ridden type could well run into a place.

2Feb Leo 16f HcpH soft 3/18 McLaurey (IRE) 1l

Dec24 Leo 16f HcpH yield 3 Shraheen (IRE) 51/2l Sep24 Lis 18f Hdl soft 8 Stormbreaker 59l

TFRHHIII BHA127

FORM 05-F643

TIMEFORM VIEW Landed a 2m Sandown handicap (off 1lb lower) on heavy ground last season and finished his campaign with a creditable fifth of 19 at Aintree (2m4f),seeing out the extra distance well.Has shown he retains plenty of ability this season but dropping back in distance,he may find this test too sharp

24Jan San 19f HcpH soft 3/7 Loverdose (FR) 26l Dec24 Nby 20f HcpH gd-sf 4/11 Jipcot (FR) 11l Dec24 San 15f HcpH heavy 6/6 Knickerbockerglory (IRE) 22l

TFRHHIII BHA127

FORM 0-213P0 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful novice hurdler has proved an even better handicapper,resumingwinningwaysatHuntingdoninNovemberandlosinglittle in defeat when third at Doncaster (16.6f) a month later Seemingly tapped for toe in a weaker race at Musselburgh (15.6f) last time.Tough ask stepping up in class 1Feb Mus 15f HcpH gd-sf 9/12 Welsh Charger (IRE) 73/

l 1Jan Swl 15f HcpH soft P/8 Alnilam (FR)Dec24 Don 16f HcpH gd-sf 3/8 Jungle Jack

DECLARED RUNNERS 16

2024: ABSURDE (FR) 6 10 10 P Townend 12-1 (W P Mullins) 17 ran

Stewards Note: NDAAWI: Following its run on 12/10/2024 it was reported that the horse did not stay the trip VALGRAND: Following its run on 27/12/2024 it was reported that the horse was never travelling.

Probable S.P’s: 3-1 Kargese (FR), 13-2 Absurde (FR), 7-1 McLaurey (IRE), Lark In The Mornin (GER), 8-1 Valgrand (FR), 14-1 Ethical Diamond (IRE), 25-1 Hansard (IRE), Irish Panther (GB), 28-1 Pinot Gris (IRE), Ndaawi (GB), 40-1 Daddy Long Legs (FR), Cracking Rhapsody (IRE), 66-1 Fils d’Oudairies (FR), Our Champ (IRE), Spirit d’Aunou (FR), Norman Fletcher (GB)

This could be run to suit the strong-travelling KARGESE who would beneﬁt from a similarly ice-cool ride as Absurde was given when landing this race 12 months ago It’s a vote of conﬁdence that Paul Townend switches allegiances and she can give Willie Mullins an unprecedented eighth County Hurdle. 2024 Boodles winner Lark In The Morning looks primed to run another huge race at the Festival, while Valgrand may fare best of the home team.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.KARGESE (FR) 2.LARK IN THE MORNIN (GER) 3.VALGRAND (FR)

RA out y’ S

RACESPONSOR

ﬁnd more about s race sponsor at williamhill.com

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Gerry McKenna’s 61st Cheltenham Festival

Friday 14th March 2025

Dear Dad,

Who would have known in March 1962 when you attended your ﬁrst Cheltenham Festival, you would still be coming all these years later? You have shared many happy moments at this special place, creating memories with friends, family, and colleagues. I’m so pleased to be able to mark this milestone with you and here’s to many more happy times together.

Love you, Hannah

One of the wonderful things about the Cheltenham Festival is the familiarity of the ritual. But for many of us this year, things are not the same and never quite will be again following the tragic death of Joe Saumarez Smith last month.

Joe adored this place and this Festival. The many tributes paid to Joe spoke of the importance to him of his yearly pilgrimage here, staying in the same farmhouse every time, inviting friends to enjoy his famous dinners and to revel in all the joy these unique four days bring.

That was Joe all over. He loved racing and he loved people. Enjoying the very best our sport has to offer, in the company of those he was most fond, lifted his spirits quite unlike anything else.

Such was his enduring passion for the Cheltenham Festival, it was not far from his thoughts even as his health deteriorated earlier this year. Last week, the BHA’s Acting CEO Brant Dunshea shared a most poignant story of Joe speaking from his hospital bed of his great frustration that he would most likely not be able to attend this year’s Festival, barely a week before his death.

It is a story that sums up Joe’s remarkable commitment to British racing. To the very end, he was to be found working on ways to take the sport forward, domestically and internationally. Among the many tragic elements of his untimely death is his loss to the sport – he had done so much yet had so much more to offer. He will be hugely missed.

His loss is most keenly felt, of course, by his wife Wanda, their children and all of his friends and family. They are in our thoughts today and we hope that they draw comfort from the tremendous outpouring of tributes that have followed his death.

Joe’s dedication to racing, and his incredible courage in the face of illness, will continue to inspire all who knew and worked with him and we are proud to honour his legacy on a day he held so dearly.

RACE THREE

THE

MRS

PADDY POWER MARES’ STEEPLE CHASE

(Registered as The Liberthine Mares’ Chase)

RACE DESCRIPTION

The Grade 2 Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase is a fairly new addition to The Festival, providing an excellent opportunity for high-class racing mares under National Hunt rules and perhaps creating a springboard for a potential Gold Cup winner like the great Dawn Run. Run over two miles, four and a half furlongs, those running in the race will have to carry 11st 2lb, with penalties assessed on the class of race they have won over the past 18 months - 3lb for the winner of a Grade 2 chase and 5lb for the winner of a Grade 1. See how Brides Hill carries 11st 5lb after taking a Grade 2 chase at Punchestown last May.

All 4 winners won last time out

All 4 winners were aged 7 or 8

All 4 winners had run 3 timers earlier that season

LIMERICK LACE

Limerick Lace continued her improvement, relishing the underfoot conditions to kick clear of Dinoblue, giving JP McManus the ﬁrst two places on the podium. She’d travelled well throughout the contest and took the race up after jumping the third from home Dinoblue was sent off in pursuit by Mark Walsh but ultimately had too much to do They got to within a length of Gavin Cromwells mare but couldn’t get past her before the winning post

GRADE 2

Run over two miles, four furlongs & 127 yards. 17 fences to be jumped Total prize fund of £130,000 £73,151 to the winner

WINNING CONNECTIONS

TRAINER

Willie Mullins has won two out of four renewals and today saddles Dinoblue & Allegorie de Vassy

for ﬁve yrs old and upwards mares ™ Total prize fund £130000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £55952, 2nd £23062, 3rd £11531, 4th £5772, 5th £2886, 6th £1443, 7th £715, 8th £364. (Penalty Value £73151)

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Breeder B

Sponsor S

Equipment E

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%) runs DINOBLUE & ALLEGORIE DE VASSY

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%) runs DINOBLUE & ALLEGORIE DE VASSY

Fancy That: W P Mullins won this race in 2021 and 2022. The stable runs DINOBLUE & ALLEGORIE DE VASSY today.

1 DINOBLUE (FR) (34)

Ch m Doctor Dino (FR) - Blue Aster (FR) 8 11-7

J Mark Walsh E Tongue Strap

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B M.L. Bloodstock Ltd

2 BRIDES HILL (IRE) (36)

B m Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Wedding Cake (IRE) 8 11-5

J Keith Donoghue

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Brides Hill Syndicate

B Grange Stud

3 LIMERICK LACE (IRE) (72)

B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Sway (FR) 8 11-5

J Jack Kennedy E Cheek Pieces

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mrs Noreen McManus

4 ALLEGORIE DE VASSY (FR) (34)

B m No Risk At All (FR) - Autignac (FR) 8 11-2

J P. Townend

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs S. Ricci

E Tongue Strap

B N. Ferrand, A. Brakha & J. M. Porzier

5 FONTAINE COLLONGES (FR) (27)

B m Saddler Maker (IRE) - Saturne Collonges (FR) 10 11-2

J Charlie Deutsch E Blinkers

T Venetia Williams, Hereford

O Mr P. Davies

B G.A.E.C. Delorme Freres

S Faucets Limited

6 JE T’AI PORTE (IRE) (173)

B m Footstepsinthesand - Hasanza (USA) 7 11-2

J Shane Fitzgerald E Hood

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Poetry In Motion Syndicate

B John O’Dwyer

7 MAYHEM MYA (GB) (33)

B m Authorized (IRE) - Thedeboftheyear 8 11-2

J Bryan Carver

T Chris Honour, Ashburton

O Mr G. Thompson

B G. D. Thompson

S Cotswold Stone Supplies

TFRHHHHH BHA157

FORM 22-3241

TIMEFORMVIEWVerysmartchaserwhoshapedbestwhenrunner-uptoLimerick Lace in this last year (conceded ﬁrst run).Has been mixing it with Grade 1 two milers this season before resuming winning ways back down in class in Listed mares race at Naaslastmonth.The oneto beatdespiteaGrade1penalty.

8Feb Naa 16f Ch soft 1/3 Allegorie de Vassy (FR) nk Dec24 Leo 17f Ch gd-yd 4/9 Solness (FR) 18l Dec24 Crk 16f Ch yield 2/8 Energumene (FR) 10l

TFRHHHII BHA153

FORM 111-132 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart chaser who completed 4-timer with another careerbestinGrade2atPunchestowninMay.Excusesbothstartsthisseason and no surprise if she put up a good show

6Feb Hun 19f Ch gd-sf 2/4 Telepathique

Dec24 Don 20f Ch gd-sf 3/4 La Renommee (FR) 6

May24 Pun 20f Ch yield 1/7 Instit (FR) 21l

TFRHHHII BHA151

FORM 2110-52 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Had an excellent campaign last season, winning 3 times, notably when getting ﬁrst run on Dinoblue in this However,well below par both startsthisterm,hintingattemperamentwhenremotesecondtoAllegoriedeVassy in Grade 3 at Fairyhouse 10 weeks ago Bit to prove now with headgear applied.

1Jan Fai 21f Ch yd-sf 2/5 Allegorie de Vassy (FR) 25l

Nov24 Hay 25f Ch soft 5/7 Royale Pagaille (FR) 76l

Apr24 Ain 34f HcpC soft 10/32 I Am Maximus (FR) 29l

TFRHHHHI BHA151

FORM 14-4412 D BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Failed to meet expectations in this last year but back to best withfront-runningtacticsreadoptedwhenwinningGrade3atFairyhouse.Emerged with plenty of credit when edged out by Dinoblue in Listed chase at Naas since. 1lb worse oﬀ with winner here but this longer trip more suitable.

8Feb Naa 16f Ch soft 2/3 Dinoblue (FR) nk

1Jan Fai 21f Ch yd-sf 1/5 Limerick Lace (IRE) 25l

Nov24 Clo 20f Ch good 4/7 Pink In The Park (IRE) 10l

TFRHHIII BHA145

FORM U10-1PP

TIMEFORM VIEW Recorded a smart handicap performance when easy winner at Haydock (25.5f, heavy) in November However, has an all-ornothing proﬁle and ran poorly in high-end marathon events since. Plenty to prove dropped markedly in trip with headgear applied.

15Feb Hay 28f HcpC gd-sf P/9 Famous Bridge (IRE)Dec24 Chp 30f HcpC soft P/15 Val Dancer (IRE)Nov24 Hay 25f HcpC soft 1/9 Monbeg Genius (IRE) 12l

TFRHIIII BHA135 FORM 10202F

TIMEFORM VIEW Enthusiastic front runner who is a much better chaser than hurdler However, not seen since falling at Listowel in September and this is a tough ask even if at her best.

Sep24 Lis 17f HcpC good F Solness (FR)Aug24 Bal 17f Ch soft 2 Dancing On My Own (IRE) 13/4l Aug24 Kny 17f HcpH gd-yd 7 Miss Fourie (IRE) 21l

TFRHIIII BHA123 FORM 4PU126

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful chaser who arrives in form but is out of her depth at this level. 9Feb

8 ROYALE MARGAUX (FR) (34)

Ch m Doctor Dino (FR) - Royale Cazoumaille (FR) 7 11-2

J Ben Poste E Tongue Strap

T Tom Symonds, Hentland

O DahlBury Racing

B S.C.E.A. Ecurie Sagara

S Gun Dog Gin Ltd

9 SHECOULDBEANYTHING (IRE) (77)

B m Malinas (GER) - Culmore Girl (IRE) 8 11-2

J Sam Ewing E Tongue Strap

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Mr M. J. Hanrahan

B Damien Duncan

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

TFRHIIII BHA126 FORM 402431 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Proliﬁc in France but took 15 goes to get oﬀ the mark for this yard when surprise winner of Listed hurdle at Warwick last month. Chucked into the deep end back over fences now and easy to oppose.

8Feb War 21f Hdl soft 1/6 Sunday Soldier (IRE) 4l Dec24 Kmp 24f HcpH gd-sf 3/8 Della Casa Lunga (IRE) 2

Dec24 Chl 20f HcpH gd-sf 4/12 Wodhooh (FR) 4l

TFRHHIII BHA140 FORM 111153

TIMEFORM VIEW Taken well to fences this season, completing 4-timer in ListedeventatBangorinNovember Notdisgraceduppedinclassbothstarts since but has a bit to ﬁnd with the principals here.

Dec24 Lim 22f Ch yd-sf 3/7 Bioluminescence (IRE) 9l Dec24 Fai 20f Ch yield 5/5 Croke Park (IRE) 4

Nov24 Bgr 17f Ch soft 1/6 You Wear It Well 1

DECLARED

Probable S.P’s: 11-10 Dinoblue (FR), 4-1 Allegorie de Vassy (FR), 7-1 Limerick Lace (IRE), 15-2 Brides Hill (IRE), 20-1 Shecouldbeanything (IRE), 40-1 Fontaine Collonges (FR), 80-1 Je T’Ai Porte (IRE), Royale Margaux (FR), 200-1 Mayhem Mya (GB)

DINOBLUE would likely have deﬁed her Grade 1 penalty in this last year had she not conceded ﬁrst run to Limerick Lace and she’s fancied to make amends having looked as good as ever this season. Allegorie de Vassy pushed her stablemate close at Naas 5 weeks ago so rates the main threat, while Brides Hill looks the pick of Gavin Cromwell’s trio with last year’s winner Limerick Lace arriving on the back of a couple of lacklustre efforts.

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RACE FOUR

THE ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (REGISTERED

AS THE SPA NOVICES’ HURDLE)

RACE DESCRIPTION

The Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle is run over the stamina-sapping trip of three miles and this contest attracts the top staying hurdlers of the future. Horses are classed as a novice if they have yet to win a race prior to the ofﬁcial start of the season, usually towards the end of April. In theory, this allows the inexperienced horses to race against each other before graduating to the senior ranks. In this Grade 1 race, all runners will carry 11st 7lb apart from The Big Westerner, who has as mare receives a 7lb allowance and carries 11st.

KEY TRENDS

of the past 19 winners were aged 6 or 7 9 of the past 13 winners had won an Irish Point-to-Point

Horses rated 152+ are 3 from the last 5 renewals

LAST YEAR’S WINNER

Perhaps the ﬁnish of the Festival saw Stellar Story run down the Jukebox Man late, after an almost inch perfect ride by Ben Jones aboard the Ben Pauling six-year-old. The Jukebox Man looked to have it all wrapped up as they jumped the last, with Sam Ewing three lengths adrift but Stellar Story refused to give up and powered up the hill to just get his nose in front. Dancing City completed the placings for Willie Mullins back in third

GRADE 1

Run over two miles, seven furlongs & 213 yards. 12 hurdles to be jumped

Total prize fund of £150,000 £84,405 to the winner

WINNING CONNECTIONS STELLAR

Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years

TRAINER

Willie Mullins 3 winners

Today Willie saddles Argento Boy, Fishery Lane, Inn At The Park, Jasmin de Vaux, Port Joulain & Sounds Victorius

JOCKEY

Paul Townend 2 winners

Today Paul rides Jasmin de Vaux

for novice ﬁve yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £150000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £64560, 2nd £26610, 3rd £13305, 4th £6660, 5th £3330, 6th £1665, 7th £825, 8th £420. (Penalty Value £84405)

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Breeder B

Sponsor S

Equipment E

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%) runs ARGENTO BOY, FISHERY LANE, INN AT THE PARK, JASMIN DE VAUX, PORT JOULAIN & SOUNDS VICTORIUS

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%) runs ARGENTO BOY, FISHERY LANE, INN AT THE PARK, JASMIN DE VAUX, PORT JOULAIN & SOUNDS VICTORIUS

1 ARGENTO BOY (IRE) (39)

Gr g Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Backaway (IRE) 6 11-7

J Rachael Blackmore

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs Audrey Turley

B Victor Connolly

2 BALLYBOW (IRE) (29)

B g Flemensﬁrth (USA) - Avichi (IRE) 6 11-7

J Sam Ewing

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Gigginstown House Stud

B Drumlin Bloodstock

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

3 DERRYHASSEN PADDY (IRE) (56)

B g Arctic Cosmos (USA) - Kerrie Girl (IRE) 6 11-7

J Derek Fox E Tongue Strap

T Lucinda Russell, Kinross

O Morrison-Bell & Russell

B Patrick Sweeney

S Ian Macleod & Co Ltd

4 FIRST CONFESSION (IRE) (27)

B g Affinisea (IRE) - Lough Derg Lily (IRE) 6 11-7

J Brendan Powell

T Joe Tizzard, Sherborne

O Kevan Leggett, Susan & John Waterworth

B Edward Ryan

S Coral Racing Limited

5 FISHERY LANE (FR) (57)

Gr g Gemix (FR) - Vision Sainte (FR) 6 11-7

J Sean O’Keeﬀe

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Bryan Drew

B Mr Tim Dineen

6 FLICKER OF HOPE (FR) (41)

B or Br g Buck’s Boum (FR) - Ojinska Dream (FR) 6 11-7

J Keith Donoghue

T Mark Fahey, Ireland

O Swords Bloodstock Limited

B Mrs Marie Illegems & Mr Francois Buzon

7 INN AT THE PARK (IRE) (54)

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Glor Na Gaoithe (IRE) 7 11-7

J Danny Mullins

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr Malcolm C. Denmark

B Patrick J. O’Mahony

S Leaﬂet Company Ltd

TFRHHHII BHA137

FORM 10-62P1

TIMEFORM VIEW Debut bumper winner who was gaining his ﬁrst win since landing the odds in 23f Punchestown maiden hurdle last month. Needs to step forward to ﬁgure here though.

3Feb Pun 23f Hdl heavy 1 Flemensface (IRE) 15l Dec24 Leo 19f Hdl gd-yd P The Enabler (IRE)Nov24 Pun 21f Hdl soft 2 The Big Westerner (IRE) 1l

TFRHHHHI BHA137

FORM 2-10211 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Son of Flemensﬁrth has improved with each of his four runs in this sphere,bagging maiden at Naas (2m3f) and Grade 3 at Clonmel (3m) in 2025. Capable of better still so he’s one to consider with his stamina proven.

13Feb Clo 24f Hdl soft 1/3 Ballygunner Castle (IRE) 1

26Jan Naa 18f Hdl sf-hv 1 Kalix Delabarriere (FR) 9l Dec24 Dow 20f Hdl gd-yd 2 Air of Entitlement (IRE) 3

TFRHHHHI BHA134

FORM 11-11 D

TIMEFORMVIEWWonhissolestartinIrishpoints/bumpersandhaslooked a bright prospect in going 2-2 over hurdles at Uttoxeter and Windsor Battled well on latter occasion and is the sort to go on improving. Lively outsider

17Jan Wdr 24f Hdl soft 1/5 Honky Tonk Highway (IRE) nose Nov24 Utt 19f Hdl soft 1/7 Farland (IRE) 1

Feb24 Ayr 16f NHF heavy 1/6 Frisby (IRE) 7l

TFRHHHII BHA129

FORM 1-3101 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Points winner, came in last of 7 in the Challow Hurdle at Newbury but bounced back to make it 2-4 in this sphere in 2m3f Ascot novice hurdle last month. This step up in trip should suit but others possess better form.

15Feb Asc 19f Hdl good 1/4 Crest of Fortune 41/2l Dec24 Nby 20f Hdl gd-sf 7/7 The New Lion 68l Nov24 Asc 19f Hdl good 1/3 Oak Grove (IRE) 12l

TFRHHHII BHA129

FORM 25-031

TIMEFORMVIEWVeryusefulbumperperformerwhobuiltonhishurdling promise to land 20f Fairyhouse novice in January. This represents a big step up but he’s open to further progress

16Jan Fai 20f Hdl soft 1 Grimaud (FR)

Dec24 Fai 23f Hdl yield 3 Inn At The Park (IRE) 10l

May24 Pun 18f Stk soft 10/19 Don’tstopthemusic (IRE) 50l

TFRHHHII BHA134

FORM 110113 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Is enjoying a ﬁne season and garnered his fourth handicap success at Navan (25f) in December Took another step forward when third of 25 in 3m handicap at Leopardstown last time. Shouldn’t be underestimated.

1Feb Leo 24f HcpH soft 3/25 Perceval Legallois (FR) 2l

Dec24 Nav 25f HcpH soft 1/20 Backmersackme (IRE) s.h

Aug24 Gal 24f HcpH soft 1/16 Littlebiggie (IRE) 6l

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 336-14

TIMEFORM VIEW Walk In The Park gelding got oﬀ to a successful start in 23f novice hurdle at Fairyhouse in December Failed to build on that in the expected manner when fourth of 5 in 22f novice at Thurles following month. Shouldn’t be written oﬀ for

8 INTENSE APPROACH (GB) (41)

Ch g Jack Hobbs - Intense Tango 6 11-7

J Sean Bowen

T John McConnell, Ireland

O Ms Caroline Ahearn

B Swanbridge Bloodstock Ltd

9 JASMIN DE VAUX (FR)

(41)

B g Tirwanako (FR) - Que du Charmil (FR) 6 11-7

J P. Townend

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede

B Mr Didier Desrayaud

S The Sporting Life

10 JAX JUNIOR (GB) (36)

B g Jack Hobbs - Double Storm 6 11-7

J Tom Cannon

T Lucy Wadham, Newmarket

O Mrs Cheryl Burton

B Mrs C R Burton

S Weatherbys Hamilton LLP

11 JET BLUE (FR) (90)

J James Reveley

T D. Cottin, France

O Prof Caroline Tisdall

B Neustrian Associates & Haras de Montaigu

12 JIG’S FORGE (IRE) (48)

B g Westerner - Tisonlyme (IRE) 6 11-7

J Ben Jones

T Ben Pauling, Naunton

O Mr K. Dole

B Mrs Karen McLoughney

S Fitzdares

13 MA SHANTOU (IRE) (48)

B g Shantou (USA) - Ma Pretention (FR) 6 11-7

J Harry Cobden

T Emma Lavelle, Marlborough

O Mighty Acorn Stables

B Michael & Leonard Cave

S Hatherden Horse Transport

14 NATIVEHILL (IRE) (12)

B g Flemensﬁrth (USA) - Fairy Native (IRE) 7 11-7

J Nico de Boinville E Tongue Strap

T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

O Bartlett, Carthy & Speelman

B Frank Motherway

S Albert Bartlett

15 PORT JOULAIN (FR)

(46)

B g Cokoriko (FR) - Apple’s Noa (FR) 6 11-7

J Brian Hayes

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs S. Ricci

B Mr Sebastien Chemin

16 SOUNDS VICTORIUS (IRE) (41)

Br g Champs Elysees - Sounds Charming (IRE) 6 11-7

J Mr P. W. Mullins

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Bruton Street Partnership

B Jim & John Lawler

TFRHHHII BHA137

FORM 211211 CD

TIMEFORMVIEWEnjoyedanexcellentsummer/autumnwhenthreetimes a hurdles scorer and also a ﬁne second in Persian War at Chepstow Resumed from a three-month break with a cosy 3m novice success at Musselburgh and he’s no forlorn hope.

1Feb Mus 23f Hdl gd-sf 1/5 Gale Mahler (IRE) 5

Oct24 Chl 23f Hdl good 1/5 Hauraki Gulf 6l Oct24 Chp 19f Hdl soft 2/7 Flying Fortune (IRE) 7

TFRHHHHI BHA141

FORM 11-0144 C D

TIMEFORMVIEW2024ChampionBumperwinnerandhemadeawinninghurdling debut in maiden at Navan in December Cheekpieces on when a solid fourth in Nathaniel Lacy & Partners Solicitors Novices’Hurdle at Leopardstown (22.2f) last time.The choice of PaulTownendfromhisyard’shalfdozenandhecangowell.

1Feb Leo 22f Hdl soft 4/12 Final Demand (IRE) 17l

5Jan Naa 20f Hdl soft 4/8 The Yellow Clay (IRE) 22l

Dec24 Nav 16f Hdl soft 1 The Enabler (IRE) 41/4l

TFRHHHII BHA137

FORM 23-0113

TIMEFORM VIEW Hasn’t looked back since undergoing breathing surgery, making all in novice events at Doncaster and Ascot either side of Christmas Advanced his form when third of 6 in Listed hurdle at Huntingdon (2m4f) last month.Likeable sort who hasn’t stopped improving yet.

6Feb Hun 19f Hdl gd-sf 3/6 Califet En Vol (IRE) 11/2l

18Jan Asc 21f Hdl good 1/6 Country Park (IRE) 17l

Dec24 Don 19f Hdl gd-sf 1/8 Oﬀ The Jury (IRE) 10l

TFRHHHII BHA140 FORM 13-3121 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Very useful French hurdler who bagged a third success onhisﬁrstoutingforDavidCottininGrade2BristolNoviceHurdleoverC&D in December Oﬀ since but he’s much respected with his stamina proven.

Dec24 Chl 23f Hdl gd-sf 1/6 Western Knight (IRE) 61/2l Nov24 Aut 18f Hdl - 2 Ain’t Got Wings (FR) 3/4

Oct24 Aut 18f Hdl - 1 Kayo Coco (FR) 7l

TFRHHHII BHA-

FORM F31-14 D

TIMEFORMVIEWWinningIrishpointerwhomadeasuccessfulstartinthis sphere in 2m4f novice at Ffos Las in November Not disgraced when a well-held fourth of 6 in River Don Novices’ Hurdle at Doncaster (3m). Remains with potential.

25Jan Don 24f Hdl gd-sf 4/6 Yellow Car (IRE) 20l Nov24 Fls 20f Hdl soft 1/12 Blue Las 6l

TFRHHHII BHA130

FORM 10-2113 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive sort who bagged novice hurdles (around 2m4f) at Warwick and Windsor before Christmas before posting an excellent third of 6 in River Don Novices’Hurdle (3m) in January.No forlorn hope.

25Jan Don 24f Hdl gd-sf 3/6 Yellow Car (IRE) 31/2l Dec24 Wdr 20f Hdl gd-sf 1/4 Excello (FR) 13/

Nov24 War 21f Hdl gd-sf 1/5 Barlovento (IRE) 9l

TFRHHHII BHA116

FORM 61/-21 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Changed hands for £260,000 after winning between the ﬂags and he built on a promising hurdling debut Newbury second when landing the odds in 2m5f novice atHuntingdon 12 daysago.That form leaves him with lots to ﬁnd here but remainswithconsiderablepotentialnowhisstaminaisunlockedmore.

2Mar Hun 20f Hdl gd-sf 1/6 Big Bert (IRE) 16l Dec24 Nby 20f Hdl soft 2/8 De Kingpin (IRE) 7l

TFRHHHII BHA-

FORM 11-0P31 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful bumper scorer who got oﬀ the mark at the third attempt in this sphere in 5-runner novice hurdle at Punchestown (19.2f) in January.Needs this big step up in trip to spark improvement.

27Jan Pun 19f Hdl heavy 1 Sermandzarak (FR) 21/4l Dec24 Leo 19f Hdl gd-yd 3 The Enabler (IRE) 2l Dec24 Pun 16f Hdl gd-yd P You Oughta Know (IRE) -

TFRHHHII BHAFORM 14-4215

TIMEFORM VIEW Fourth in Champion bumper and improving over hurdles, scoring at Fairyhouse (20f) on New Year’s Day before a very good ﬁfth of 12 in Nathaniel Lacy and Partners’ Hurdle at Leopardstown (22f).

A real staying type who has more to oﬀer here.

1Feb Leo 22f Hdl soft 5/12 Final Demand (IRE) 21l

1Jan Fai 20f Hdl yd-sf 1 Come Walk With Me (IRE)

Nov24 Pun 20f Hdl good 2 Rockymountainbleu

17 WENDIGO (FR) (30)

Br g Great Pretender (IRE) - Biche d’Oo (FR) 6 11-7

J Gavin Sheehan

T Jamie Snowden, Lambourn

O RC Syndicate I

B Mr Olivier Tricot

S racingclub.com

18 WINGMEN (IRE) (41)

B g Kayf Tara - Raise You Five (IRE) 7 11-7

J Jack Kennedy E Hood

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Bective Stud

B Cathal Ennis

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

19 YELLOW CAR (IRE) (48)

Br g Malinas (GER) - Golan Road (IRE) 7 11-7

J Nick Slatter

T David Killahena & Graeme McPherson, Stow-On-The-Wold

O Harry Redknapp & Graeme McPherson

B Mr Seamus P Neville

S Pragnell

20 THE BIG WESTERNER (IRE) (78)

B m Westerner - Augusta Bay 6 11-0

J Darragh O’Keeﬀe

T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland

O M. K. Mariga

B Southeast B/S, O. Hickey & L. Gleeson

DECLARED RUNNERS 20

TFRHHHHI BHA137

FORM 11-2121 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Has quickly made up into a very useful hurdler, 4 3/4 lengths second to The New Lion in Challow Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury before easily landing the odds in 2m4f Wetherby novice last month. Needs considering now stepping up to 3m.

12Feb Wet 19f Hdl soft 1/10 Ailt An Chorrain (IRE) 71/2l Dec24 Nby 20f Hdl gd-sf 2/7 The New Lion 43/4l Nov24 Lud 21f Hdl good 1/4 Lightningupourdays 5l

TFRHHHHI BHA142

FORM 3-11232 D

TIMEFORMVIEWSmartbumperwinnerwhogotoﬀtotheperfectstartoverhurdles at Navan in November Has improved with each of his three runs since,though no match forFinalDemandwhenrunner-upinNathanielLacy&PartnersSolicitorsNovices’Hurdle atLeopardstown(22.2f)lasttime.Holdssolidclaims

1Feb Leo 22f Hdl soft 2/12 Final Demand (IRE) 12l

5Jan Naa 20f Hdl soft 3/8 The Yellow Clay (IRE) 11l Dec24 Chl 16f Hdl gd-sf 2/4 Country Mile (IRE) 71/2l

TFRHHHII BHA134 FORM 121531 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Point winner who has progressed steadily over hurdles, winning2ofhisﬁrst3startsatNewtonAbbotandFontwell.Tookanotherstep forward when narrowly landing River Don Novices’ Hurdle at Doncaster (3m) in January and this likeable sort is respected.

25Jan Don 24f Hdl gd-sf 1/6 Moon Rocket (IRE) nk

Dec24 Chl 23f Hdl gd-sf 3/6 Jet Blue (FR) 91/2l Nov24 Don 19f HcpH good 5/8 Rightsotom (GER) 21l

TFRHHHHH BHAFORM 1-11 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Westerner mare made a winning start in points and quickly made up into a smart hurdler when bagging novice at Punchestown then Grade 2 at Limerick (23ft) by 4 1/4 lengths from Mozzies Sister Open to further improvement and she rates a big player receiving 7lb all round.

Dec24 Lim 23f Hdl yd-sf 1/6 Mozzies Sister (IRE) 41/4l

Nov24 Pun 21f Hdl soft 1 Argento Boy (IRE) 1l

2024: STELLAR STORY (IRE) 7 11 7 Sam Ewing 33-1 (Gordon Elliott) 13 ran

Probable S.P’s: 7-2 The Big Westerner (IRE), 9-1 Jet Blue (FR), 10-1 Wingmen (IRE), 12-1 Jasmin de Vaux (FR), 16-1 Ballybow (IRE), Derryhassen Paddy (IRE), Flicker of Hope (FR), Intense Approach (GB), Wendigo (FR), 20-1 Argento Boy (IRE), 28-1 Jax Junior (GB), Sounds Victorius (IRE), 33-1 Fishery Lane (FR), Yellow Car (IRE), 40-1 Inn At The Park (IRE), Port Joulain (FR), 50-1 Ma Shantou (IRE), 66-1 First Confession (IRE), Jig’s Forge (IRE), Nativehill (IRE)

This looks wide open but Henry de Bromhead last won this with his Gold Cup hero Minella Indo and his smart mare THE BIG WESTERNER can use her 7lb sex allowance to telling effect and retain her unbeaten record over hurdles. Gordon Elliott’s Wingmen found only Final Demand too good in a Leopardstown Grade 1 last time and heads the list of dangers, although Jasmin de Vaux (choice of Paul Townend), Wendigo and Ballybow all command plenty of respect too. Derryhassen Paddy completes the shortlist.

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THE JOCKEY CLUB RACECOURSES

SOUTH WEST REGION FREQUENT RUNNER SCHEME

The Jockey Club South West Frequent Runner Scheme is aimed at rewarding trainers who run horses regularly at Jockey Club Racecourses in the South West Region - Cheltenham, Exeter, Warwick, and Wincanton.

There are two categories of a frequent runner. Trainers with 40 or more horses and Trainers with 40 or fewer horses in training.

The Championship for the 2023/2024 season will start at Warwick on 25 September and will conclude at Warwick on the 30 May 2024.

All qualifying races are allocated a star rating (* to *****) with trainers awarded full points (star rating) for their first runner and half points for additional runners in the same race. These are based on the average numbers of runners a race has attracted over the previous two or three years as follows

1 star - 18 plus runners 2 stars - 15-17 3

- 12-14 4

– 8-11 5 stars – less than 8

The star ratings for each qualifying race are marked with the race conditions.

STANDINGS (as of 10 March 2025)

I- Y

ON MON Y 17

THE BOODLES CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP STEEPLE CHASE

RACE DESCRIPTION

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup is the most prestigious steeplechase found anywhere in the world. The cream of British and Irish staying chasers will be lining up for what is known as the Blue Riband of steeple chasing, and the small matter of a £363,999 ﬁrst prize. Many of the past winners of this race such as Best Mate, Kauto Star and Denman to name just three have become legendary names in the world of National Hunt racing.

Galopin Des Champs could well join the illustrious list should he defend his crown. Once again, as is usual in Championship races, all horses carry the same weight, in this case 11st 10lb.

Galopin Des Champs emulated the same stable’s Al Boum Photo (2019 & 2020) in winning back-to-back Gold Cups, in what was pretty straight forward fashion. Paul Townend opted to give him a more positive ride this year, he travelled and jumped smoothly before staying on powerfully up the Cheltenham hill to put an end to any challenge from those in behind Could he become the ﬁrst since Best Mate by winning it a third time this year?

FESTIVAL HISTORY

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, run over three miles and two-and-a-half furlongs, has a history longer than most races at The Festival. The first ‘Cheltenham Gold Cup’ took place in July 1819 and was a Flat race over three miles on Cleeve Hill, overlooking the present racecourse. The inaugural winner, Spectre, won a prize of 100 guineas for his owner.

It wasn’t until 12 March 1924 when the race was run as we know it now, although in those days it took place on what is now the Old Course and was overshadowed by the National Hunt Chase. That first renewal was won by the five-year-old Red Splash, who earned connections £685!

The race was first abandoned due to frost in 1931 and in 1937 due to flooding, but the five intervening years saw the most prolific horse in the race’s history – Golden Miller. He won five consecutive Gold Cups between 1932 and 1936 and also managed a Grand National for good measure in 1934.

The Vincent O’Brien-trained Cottage Rake became the first multiple winner in the post-war era winning all three renewals from 1948-50. Such was his success that he helped to popularise the Gold Cup, and The Festival itself, with the Irish public

During the 1960s the legendary Arkle cemented his name in racing’s Hall of Fame by winning all three renewals from 1964-66.

Such was Arkle’s superiority prior to his final victory that he was sent off the 1-10 favourite and the Tom Dreaper-trained icon remains the shortest-priced winner in the race’s history.

Perhaps the most remarkable feat by a trainer came in 1983 when Michael Dickinson saddled the first five finishers. Bregawn, ridden by Graham Bradley came out on top but can you name the other four? Captain John, Wayward Lad, Silver Buck and Ashley House, in case you were left scratching your head.

Dawn Run created another piece of history in 1986 when Paddy Mullins’ mare became the first, and only, horse to date to win both the Gold Cup and the Champion Hurdle.

A new era of domination began in 2002 when Best Mate, trained by Henrietta Knight, won the first of three consecutive Gold Cups.

His final victory in 2004 confirmed him as only the fourth horse to have won the race three or more times.

The Paul Nicholls-trained Kauto Star outclassed his rivals in 2007 but twelve months later he had no answer to his strong-travelling stablemate Denman. In 2009, the pair locked horns again but with Denman only just recovered from a heart condition, Kauto Star gained revenge and became the first horse to regain the Gold Cup.

In 2013, Bob’s Worth gave Nicky Henderson his second Gold Cup winner in three years following the success of Long Run in 2011. The 2014 renewal saw Lord Windermere prevail in a dramatic renewal and 2015 had its fair share of drama as Coneygree became the first novice since Captain Christy in 1974 to lift the Gold Cup

Recently we have seen trainers win the race for the first time with Don Cossack, Sizing John, Native River, Al Boum Photo, Minella Indo and A Plus Tard landing the spoils for their respective trainers Al Boum Photo not only ended Willie Mullins drought in the Gold Cup but then went onto win it again in 2020. The same happened in 2021 when Henry de Bromhead won the race for the first time with Minella Indo. The duo returned in 2022 to try and reclaim the crown but were unable to defeat the 2021 runner-up A Plus Tard, who delivered a spine tingling performance.

A Plus Tard was unable to follow up his 2022 success and instead the race went the way of racing’s latest superstar, Galopin Des Champs, who then won again last year, giving Willie Mullins his fourth winner of the race in the last 11 years. He now returns after matching Al Boum Photo’s record, to try and become the fifth horse to win three Gold Cups.

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O Hunt H

Sponsor S

Equipment E

CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE)

for ﬁve yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £646880

Owners Prize Money. 1st £278417, 2nd £114757, 3rd £57378, 4th £28721, 5th £14361, 6th £7180, 7th £3558, 8th £1811. (Penalty Value £363999.38) 3m

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%) runs GALOPIN DES CHAMPS

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%) runs GALOPIN DES CHAMPS

Fancy That: H De Bromhead won this race in 2021 and 2022.

The stable runs MONTY’S STAR today.

W P Mullins won this race in 2019, 2020, 2023 and 2024. The stable runs GALOPIN DES CHAMPS today.

1 AHOY SENOR (IRE) (54)

B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Dara Supreme (IRE) 10 11-10

J Derek Fox

T Lucinda Russell, Kinross

O Wymer & Russell

B Mr D.P. Constable

S Ian Macleod & Co Ltd

2 BANBRIDGE (IRE) (78)

Ch g Doyen (IRE) - Old Carton Lass (IRE) 9 11-10

J J. J. Slevin

E Cheek Pieces

T Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland

O Mr R. A. Bartlett

B Dan McSorley

S Albert Bartlett, Mr O’Brien

3 CORBETTS CROSS (IRE) (27)

Ch g Gamut (IRE) - Annagh Hill Lady (IRE) 8 11-10

J Jack Kennedy

T Emmet Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mr G Murphy

4 GALOPIN DES CHAMPS (FR) (41)

Bl g Timos (GER) - Manon des Champs (FR) 9 11-10

J P. Townend

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs Audrey Turley

B G.A.E.C. Des Champs

5 GENTLEMANSGAME (GB) (48)

Gr g Gentlewave (IRE) - Grainne Ni Maille 9 11-10

J Darragh O’Keeﬀe

T M. F. Morris, Ireland

O Robcour

B Yorton Farm Stud & Mrs M. L. Luck

6 INOTHEWAYURTHINKIN (IRE) (41)

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Sway (FR) 7 11-10

J Mark Walsh E Tongue Strap

T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mrs Noreen McManus

7 MONTY’S STAR (IRE)

(41)

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Tempest Belle (IRE) 8 11-10

J Rachael Blackmore

T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland

O Mr Barry Maloney

B Aidan Aherne

TFRHIIII BHA165

FORM 362-3PP C

TIMEFORM VIEW Not a ﬂuent jumper of fences but top-class on his day. Shaped as if as good as ever when third in Old Roan at Aintree on reappearance but has pulled up on both runs since.Has had wind surgery.

19Jan Wdr 22f Ch soft P/6 Protektorat (FR)Nov24 Hay 25f Ch soft P/7 Royale Pagaille (FR)Oct24 Ain 19f HcpC good 3/5 Minella Drama (IRE) 21/4l

TFRHHHHI BHA168

FORM 10-14U1 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Raced mostly at shorter but there’s stamina in his pedigree andheprovedsuitedbythereturnto3mwhenoverhaulingIlEstFrancaisintheKing George at Kempton. This race asks a diﬀerent question but he’s good enough to ensure Galopin Des Champs doesn’t have things all his own way.

Dec24 Kmp 24f Ch good 1/11 Il Est Francais (FR)

Dec24 Crk 16f Ch yield U/8 Energumene (FR)Nov24 Nav 16f Ch yield 4/6 Found A Fifty (IRE) 28l

TFRHHHII BHA161

FORM F13-262 C BF

TIMEFORM VIEW High-class chaser who landed the National Hunt Chase at last year’s Festival before a ﬁne third to Gerri Colombe in Bowl at Aintree (25f,soft)inApril.Operatingalittlebelowthatlevelthisseasonbutwillatleast ﬁnd this test more suitable than the 21f he ran over at Ascot last time.

15Feb Asc 21f Ch good 2/6 Pic D’orhy (FR) 10l

Dec24 Kmp 24f Ch good 6/11 Banbridge (IRE) 20l

Oct24 Wex 23f Ch soft 2/3 Heart Wood (FR) 7l

TFRHHHHH BHA177

FORM 11-2311 CD

TIMEFORMVIEWDualCheltenhamGoldCupwinner Onlythirdon21/2m Punchestown reappearance but has comfortably won a pair of Grade 1s at Leopardstown since returned to 3m.Sure to take all the beating as he bids to become only the ﬁfth three-time winner of this race

1Feb Leo 24f Ch yield 1/10 Grangeclare West (IRE) 43/

Dec24 Leo 24f

TFRHHIII BHA160

FORM 1P5-433

TIMEFORM VIEW Landed the 2023 Charlie Hall at Wetherby Back to that sortofformwhenthirdof9toGalopinDesChampsinSavillsatLeopardstown (3m) just after Christmas but below par when a well-held third in the Cotswold Chase here in January.Pulled up in this last year

25Jan Chl 25f Ch soft 3/6 L’homme Presse (FR) 16l

Dec24 Leo 24f Ch gd-yd 3/9 Galopin des Champs (FR) 12l

May24 Pun 24f Ch gd-yd 4/9 Fastorslow (FR) 5l

TFRHHHII BHA160

FORM 011-054 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Won the Kim Muir at this meeting last year before adding a Grade1 novice atAintree Has foundlife tougherintop opencompany since buthe did stayonwellwhen71/4lengthsfourthtoGalopinDesChampsintheIrishGoldCup(3m) 6weeksagoandthislongertripwillplaytohisstrengths

1Feb Leo 24f Ch yield 4/10 Galopin des Champs (FR) 71/4l Dec24 Leo 24f Ch gd-yd 5/9 Galopin des Champs (FR) 15l Nov24 Pun 19f Ch soft 7/8 Fact To File (FR) 36l

TFRHHHII BHA160

FORM 312-225

TIMEFORM VIEW Second to Fact To File and Spillane’s Tower in Grade 1 novices here and at Punchestown last spring. Better eﬀort this season when 7 1/2 length ﬁfth (Inothewayurthinkinneckaheadinfourth)toGalopinDesChampsintheIrishGoldCup atLeopardstownlastmonth.Longertripnowshouldsuit.

8 ROYALE PAGAILLE (FR) (27)

B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Royale Cazoumaille (FR) 11 11-10

J Charlie Deutsch

T Venetia Williams, Hereford

O Mrs S. Ricci

B Mr Philippe Mace

S Faucets Limited

9 THE REAL WHACKER (IRE) (78)

B g Mahler - Credit Box (IRE) 9 11-10

J Brian Hughes E Tongue Strap

T Patrick Neville, Leyburn

O Neville, Mann, Duffus, Dennis-Price

B Mrs B. Keane

S Sinclair’s of Rhynie Limited

DECLARED RUNNERS 9

TFRHHIII BHA163

FORM F/1F-1P6 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Mud lover who landed a second Betfair Chase at Haydock in November Not so good away from testing ground when a remote sixth in the Grand National Trial there last month and he’s unlikely to get his ideal conditions here this afternoon.

15Feb Hay 28f HcpC gd-sf 6/9 Famous Bridge (IRE) 38l

18Jan Hay 25f HcpC soft P/8 Mr Vango (IRE) -

Nov24 Hay 25f Ch soft 1/7 Grey Dawning (IRE) 2l

TFRHHHII BHA159 FORM 2P5-U14 C

TIMEFORMVIEWWontheBrownAdvisoryatthe2023Festival.Backtothat sort of level when making all in the Charlie Hall at Wetherby (3m, good) in November and respectable fourth of 11 in King George since. If he’s allowed to get into a good rhythm in front he might outrun big odds

Dec24 Kmp 24f Ch good 4/11 Banbridge (IRE) 17l

Nov24 Wet 24f Ch good 1/6 Bravemansgame (FR) 31/2l

Sep24 Lis 23f HcpC soft U/17 Flooring Porter (IRE) -

2024: GALOPIN DES CHAMPS (FR) 8 11 10 P Townend 10-11 (W P Mullins) 11 ran

Running for the ﬁrst time since Wind Surgery No 1. Stewards Note: AHOY SENOR: Following its run on 19/1/2025 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly

Probable S.P’s: 8-15 Galopin des Champs (FR), 11-2 Banbridge (IRE), 11-1 Inothewayurthinkin (IRE), 20-1 Monty’s Star (IRE), 22-1 Corbetts Cross (IRE), 50-1 Gentlemansgame (GB), The Real Whacker (IRE), 100-1 Ahoy Senor (IRE), 150-1 Royale Pagaille (FR)

GALOPIN DES CHAMPS landed a third Irish Gold Cup last month and can cement his place among the greats by repeating that feat in chasing’s blue riband event. Banbridge is a top-class chaser in his own right and December’s King George hero has the potential to give the reigning champion plenty to think about with ground conditions likely to be ideal for him. Inothewayurthinkin, who was supplemented for £25,000 last weekend, can complete his Grand National preparations by staying on for third.

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GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME

Tribute to George Graham who has enjoyed Cheltenham Festival for over 50 years. The Cheltenham Gold Cup has always been a highlight in his racing calendar George is a true fan ofthe sport and loves to watch a good champion, long shot and underdog come good. Like a ﬁne thoroughbred, he embodies strength, determination and grace facing life with the courage of any racehorse on the ﬁnal stretch. Today this race is for you, may your spirit ride on with every gallop. With love from all your family, friends and loved ones. xx

Cheltenham Racecourse proudly presents...

FESTIVAL FEVER

SCAN TO ENTER OUR GRAND PRIZE DRAW

Prizes include Raceday Hospitality and Annual Memberships for the 2025/2026 season.

THE ST. JAMES’S PLACE FESTIVAL CHALLENGE CUP OPEN HUNTERS’ CHASE

RACE DESCRIPTION

Usually known as the ‘Amateurs’ Gold Cup’, the St James’s Place Festival Chase is the Championship race for the stars of the Point-toPointing circuit. Horses are only qualiﬁed for this race if they have either been placed ﬁrst or second in two hunter chases since September 2022, won two open Point-to-Point races in that same timescale, or a combination of the two, with some extra allowances. Each of the runners carries the same weight - 12st, except Angels Dawn who carries 11st 7lb as the only mare in the race.

Sine Nomine had placed on both visits to the track and had previously won the Champion Hunters’ Chase at Stratford, so his win here was certainly not out of the blue His price was inﬂated due to short priced JP McManus runner, Its On The Line and it was this pair who fought out the ﬁnish. The Champion Hunter Chase winner looked to have made amends for his second 12 months prior but was run down late by Sine Nomine under Mr John Dawson.

HUNTER CHASE

Run over three miles, two furlongs & 70 yards. 22 fences to be jumped Total prize fund of £50,000 £24,445 to the winner

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years

TRAINER

Paul Nicholls 2 winners Today Paul saddles Shearer

JOCKEY

Mr Derek O’Connor

Finished second last year Today Derek rides Its On The Line

for ﬁve yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund

Owners Prize Money. 1st

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Hunt H

Sponsor S

Equipment E

2nd

3rd

2 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. Bold Form

Leading course trainer (20-25): P Nicholls (21 wins from 225 runners, 9%) runs SHEARER

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): Mrs G Andrews (5 wins from 10 runners, 50%) runs FAIRLY FAMOUS

Fancy That: P Nicholls won this race in 2017 and 2018.

The stable runs SHEARER today.

1 ALLMANKIND (GB) (33)

B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Wemyss Bay 9 12-0

J Mr Alex Chadwick E Hood, Tongue Strap

T Mrs J. Owen, Newmarket

O The Gredley Family

H Thurlow

S Unex Group

2 ANGELS BREATH (IRE) (36)

Gr g Shantou (USA) - Mystic Masie (IRE) 11 12-0

J Mr Edward Vaughan

T Tim Vaughan, Cowbridge

O Mr Stephen Clarke

H Glamorgan

S DragonBet

3 AU FLEURON (FR) (103)

B g Crillon (FR) - La Pelodette (FR) 8 12-0

J Miss Aimee Jones E Cheek Pieces

T Max Comley, Naunton

O Mr J Jones & Mrs A Sargeant

H Heythrop

4 BARDENSTOWN LAD (GB) (28)

Ch g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Pougatcheva (FR) 10 12-0

J Mr Eoin Mahon E Cheek Pieces

T David Loughnane, Tern Hill

O The Stay Between The Ditches Syndicate

H North Shropshire

5 CARNFUNNOCK (IRE) (34)

B g Getaway (GER) - Simply Erin (IRE) 8 12-0

J Mr Stephen Connor

T S. R. B. Crawford, Northern Ireland

O Largy Bloodstock

H East Antrim

6 D’JANGO (FR) (17)

Br g Balko (FR) - Quizas Jolie (FR) 12 12-0

J Mr Darren Andrews E Tongue Strap

T Miss V. Collins, Broadway

O Miss Sarah A. Dawson

H North Cotswold

7 FAIRLY FAMOUS (IRE) (47)

B g Fame And Glory - Fairly Deﬁnite (IRE) 8 12-0

J Miss Gina Andrews

T Mrs G. Andrews

O The Signy & Marriage Families

TFRHHHII BHA139

FORM 0/-33411 C

TIMEFORMVIEWSmarthurdlerandhigh-classchaserduringhistimewith Dan Skelton.Missed 20 months but fair bit of ability remains judged on his 3 eﬀorts in handicaps this term. Successful both starts in points, soundly beating only other ﬁnisher on second of them,but stamina a concern here.

Nov24 Wet 24f Hdl good 4/4 Beacon Edge (IRE)

16f

TFRHHHII BHA131

FORM 45P-212 BF

TIMEFORMVIEWEndedlastseasonwithaheavydefeatintheMartinPipe buthavingwarmedupwitharunbetweentheﬂagsinDecember,hemadea winning reappearancefor new yard backchasing in a Taunton hunter (21.7f) in January.Disappointing at Ffos Las since.

6Feb Fls 21f Ch heavy 2/7 Shearer (IRE) 37l

8Jan Tnt 21f Ch soft 1/9 Take All (IRE) 5l Mar24 Chl 20f HcpH heavy P/21 Better Days Ahead (IRE) -

TFRHHIII BHA121

FORM 00153P

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdler for Gordon Elliott and a point winner,but little to shout about of late.

May24 Dpk 28f Ch good 7 Private Ryan (IRE) 45l May24 Kny 23f Ch gd-yd 10 Early Doors (FR) 87l Aug23 Kny 22f HcpH yd-sf 6 We’llhavewan (IRE) 24l

TFRHHHII BHA132

FORM P32511 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Winner of a handicap hurdle and maiden chase for Gavin Cromwell at Kilbeggan in 2024 and displayed a willing attitude from the front when landing 5-runner hunter for new yard last month. This a diﬀerent examination.

14Feb Fkn 24f Ch good 1/5 Frere d’Armes (FR) 1l

20Jan War 24f Ch gd-sf 5/9 Lift Me Up (IRE) 23l

Aug24 Gal 22f HcpH yield P/18 The Wallpark (IRE) -

TFRHHHII BHA121

FORM 425211

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdles winner who has made an encouraging start over fences, making the frame at Down Royal (19.7f) inMaybeforebumpingintoagoodprospectatWexford.Won2oflast3starts in points but this a tough ask tackling a new trip

Aug24 Per 20f HcpC good 5/6 Dripsey Moon (IRE) 19l Jul24 Wex 16f Ch yield 2 Common Practice (IRE) 8l May24 Dow 19f Ch good 4 Magic Tricks (FR) 73/4l

TFRHHHII BHA122 (-2)

FORM 6-3P554

TIMEFORMVIEWHadplentyofexposureoverfencesandwonahunterfor this yard in January 2024. Mixed bag since but he did ﬁnish fourth at huge odds in this a year ago

25Feb Lei 22f Ch heavy 4/7 Bennys King (IRE) 49l 7Feb Bgr 24f Ch soft 5/7 Eva’s Oskar (IRE) 13l 24Jan San 24f

FORM P1-1311 CD

H Essex & Suffolk TFRHHHHI BHA133

TIMEFORM VIEW Prolific in points and produced his best effort in this sphere when readily landing C&D event in May. Warmed up for this with anothersuccessbetweentheflagsinJanuaryandthisthoroughstayercango well.

8 GO ON CHEZ (GB) (28)

B g Malinas (GER) - Who’s Afraid 9 12-0

J Mr Tom Hutsby E Cheek Pieces

T F. A. Hutsby, Wellesbourne

O Mrs Christine Osborne

H Warwickshire

9 HAVEN’T TIME (IRE) (24)

B g Curtain Time (IRE) - Good Thyne Lucy (IRE) 11 12-0

J Miss Lucy Turner

T Miss S. McQueen, Aymestrey

O Miss S. McQueen

H Ludlow

10 ITS ON THE LINE (IRE) (34)

Br g Presenting - Ten Dollar Bill (IRE) 8 12-0

J Mr Derek O’Connor

T Emmet Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

H Carlow Farmers

11 LIFT ME UP (IRE) (53)

B g Mahler - I’ll Takeher Bach (IRE) 9 12-0

J Mr Jack Andrews E Cheek Pieces

T Miss M. Filby, Hinton-in-the-Hedges

O Mr & Mrs C Horner

H Grafton

12 LISLEIGH LAD (IRE)

(54)

B g Dansant - Babies Present (IRE) 7 12-0

J Mr Darragh Allen

T Miss Eleanor Broderick, Ireland

O Miss Eleanor Broderick

H Avondhu

13 MUSIC DRIVE (FR) (34)

B g Muhtathir - Acland Street (FR) 8 12-0

J Miss Ellie Callwood E Tongue Strap

T Kelly Morgan, Waltham on the Wolds

O Foxﬁeld Stud Syndicate

H Belvoir

14 ONTHEROPES (IRE) (34)

Br g Presenting - Dushion (IRE) 11 12-0

J Mr Charlie Mullins

T Thomas Mullins, Ireland

O Mrs H. Mullins

H Carlow Farmers

15 PLAN OF ATTACK (IRE) (20)

B g Court Cave (IRE) - Loadsofability (IRE) 12 12-0

J Mr Barry O’Neill E Blinkers

T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland

O Benjamin Halsall

H Waterford

16 ROCKY’S HOWYA (IRE) (47)

B g Ask - It’s My Choice (IRE) 9 12-0

J Mr D. Queally

T Declan Queally, Ireland

O Mrs Margaret C. Kiely

H Lismore

TFRHHIII BHA125 FORM 1-14644

TIMEFORM VIEW Back-to-back hunter winner last spring. Jumped right and folded quite tamely, even allowing for fact he may have needed the run on last month’s return to action for new handler Doesn’t always look straightforward

14Feb Fkn 24f Ch good 4/5 Bardenstown Lad 34l Aug24 Wor 23f HcpC good 4/6 Kinondo Kwetu 22l Jun24 Utt 26f HcpC good 6/14 Hang In There (IRE) 37l

TFRHHIII BHA117 FORM 0/513-32

TIMEFORM VIEW Won a Southwell hunter this time last year and stuck to his task really well when second to Shearer having made a bad mistake at Taunton last month.Should stay this far but huge career best required.

18Feb Tnt 23f Ch gd-sf 2/7 Shearer (IRE) 1

May24 Chl 25f Ch soft 3/9 What A Glance 11l Mar24 Exe 24f Ch heavy 3/5 Drop Flight (FR) 8

TFRHHHII BHA139

FORM 121-123 BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner of the Champion Hunters Chase at Punchestown,latterly in May.Below that level when odds-on twice to add to his tally in that sphere during the winter but he’s twice ﬁnished runner-up in this race so is more than capable of making his presence felt.

8Feb Naa 24f Ch soft 3 Ryehill (IRE) 17l Dec24 Dow 24f Ch gd-yd 2 Big Interest (IRE) 4

May24 Pun 24f Ch yield 1/14

TFRHHHII BHA132

FORM 21-32P1

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple-point winner who took a step forward on just his fourth start under Rules when second to What A Glance in a good-quality hunter at Stratford in May. Fitted with cheekpieces and matched that form when scoring at Warwick in January.This asks a diﬀerent question.

20Jan War 24f Ch gd-sf 1/9 Bennys King (IRE)

May24 Str 27f Ch good 2/8 What A Glance

May24 Chl 26f Ch soft 3/9 Fairly Famous (IRE) 27l

TFRHIIII BHA117

FORM 6-541P5

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly-raced 7-y-o who got oﬀ the mark in 6-runner hunteratFairyhouseinNovember Heldbackbyjumping2monthslaterand this a diﬀerent environment to what he’s used to

19Jan Thu 25f Ch good 5 Willitgoahead (IRE) 14l Nov24 Fai 24f Ch good 1 Ask d’Man (IRE) 61/2l May24 Tip 23f Ch yield 5 Grange Soldier (IRE) 73/4l

TFRHHHII BHA125

FORM 1320/-11

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful in bumpers and bright start over hurdles in 2022, oﬀ the mark in a Galway maiden (19f) prior to improved eﬀorts in defeat at Cheltenham. Left Gordon Elliott and has no chasing experience to call upon under Rules but has won both starts in points this year

Dec22 Leo 24f HcpH soft 9 Maxxum (IRE) 41l Nov22 Chl 21f Hdl good 2/7 Hermes Allen (FR) 9l Oct22 Chl 19f Hdl gd-fm 3/10 Mofasa 21/4l

TFRHHHII BHA136

FORM 5-00F12

TIMEFORM VIEW Smart handicap chaser at best for Willie Mullins and having won a point,he stuck to his task pretty well when runner-up to Ryehill on hunter debut at Naas last month.Task is to now build on that.

8Feb Naa 24f Ch soft 2 Ryehill (IRE) 12l Aug24 Gal 22f HcpC gd-yd F/20 Battleoverdoyen (IRE)Jul24 Kil 25f HcpC gd-yd 11 Idas Boy (IRE) 25l

TFRHHHII BHA129

FORM 2321-21

TIMEFORM VIEW Very useful chaser at his peak for leading yard Didn’t really take to the cross-country discipline in 2023 but ﬁt from a point win last month.Jury out as to how much ability he retains

Apr23 Pun 25f Ch good P Subset (IRE)Mar23 Chl 30f Ch soft F/16 Delta Work (FR)Jan23 Chl 30f HcpC gd-sf 7/15 Back On The Lash 11l

TFRHHHII BHA131

FORM 12/1-241

TIMEFORM VIEW Looked limited for most of his career but hit a purple patch in points and carried on the excellent work when fourth in the 2023 renewal of this race Failed to meet expectations only Rules start since at Limerick in December Added to tally between the ﬂags in January.

Dec24 Lim 22f Ch yd-sf 4 Con’s Roc (IRE) 12l

Mar23 Chl 26f Ch soft 4/23 Premier Magic (IRE) 4l Oct21 Crk 24f HcpH good 9 She’stherightone (IRE) 24l

17 RYEHILL (IRE) (34)

B g Mahler - Night Maid (IRE) 8 12-0

J Mr L. P. Shanahan

T Ross O’Sullivan, Ireland

O Outback Syndicate/Conor Brett

H Kildare

18 SHEARER (IRE) (24)

B g Flemensﬁrth (USA) - The Crown Jewel (IRE) 9 12-0

J Miss Olive Nicholls E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces

T Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat

O McNeill Family & Paul Nicholls

H Blackmore & Sparkford Vale

S Ultima Business Solutions

19 TAKE ALL (IRE) (27)

B g Golden Lariat (USA) - Miss Vickie (IRE) 10 12-0

J Mr Martin McIntyre E Hood, Tongue Strap

T M. Osborne, Bourton-On-The-Water

O Mrs Martine Scott

H Four Burrow

20 WEST OF CARRIG (IRE) (33)

B g Westerner - Pollywollydoodle (IRE) 8 12-0

J Mr A. J. Browne

T Don Browne, Ireland

O Mr Adrian Joseph Browne

H United Hunt

21 WHAT A GLANCE (GB) (26)

B g Passing Glance - Audley 10 12-0

J Mr Toby McCain-Mitchell E Tongue Strap

T Tom Britten, Bridgnorth

O Mrs Ann Taylor H Croome & West Warwickshire

22 WILLITGOAHEAD (IRE) (54)

B g Getaway (GER) - Vin Fizz (IRE) 7 12-0

J Mr J. L. Scallan

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Bective Stud

H Island

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

23 WONDERWALL (IRE) (131)

B g Yeats (IRE) - Rock Me Gently 9 12-0

J Mr Robert James E Tongue Strap

T S. Curling, Ireland

O Mr J. O’Leary

H Tipperary

24

ANGELS DAWN (IRE) (74)

B m Yeats (IRE) - Angels Guard Thee (IRE) 10 11-7

J Mr P. A. King

T S. Curling, Ireland

O Mr Alfred Sweetnam

H Tipperary

DECLARED RUNNERS 24

TFRHHHII BHA139

FORM 121-421

TIMEFORMVIEWChasedhomeAngel’sDawninapointinDecemberand left previous hunter form trailing in his wake when forging clear to land 9-runner contest at Naas from Ontheropes These stiﬀer fences ask a new challenge but he brings untapped potential to the table.

8Feb Naa 24f Ch soft 1 Ontheropes (IRE) 12l May24 Pun 24f Ch yield 4/14 Its On The Line (IRE) 29l Apr24 Crk 24f Ch soft 1 Glady Max (IRE) 17l

TFRHHHII BHA137

FORM 00/11-11 C

TIMEFORM VIEW Took well to fences with 2 novice handicap wins in summer2023andshowedhe’sstillverytalentedwhenscoringeasilyinaFfos LashunterbackfromalongabsenceinFebruary.Turnedout12dayslaterand workmanlike at Taunton but he’s a player with this trip expected to suit.

18Feb Tnt 23f Ch gd-sf 1/7 Haven’t Time (IRE)

6Feb Fls 21f Ch heavy 1/7 Angels Breath (IRE) 37l Jun23 Ain 24f HcpC good 1/3 Landen Calling (IRE) 21/

TFRHHIII BHA130

FORM 60r215

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser in Ireland at his peak and conﬁrmed he retains a chunk of his ability when second on hunter debut at Taunton in January.Won a point after but failed to jump with much ﬂuency back under Rules at Haydock last month.Up in trip

15Feb Hay 22f Ch gd-sf 5/6 My Drogo 91/4l 8Jan Tnt 21f Ch soft 2/9 Angels Breath (IRE) 5l Jul24 Wex 19f HcpC good 8 Railway Hurricane (IRE) 21l

TFRHHHII BHA114

FORM U23311

TIMEFORM VIEW Surpassed hurdles form in this code this winter with a braceofthird-placeﬁnishesthiswinter 16-lengthwinnerofapointlastmonth and he’s unexposed,but this is a tall order 15Jan Clo 20f Ch yd-sf 3 Milan Forth (IRE)

Dec24 Lim 22f Ch yd-sf 3 Con’s Roc (IRE)

Aug23 Kil 19f HcpH yield 8 El Champo (IRE) 22l

TFRHHIII BHA140

FORM 22-1122 C BF

TIMEFORMVIEWProgressiveforminhuntersforthisyard,supplementing his Cheltenham win at Stratford (both in May). Failed to win last 2 starts in points and this demands a career best.

May24 Str 27f Ch good 1/8 Lift Me Up (IRE)

May24 Chl 25f Ch soft 1/9 Yippee Ki Yay (IRE) 11l Apr24 Str 22f Ch gd-sf 2/6 Deise Aba (IRE) 3l

TFRHHHHI BHA131

FORM P-11121

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple point winner and plenty to like about his switch to Rules this winter, shaping best when second at Limerick before readily going one place better at Thurles 8 weeks ago Jumped and travelled with plenty of purpose that day and well worth a shot at this for Gordon Elliott. 19Jan Thu 25f Ch good 1 Ramillies (IRE)

Dec24 Lim 22f Ch yd-sf 2 Con’s Roc (IRE)

TFRHHHII BHA118

FORM 343211

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdler/lightly raced over fences Sold for £33,000 and successful both starts in points in late-2024 and now tackles this discipline for the ﬁrst time.Tongue tie goes on and this probably on the limit of his stamina.

Jul24 Cml 22f HcpH good 2/12 Sea The Clouds (IRE) nk Jul24 Utt 23f HcpH soft 3/7 Secret Trix 4l Jun24 Ntn 25f HcpC good 4/4 Broomﬁelds Cave (IRE) 11l

TFRHHHHH BHA143

FORM 203F-11 CD

TIMEFORMVIEWCareerhighlightwhenwinningthe2023KimMuirandwould have been placed in last year’s renewal when falling 2 out (both under this rider). Successful both starts in points this winter,beating Ryehill by 6 lengths on second of them and she’s a very classy recruit to this sphere.Leading claims Mar24 Chl 26f HcpC soft F/22 Inothewayurthinkin (IRE)Jan24 Gow 25f HcpC heavy 3/18 Ain’t That A Shame (IRE) 31/4l Dec23 Nav 25f HcpH heavy 7/16 We’llhavewan (IRE) 40l

2024: SINE NOMINE 8 11 7 Mr John Dawson 8-1 (Fiona Needham) 12 ran

Probable S.P’s: 9-2 Angels Dawn (IRE), 5-1 Its On The Line (IRE), 13-2 Willitgoahead (IRE), 10-1 Shearer (IRE), 11-1 Ryehill (IRE), 22-1 Allmankind (GB), Music Drive (FR), 25-1 Rocky’s Howya (IRE), 28-1 Fairly Famous (IRE), 33-1 Bardenstown Lad (GB), Ontheropes (IRE), What A Glance (GB), Wonderwall (IRE), 40-1 Carnfunnock (IRE), 50-1 Angels Breath (IRE), Lift Me Up (IRE), 80-1 West of Carrig (IRE), 100-1 Haven’t Time (IRE), Plan of Attack (IRE), Take All (IRE), 200-1 Lisleigh Lad (IRE), 300-1 Au Fleuron (FR), D’Jango (FR), Go On Chez (GB)

ANGELS DAWN is the class act and her Cheltenham Festival form under Patrick King stacks up, having been successful in the 2023 Kim Muir over C&D and in the process of running well when departing 2 out bidding for the follow-up last year She ticks all the boxes and can come out on top Willitgoahead is unexposed and very interesting for Gordon Elliott after his Thurles success C&D winner Fairly Famous is a player at bigger odds while Its On The Line, second in 2023 and 2024, must be feared.

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Atribute to Roland Sapsford - 1964 - 2025

Roland was a family man, with a loving wife of 35 years, Sioban, three proud sons, Niall, Liam and Sean, who all got the chance to work by his side and travel the world with them. Roland was last at Cheltenham in 2018 with his three sons where Native River won the Gold Cup. He selected his horses before he passed for Cheltenham this year and will be cheering them on from above Love, The Sapsford’s rolandsapsford.muchloved.com

RACE SEVEN

THE MARTIN PIPE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS’ HANDICAP HURDLE

RACE DESCRIPTION

The Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, named in honour of the former trainer and father of current trainer David, is now in its fifteenth year. Run over two miles, four and a half furlongs, this race for four-year-olds and upwards which have been ofﬁcially rated 0-145 and is restricted solely to conditional jockeys.

It is the ﬁnal race of this year’s Festival - we hope you can ﬁnish it off in style by backing the winner!

BETTER DAYS AHEAD

Waterford Whispers looked to be going the best as they ran down to the final flight in last years race Quai De Bourbon appeared as the most likely danger but it was the staying on Better Days Ahead under Danny Gilligan who ran down Waterford Whispers late to sign off the 2024 Festival Ultimately, Henry de Bromheads favourite had been a touch keen for most of the way round and this cost him in the finish But little can be taken away from Better Days Ahead, who looked a real stayer

Run over two mile, four furlongs & 56 yards. 9 hurdles to be jumped

Total prize fund of £75,000 £39,022 to the winner

WINNING CONNECTIONS

Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years TRAINER

Gordon Elliott 3 winners Today Gordon saddles Wodhooh, Minella Sixo, The Enabler, Mordor & Harsh

JOCKEY

Aidan Kelly 1 winner Today Aidan rides Kopeck de Mee

Jockey J

Trainer T

Owner O

Breeder B

Sponsor S

Equipment E

HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)

for four yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £75000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £29813, 2nd £14903, 3rd £7455, 4th £3728, 5th £1860, 6th

(Penalty Value £39022.50) 6 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10.

Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (45 wins from 339 runners, 13%) runs KARAFON, KOPECK DE MEE, STORMBREAKER & TOUNSIVATOR

Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (12 wins from 66 runners, 18%) runs KARAFON, KOPECK DE MEE, STORMBREAKER & TOUNSIVATOR

1 TOUNSIVATOR (FR) (40)

Ch g Motivator - Tounsi (FR) 6 11-12

J Kieran Callaghan

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Temple Bloodstock Tounsivator Syndicate

B Jean-Claude Seroul

2 WODHOOH (FR) (90)

B m Le Havre (IRE) - Dhan (IRE) 5 11-8

J Danny Gilligan

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O The Sundowners Partnership

B Al Shaqab Racing

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

3 NO ORDINARY JOE (IRE) (34)

B g Getaway (GER) - Shadow Dearg (IRE) 9 11-5

J Freddie Gingell E Tongue Strap

T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

O Mr John P. McManus

B Sean Reilly

4 NO QUESTIONS ASKED (IRE) (23)

Ch g Ask - Fancy Fashion (IRE) 7 11-5

J Callum Pritchard

T Ben Pauling, Naunton

O Newton Ldp Ltd

B Jerry O’Connor

S Newton LDP Ltd

5 MINELLA SIXO (IRE) (27)

B g Shantou (USA) - Glorious Twelfth (IRE) 6 11-4

J Jake Coen

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Sierra Paciﬁc & Pioneer Racing

B Mary M. Brennan

6 THE ENABLER (IRE) (40)

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Nanny Stone (IRE) 6 11-3

J James Smith

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Gigginstown House Stud

B Minch & Pate Bloodstock

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

7 UNCLE BERT (GB) (27)

B g Pether’s Moon (IRE) - Azza (FR) 8 11-3

J James Turner

T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham

O James & Jean Potter Ltd

B James & Jean Potter

S Potter Group, Potters House

TFRHHHII BHA145 FORM 215100

TIMEFORM VIEW Saw off Tuesday’s Supreme third Romeo Coolio to win the Grade 2 Royal Bond at Fairyhouse in December Has only managed midfield finishes in a couple of hot Leopardstown handicaps since and will require a really smart effort under top weight.

2Feb Leo 16f HcpH soft 7/18 McLaurey (IRE) 18l

Dec24 Leo 20f HcpH gd-yd 9/20 Al Gasparo (FR) 13l

Dec24 Fai 16f Hdl yield 1/8 Romeo Coolio 2

TFRHHHHI BHA141

FORM 11111-1 CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Unbeaten in 6 runs over hurdles since joining this yard, making light of an 11-month absence as she came clear readily in mares’ handicap over C&D in December Presumably saved for this since and can make a bold bid for 7 in a row.

Dec24 Chl 20f HcpH gd-sf 1/12 Joyeuse (FR)

Jan24 Don 16f Hdl good 1/10 Max of

Dec23 Nby 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/9 Max

TFRHHHHH BHA138

FORM 030-504 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly raced 9-y-o who was second in this in 2023 and shaped a lot better than result when seventh 12 months ago Latest 21f Warwick fourth suggests he’s coming to the boil again.Worth chancing in a ﬁrst-time tongue tie.

8Feb War 21f HcpH soft 4/6 Irish Hill (GER) 2l

23Jan Hun 25f HcpH soft 7/10 Super Survivor (IRE) 30l Nov24 Nby 20f HcpH gd-sf 5/10 Impose Toi (FR) 29l

TFRHHHII BHA138

FORM 6-13121

TIMEFORM VIEW Point winner who showed useful form in bumpers last term and has won 3 of his 5 starts in novice hurdles this winter Unexposed now moving into his ﬁrst handicap but this demands further improvement.

19Feb Lud 15f Hdl gd-sf 1/10 John Barbour 2l 6Feb Hun 19f Hdl

TFRHHHII BHA137

FORM 12123F

TIMEFORMVIEWMaiden/novicehurdlewinnerwhorecordedgoodplaced eﬀorts in a pair of Graded novices in December Fourth when falling 3 out on 3m Haydock handicap debut 4 weeks ago The drop in trip isn’t sure to suit but still not discounted.

15Feb Hay 24f HcpH gd-sf F/13 One Big Bang (IRE)Dec24 Lim 23f Hdl yd-sf 3/6 The Big Westerner (IRE) 41/2l Dec24 Crk 24f Hdl soft 2/6 Pray Tell (IRE)

TFRHHHII BHA136

FORM 5-2P210 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful hurdler, winning a 2 1/2m maiden at the LeopardstownChristmasmeeting.Wellbeatenina2mhandicapthereatthe Dublin Racing Festival but this return to a longer trip may see him in a better light.

2Feb Leo 16f HcpH soft 10/18 McLaurey (IRE) 23l Dec24 Leo 19f Hdl gd-yd 1 I Am Lorenzo (IRE) s.h

Dec24 Nav 16f Hdl

TFRHHIII BHA136

FORM 3P2315 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdler who has done his winning on soft/heavy ground.Including over 3m at Haydock in January.Creditable ﬁfth of 13 back there (3m

8 KOPECK DE MEE (FR) (310)

Ch g Masterstroke (USA) - Tartinette (FR) 5 11-3

J Aidan Kelly

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mr Andre - Marcel Pommerai

9 TAPONTHEGO (IRE) (22)

B g Champs Elysees - Presenting Proform (IRE) 6 11-2

J M. P. O’Connor

T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland

O Both Sides Of The Water Syndicate

B Mr John Flavin

10 KARAFON (FR)

(40)

B g Karaktar (IRE) - Labartoli (IRE) 5 11-2

J Tiernan Power Roche

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede

B Philippe Thiriet & S.C.E.A. Haras de Pey

S The Sporting Life

11 PUSH THE BUTTON (IRE) (33)

Gr g Kingston Hill - Tara Rose 6 11-2

J Finn Lambert E Cheek Pieces

T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham

O Jimmy & Susie Wenman

B J. & S. Wenman

S Courtiers Investment Services Limited

12 ACT OF AUTHORITY (FR) (34)

B g Authorized (IRE) - Leah Claire (IRE) 7 11-1

J Lewis Saunders

T Olly Murphy, Wilmcote

O Mrs Diana L. Whateley

B Mr Franck A. McNulty

S Motaclan, Cedar Invest Limited

13 NURSE SUSAN (FR) (418)

Ch m Doctor Dino (FR) - Hembra (FR) 8 11-0

J Tristan Durrell

T Dan Skelton, Alcester

O Mr Colm Donlon

B Mr Gaetan Gilles

S TheAirAmbulanceService(Warks&Northants),Ladbrokes

DOYEN QUEST (IRE) (20)

Ch g Doyen (IRE) - Queen of Questions (IRE) 7 11-0

J Harry Atkins E Cheek Pieces

T Dan Skelton, Alcester

O Exors of the late Mr N. W. Lake

B Denis Hoban

S TheAirAmbulanceService(Warks&Northants),Ladbrokes

15 ELECTRIC MASON (IRE) (47)

B g Sandmason - Eclectica Girl 6 10-13

J Caoilin Quinn

T Chris Gordon, Winchester

O KTDA Racing and Mrs Nicola Morris

B Mountainview Stud Ltd Tipperary

S Goodwin Racing Ltd, Equestrian Fencing & Timber Ltd

16 PARK OF KINGS (IRE) (75)

TFRHHHHI BHA136 FORM 3211-1

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive over hurdles in France last spring, completingahat-trickwhendriven41/2lengthsclearin21/4mAuteuilListed race last May.Subsequently purchased by J P McManus and seemingly saved for this day since.No surprise were he to be well ahead of his mark

May24 Aut 18f Hdl - 1 Karam Le Rouge (FR) 41/2

Apr24 Nan 17f Hdl - 1 Azubah (FR) 15l

Mar24 Sen 18f Hdl - 1 Kaolak (FR) 7

TFRHHHII BHA135 FORM 2-21233 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful form, winning a 20.5f Tipperary maiden in November and good placed eﬀorts on his next 2 starts Below par when 24 lengths third in 2m Punchestown Listed novice last month but this step back up in trip should suit now handicapping.

20Feb Pun 15f Hdl soft 3/5 William Munny (IRE) 24l 18Jan Nav 16f Hdl soft 3 James’s Gate (IRE) 4l

Dec24 Leo 19f HcpH gd-yd 2 Ol Man Dingle (IRE) 43/4l

TFRHHHII BHA135 FORM 35-140

TIMEFORM VIEW French recruit who returned from 11 months oﬀ to open his account at Clonmel in December Ran to similar level when fourth in Grade 1 novice at LeopardstowninDecemberbutwellbeateninasimilarracethereattheDublinRacing Festival.Stepsbackupintripforhandicapdebut.

2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 7/10 Kopek des Bordes (FR) 45l Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 4/7 Romeo Coolio 16l Dec24 Clo 19f Hdl yield 1 Uhavemeinstitches (IRE) 21/4l

TFRHHHII BHA135

FORM 41-5P20 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper winner and went 2-3 in novice hurdles last season. Has struggled for consistency in handicaps this time round but his penultimate 3m Windsor second is solid form.

9Feb Exe 23f HcpH gd-sf 10/12 Catch Him Derry (IRE) 19l 19Jan Wdr 24f HcpH soft 2/12 Titan Discovery hd Nov24 Hay 24f HcpH soft P/15 Shoot First (IRE) -

TFRHHHII BHA134

FORM 6-01143 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Three-time winner as a novice and improved again to land 2 1/2m handicaps at Sandown and Wetherby within the space of 6 days in November Creditable eﬀorts in defeat at Aintree and Warwick since. Possible a big-ﬁeld scenario will suit this hold-up performer

8Feb War 21f HcpH soft 3/6 Irish Hill (GER) 1

Dec24 Ain 20f HcpH soft 4/9 Red Dirt Road (IRE)

Nov24 Wet 19f HcpH good 1/4 Liverpool Knight 1

TFRHHHII BHA133

FORM 124//011- CD

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly raced but talented mare, returning from an absence to win handicaps over C&D and at Lingﬁeld (23f) last winter Oﬀ a further 13 months but still no surprise were she to make her presence felt.

Jan24 Lin 23f HcpH soft 1/10 Ramo (FR) nk Dec23 Chl 20f HcpH soft 1/10 Martha Divine 1/2l Nov23 Exe 17f Ch gd-sf 7/9 Arclight 20l

TFRHHIII BHA133

FORM 1-21460 CD BF

TIMEFORM VIEW Improved again when landing a 3m course handicap in November but found out off marks in the 130s 3 times since. Needs to find some improvement for first-time cheekpieces

22Feb Kmp 21f HcpH gd-sf 7/12 Saint Anapolino (FR) 15l 2Feb Mus 23f HcpH gd-sf 6/11 Pyﬀo (IRE) 13l Dec24 Chl 23f HcpH gd-sf 4/9 Long Draw (IRE) 6

TFRHHHII BHA132

FORM 0-21351

TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper winner who has landed maiden/novice hurdles at Fontwell this winter Useful eﬀort when 9 lengths ﬁfth of 7 in Grade 1 Challow at Newbury (20.5f,good to soft) in December Potential improver in handicaps

26Jan Fon 19f Hdl soft 1/3 Cauvicourt (FR)

B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - I’m All You Need (IRE) 7 10-13

J Conor Stone-Walsh E Tongue Strap

T Paul Nolan, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mrs Marilyn Syme

S Softco Ltd

TFRHHHHI BHA132

FORM 061022 D

TIMEFORM VIEW Winner over 2 1/2m at Gowran in October and even better form when runner-up in Listed handicaps at Naas and Leopardstown (both 2 1/2m again) at the end of 2024. Presumably saved for this since and got to be high on the shortlist.

Dec24 Leo 20f HcpH gd-yd 2/20 Al Gasparo (FR)

17 RAGLAN ROAD (IRE) (55)

B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Akiliyna (IRE) 7 10-12

J Gavin Brouder

T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland

O Mr John P. McManus

B Mr Ciaran Byrne

18 FLASH COLLONGES (FR) (321)

B g Saddler Maker (IRE) - Prouesse Collonges (FR) 10 10-12

J Jack Hogan E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces

T Sophie Leech, Westbury-on-Severn

O Mr G. Thompson

B G.A.E.C. Delorme Freres

S W & S Recycling

19 PUNCTUATION (GB) (20)

B g Dansili - Key Point (IRE) 8 10-12

J Freddie Mitchell E Tongue Strap

T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

O Mr Grant Leon

B Queen Elizabeth II S Unibet

20 STORMBREAKER (GB) (40)

B g Proconsul - Shadows’ Whispers (IRE) 6 10-11

J Sean Cleary-Farrell E Hood, Tongue Strap

T W. P. Mullins, Ireland

O Bronsan Racing

B Martin Armstrong

S Lost Irish Whiskey

21 MORDOR (FR) (41)

B g Roaring Lion (USA) - Secrete (FR) 5 10-11

J T. P. Harney

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Mr Ray Stokes

B S.A.S.U. Ecurie Des Monceaux

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

22 EAST INDIA EXPRESS (IRE) (78)

B g Milan - Roztoc (IRE) 6 10-10

J Freddie Gordon

T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn

O EIC Racing & Table Five

B S. McElroy

S Unibet

23 HARSH (GB) (19)

Gr g Dark Angel (IRE) - Andry Brusselles 5 10-9

J Finn Brickley E Cheek Pieces

T Gordon Elliott, Ireland

O Gigginstown House Stud

B Gigginstown House Stud

S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud

24 WILDE ABOUT OSCAR (IRE) (633)

B g Oscar (IRE) - Baie Barbara (IRE) 10 10-7

J Dylan Johnston E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces

T Sophie Leech, Westbury-on-Severn

O Mr G. Thompson

B Miss Elizabeth Kennedy

S W & S Recycling

TFRHHHII BHA131

FORM 4451P-5

TIMEFORM VIEW Improved to win a 19f Naas handicap last March.Pulled up at Fairyhouse final start but made a sound return to action with a tongue tie added (off now) when fifth of 19 at Navan (2 1/2m) in January. Not fully exposed.

18Jan Nav 20f HcpH soft 5 Music of Tara 8l Mar24 Fai 23f HcpH heavy P/13 Mousey Brown (IRE)Mar24 Naa 19f HcpH soft 1 Kilbree Warrior (IRE) 1/2l

TFRHIIII BHA131

FORM 31F/0PP-

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chase winner for Paul Nicholls in March 2023 but lost his way badly last season and has plenty to prove back hurdling for new yard after 11 months oﬀ

Apr24 San 28f HcpC good P/20 Minella Cocooner (IRE)Mar24 Don 26f HcpC soft P/10 Does He KnowDec23 Asc 23f HcpC good 10/10 Victtorino (FR) 42l

TFRHHHII BHA131

FORM 1/055-43 C D

TIMEFORM VIEW Five-time hurdle winner for Fergal O’Brien and ended his time with that yard with victory in 2m Flat handicap at Goodwood last May.Has started out for Nicky Henderson with creditable in-frame eﬀorts at Doncaster (19.5f) and Kempton (21f) in recent months

22Feb Kmp 21f HcpH gd-sf 3/12 Saint Anapolino (FR) 6l

25Jan Don 19f HcpH gd-sf 4/7 Classic King (IRE) 71/2l

May24 Gwd 16f Hcp soft 1/7 Havaila (IRE) nk

TFRHHHII BHA130

FORM 21620

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly-raced winner over hurdles Good second in 19f Punchestown handicap at the turn of the year and possibly unsuited by the drop to 2m when well held in Leopardstown handicap last month.

2Feb Leo 16f HcpH soft 12/18 McLaurey (IRE) 26l Dec24 Pun 19f HcpH soft 2 Farmers Lodge (IRE) 11/2l Nov24 Fai 20f Hdl yield 6 Big Chou (IRE) 19l

TFRHHHII BHA130

FORM 212120

TIMEFORM VIEW In good form in the summer, winning 2 hurdles and a Flat maiden. Didn’t appear to stay 3m in a handicap at the Dublin Racing Festival on last month’s return from a break. Should ﬁnd this test more suitable.

1Feb Leo 24f HcpH soft 17/25 Perceval Legallois (FR) 38l Aug24 Bal 18f HcpH yd-sf 2 Pigeon House (IRE)

Aug24 Dpk 17f Hdl good 1 Dollar Value (USA)

TFRHHHHI BHA129

FORM 142-U11

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly-raced 5-y-o who returned to win twice in quick successionaround21fatAscotandKempton(bothgoodtosoft)inDecember Has seemingly been kept fresh for this since.Likely type and part of a strong hand for his stable.

Dec24 Kmp 21f HcpH good 1/9 King of The Road (IRE) 21/2l Dec24 Asc 21f HcpH gd-sf 1/13 Double Powerful (IRE) hd May24 Pun 19f Hdl gd-yd U/14 Gorgeous Tom (IRE) -

TFRHHIII BHA128

FORM 004600

TIMEFORM VIEW Some decent eﬀorts in handicaps to end 2024 but needs to shrug oﬀ 2 poor runs last month.The stable has more obvious candidates elsewhere.

23Feb Naa 23f HcpH heavy 19 Will The Wise (IRE) 69l 9Feb Exe 23f HcpH gd-sf 12/12 Catch Him Derry (IRE) 28l Dec24 Leo 20f HcpH gd-yd 6/20 Al Gasparo (FR) 63/4l

TFRHIIII BHA126

FORM 03P60/6- D

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful at his best for Dan Skelton butt well beaten in France in June 2023 (only run for Rebecca Menzies) and not seen since.Has cheekpieces and a tongue tie combined for the ﬁrst time. Would be a shock winner

Jun23 Cla 18f Hdl soft 6/9 Mister Champdoux (FR) 40l Mar23 Utt 23f HcpH soft 10/13 Trelawne 50l Feb23 San 23f HcpH gd-sf 6/14 Green Book (FR) 7l

DECLARED RUNNERS 26 2024: BETTER DAYS AHEAD (IRE) 6 11 7 Danny Gilligan 5-1 (Gordon Elliott) 21 ran

Stewards Note: FLASH COLLONGES: Following its run on 27/4/2024 it was reported that the horse was never travelling.

Probable S.P’s: 4-1 Kopeck de Mee (FR), 15-2 Wodhooh (FR), 12-1 East India Express (IRE), 14-1 Taponthego (IRE),18-1 No Ordinary Joe (IRE),No Questions Asked (IRE),Minella Sixo (IRE),22-1 The Enabler (IRE), Park of Kings (IRE), 25-1 Act of Authority (FR), Electric Mason (IRE), 28-1 Karafon (FR), 33-1 Punctuation (GB), Mordor (FR), 40-1 Uncle Bert (GB), Nurse Susan (FR), Raglan Road (IRE), 50-1 Tounsivator (FR), Push The Button (IRE), Doyen Quest (IRE), Stormbreaker (GB), 66-1 Flash Collonges (FR), 80-1 Harsh (GB), 150-1 Wilde About Oscar (IRE),

NO ORDINARY JOE has shaped well in the last 2 runnings of this and is selected to make it third time lucky. His ownermate Kopeck de Mee is very much an unknown quantity and it would be no surprise were he to be well ahead of his mark. Park of Kings completes a very strong hand for J P McManus and is next on the list ahead of the unbeaten Wodhooh and the selection’s stablemate East India Express

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ANCETOWIN HOSPITALITYFORTWO

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CONDITIONS

First Race 1.20 - THE JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £84405 to the winning horse The second to receive £31800, the third £15915, the fourth £7950, the fifth £3990, the sixth £1995, the seventh £990 and the eighth £510. for juvenile four yrs old. Enter by noon, January 21st and pay £185 stake, Scratch by noon, February 11th or pay £380, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £185, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 8th and pay £5400 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Weights: 11st 2lb each Fillies allowed 7lb JCB has kindly sponsored this race. The winning owner will be presented with a perpetual trophy to be held until February 1st, next year Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and member of racing staff. In addition, JCB will also present a £200 award to the member of racing staff responsible for the horse judged to 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 JCB 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 Declaration to Run will not be accepted for any horse if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether or not the horse is subsequently declared a non-runner, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) ELIMINATION: If elimination is necessary from this race, the elimination sequence shall be determined by the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code) A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 54 entries, 17 at £185, 14 at £565, 23 at £750. - Closed January 21st, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £64560; Second £26610; Third £13305; Fourth £6660; Fifth £3330; Sixth £1665; Seventh £825; Eighth £420. (Penalty Value £84405) A SEE PAGE 20 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 2.00 - THE WILLIAM HILL COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £61897 to the winning horse The second to receive £23320, the third £11671, the fourth £5830, the fifth £2926, the sixth £1463, the seventh £726 and the eighth £374. for five yrs old and upwards, which before February 24th, 2025, have Started in a minimum of five Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France. Enter by noon, February 18th and pay £125 stake, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £375, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Penalties, after February 23rd, 2025, a winner of a hurdle race 5lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. WILLIAM HILL has generously sponsored this race Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and member of racing staff A £200 award will be presented to the member of racing staff responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race A Challenge Trophy, presented by the Racegoers Club, to be held by the winning owner until February 1st, 2025. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of WILLIAM HILL. 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 will amend paragraphs 28 to 32 of the Weights and Handicapping Code and the Declaration of Jockey section of the Race Entries Code in the event that raising of the weights at the 24-hour stage proves necessary. PLEASE NOTE: The BHA has modified paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code such that a novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of five times in Hurdle in Great Britain, Ireland or France. This race will be restricted to 26 runners plus two reserves The two reserves will be nominated as R27 and R28. The procedure for the allocation and operation of the reserves protocol will be as detailed in the notice headed‘Reserves’which has been published in The Racing Calendar and which also appears in the reserves notice in the Conditions For Entry Section, accessed from the Information menu on the BHA Racing Administration Internet site (www2.racingadmin.co.uk). Trainers are reminded of the provisions of paragraph 41 of the Race Entry Code which require that they MUST notify the Racing Calendar Office IMMEDIATELY when the decision has been made not to run. This will maximise the list of runners and determine whether the weights will need to be raised. The British Horseracing Authority will modify the Rules of Racing as a consequence of providing two reserves for this race The non runner penalty will be waived for any horse which is deemed a non-runner by 1.00 p.m. on the day before the race. PLEASE NOTE: Any horse for whom a confirmation of entry has been submitted will not be permitted to declare to run if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this season’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether subsequently declared a non-runner or not, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday after Closing may be taken into account. A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race. 71 entries, 33 at £125, 38 at £500. - Closed February 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £47344; Second £19514; Third £9757; Fourth £4884; Fifth £2442; Sixth £1221; Seventh £605; Eighth £308. (Penalty Value £61897) Weights raised 2lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. SEE PAGE 28 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 2.40 - THE MRS PADDY POWER MARES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Registered as THE LIBERTHINE MARES’ STEEPLE CHASE) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £73151 to the winning horse The second to receive £27560, the third £13793, the fourth £6890, the fifth £3458, the sixth £1729, the seventh £858 and the eighth £442. for five yrs old and upwards mares only, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 120 or more by the BHA Handicapper, taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation. Enter by noon, February 11th and pay £165 stake, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £435, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Weights: 5-y-o 11st; 6-y-o and up 11st 2lb Penalties, after September 30th, 2023, a winner of a Grade 2 steeple chase 3lb Of a Grade 1 steeple chase 5lb PADDY POWER has generously sponsored this race. Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and member of racing staff responsible for the winning horse. PADDY POWER will also present a £500 award to the member of racing staff judged to be in charge of the best turned out horse in this race £50 and a sponsored jacket will be awarded to the member of racing staff responsible for each runner and £100 to the member of racing staff responsible for the winning horse All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of PADDY POWER. 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 Declaration to Run will not be accepted for any horse if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether or not the horse is subsequently declared a non-runner, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) ELIMINATION: If elimination is necessary from this race, the elimination sequence shall be determined by the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code). A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 19 entries, 8 at £165, 11 at £600. - Closed February 11th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £55952; Second £23062; Third £11531; Fourth £5772; Fifth £2886; Sixth £1443; Seventh £715; Eighth £364. (Penalty Value £73151) A SEE PAGE 36 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 3.20 - THE ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1)(Grade 1) (Registered as The SPA NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £84405 to the winning horse The second to receive £31800, the third £15915, the fourth £7950, the fifth £3990, the sixth £1995, the seventh £990 and the eighth £510. for novice five yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, January 21st and pay £185 stake, Scratch by noon, February 11th or pay £380, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £185, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 8th and pay £5400 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Weights: 11st 7lb each Mares allowed 7lb ALBERT BARTLETT (AIRDRIE) & SONS has generously sponsored this race The winning owner will be presented with a perpetual trophy to be held until February 1st, next year Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and member of racing staff Albert Bartlett will also present a £200 award to the member of racing staff 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 ALBERT BARTLETT. 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 Declaration to Run will not be accepted for any horse if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether or not the horse is subsequently declared a non-runner, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) ELIMINATION: If elimination is necessary from this race, the elimination sequence shall be determined by the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code). A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 62 entries, 18 at £185, 18 at £565, 26 at £750. - Closed January 21st, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £64560; Second £26610; Third £13305; Fourth £6660; Fifth £3330; Sixth £1665; Seventh £825; Eighth £420. (Penalty Value £84405) A SEE PAGE 45 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 4.00 - THE BOODLES CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £363999 to the winning horse The second to receive £137138, the third £68633, the fourth £34284, the fifth £17207, the sixth £8603, the seventh £4269 and the eighth £2199. for five 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, January 7th and pay £780 stake, Scratch by noon, February 4th or pay £1560, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £780, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 8th and pay £25000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 6lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 10lb Mares allowed 7lb BOODLES has generously sponsored this race Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and the member of racing staff responsible for the winning horse. The member of racing staff responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race will receive a £500 award. In addition, the member of racing staff responsible for winning horse will receive a £250 award and the member of racing staff responsible for each runner in the race will receive a £50 award and a sponsored jacket. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BOODLES. 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 Rule (F)85.2 of the Rules of Racing for the purposes of this race THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Horses will be led past the stands and then allowed to canter to the start. No confirmation of entry is required for Supplementary entries. PLEASE NOTE: A Declaration to Run will not be accepted for any horse if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether or not the horse is subsequently declared a non-runner, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) ELIMINATION: If elimination is necessary from this race, the elimination sequence shall be determined by the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code). A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 20 entries, 4 at £780, 6 at £2340, 9 at £3120, 1 at £25000. - Closed January 7th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £278417; Second £114757; Third £57378; Fourth £28721; Fifth £14361; Sixth £7180; Seventh £3558; Eighth £1811. (Penalty Value £363999.38) A SEE PAGE 56 FOR THIS RACE.

Sixth Race 4.40 - THE ST. JAMES’S PLACE FESTIVAL CHALLENGE CUP OPEN HUNTERS’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £24445 to the winning horse The second to receive £12220, the third £6110, the fourth £3055, the fifth £1530 and the sixth £765. for five yrs old and upwards, which, are qualified to run in Hunters’ Steeple Chases under the Running Requirements Code and which, after September 2022, and before February 24th, 2025, have been placed FIRST OR SECOND ON TWO OCCASIONS in a hunters’steeple chase in Great Britain or Ireland OR have WON TWO OPEN STEEPLE CHASES at Point-to-Point Meetings (i.e. Gentlemens, Ladies or Mixed Open Races) in Great Britain or Ireland OR have WON ONE OPEN STEEPLE CHASE at a Point-to-Point Meeting in Great Britain or Ireland and have been placed FIRST or SECOND in a hunters’ steeple chase. Enter by noon, February 25th and pay £60 stake, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £190, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Weights: 5-y-o 11st 10lb; 6-y-o and up 12st Mares allowed 7lb. To be ridden by Amateur Jockeys The Amateur Riders referred to above shall be Category B’ Amateur Jockeys or ‘Category C’ Qualified Riders ST JAMES’S PLACE WEALTH MANAGEMENT has generously sponsored this race The Challenge Cup is to be held by the winning owner until February 1st, next year Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and member of racing staff responsible for the winning horse, and a £200 award given to the member of racing staff judged to be in charge of 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 ST JAMES’S PLACE. 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: Any horse for whom a confirmation of entry has been submitted will not be permitted to declare to run if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether or not the horse is subsequently declared a non-runner, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 16 of the Running Requirements Code for the purposes of this race to provide that horses will be qualified to run if they are qualified in Ireland and have a Hunters Certificate currently registered by the Stewards of the Irish National Hunt Steeple Chase Committee and which has not been cancelled. The British Horseracing Authority has modified Rule (I) 10 and the Elimination and Balloting Procedures (contained in the Race Administration Code) of the Rules of Racing to provide that, if it is necessary to do so, elimination of horses from this race will be determined by the BHA Handicapper PLEASE NOTE: If more than 24 horses are declared to run in this race and elimination is necessary, priority will be given to horses which have run in Steeple Chases and Hunters’ Steeple Chases under the Rules of Racing. With this in mind, it is strongly recommended that horses qualifying to run in this race through Point-to-Points should also run in a Steeple Chase or Hunters’ Steeple Chase prior to the six-day Confirmation stage, in order to avoid elimination. The BHA Handicapper will, however, reserve the right to guarantee a place in the line-up for a maximum of one ‘wild card’ runner, should he wish to do so The decision of the BHA Head Handicapper shall be final. PLEASE NOTE: Any horse for whom a confirmation of entry has been submitted will not be permitted to declare to run if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival, which has yet to take place. (This will apply whether subsequently declared a non-runner or not, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2025 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race. 25 entries, 1 at £60, 24 at £250. - Closed February 25th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £21245; Second £10620; Third £5310; Fourth £2655; Fifth £1330; Sixth £665. (Penalty Value £24445) 2 Balloted Out Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. A HC SEE PAGE 64 FOR THIS RACE.

Seventh Race 5.20 - THE MARTIN PIPE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS’ HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)

Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £39022 to the winning horse The second to receive £17940, the third £8970, the fourth £4485, the fifth £2242 and the sixth £1117. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-145 which before February 24th, 2025, have Started in a minimum of five Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France. Enter by noon, February 18th and pay £95 stake, Confirm by noon, March 8th and pay £280, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 12th. Lowest weight 10st 2lb; Highest weight 11st 12lb Penalties, after February 23rd, 2025, a winner of a hurdle race 5lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb To be ridden by Conditional Jockeys, Overseas Jockeys eligible under Rule (B)42 and Professional Jockeys eligible to claim a weight allowance under paragraph 53 of the Weights and Handicapping Code No Jockey claims available in this race.. Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer and jockey, and a £200 award given to the member of racing staff judged to be in charge of the best turned out horse in this race The British Horseracing Authority will amend paragraphs 28 to 32 of the Weights and Handicapping Code and the Declaration of Jockey section of the Race Entries Code in the event that raising of the weights at the 24-hour stage proves necessary. PLEASE NOTE: The BHA has modified paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code such that a novice horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of five times in Hurdle in Great Britain, Ireland or France. This race will be restricted to 24 runners plus two reserves The two reserves will be nominated as R25 and R26. The procedure for the allocation and operation of the reserves protocol will be as detailed in the notice headed‘Reserves’which has been published in The Racing Calendar and which also appears in the reserves notice in the Conditions For Entry Section, accessed from the Information menu on the BHA Racing Administration Internet site (www2.racingadmin.co.uk). Trainers are reminded of the provisions of paragraph 41 of the Race Entry Code which require that they MUST notify the Racing Calendar Office IMMEDIATELY when the decision has been made not to run. This will maximise the list of runners and determine whether the weights will need to be raised. The British Horseracing Authority will modify the Rules of Racing as a consequence of providing two reserves for this race The non runner penalty will be waived for any horse which is deemed a non-runner by 1.00 p.m. on the day before the race

PLEASE NOTE: Any horse for whom a confirmation of entry has been submitted will not be permitted to declare to run if, at the time fixed for declaration, it has been declared to run in any other race at this season’s Cheltenham Festival. (This will apply whether subsequently declared a non-runner or not, unless the horse has been eliminated from a race, or declared as a reserve and not been made a non-runner.) The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including Sunday after Closing may be taken into account. A Confirmation of Entry will not be accepted for any horse for which Medical Records are not submitted to the BHA by 4th March, 2024 with a further update to be submitted by 6.00pm on the day before the race 70 entries, 29 at £95, 41 at £375. - Closed February 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £29813; Second £14903; Third £7455; Fourth £3728; Fifth £1860; Sixth £930. (Penalty Value £39022.50) 6 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. A

SEE PAGE 70 FOR THIS RACE.