THE JOCKEY CLUB
WELCOMES YOU
A very warm welcome to Cheltenham Racecourse as we open the exhilarating 2025 Cheltenham Festival Champion Day marks the beginning of four days of top-class Jump racing, and we are delighted to have you here at the Home of Jump Racing.
The Festival remains the pinnacle of the Jumps season and the ultimate stage for the great Anglo-Irish rivalry. With the Prestbury Cup once again up for grabs, the British trainers will be eager to mount a strong challenge after recent years where the Irish have held the upper hand. The tide can always turn at Cheltenham, and with homegrown talent ready to rise to the occasion, the battle to reclaim the trophy begins today.
Away from the track, we encourage racing fans to start their day by heading to The Centaur at 11.30am, where the Unibet Panel will be live to discuss the day’s races and share their expert tips. Whether you’re looking for insight into the big contests or a lively discussion on Festival form, it’s the place to be for punters keen to get ahead.
Ahead of the first race, make sure you head to the Parade Ring for 12.15pm, where the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Parade will start the day. This inspiring showcase highlights the versatility of former racehorses and the incredible second careers they embark on after racing Featuring 14 remarkable horses, including former champions and those excelling in new disciplines like dressage, eventing, and showing, the parade is a testament to the work of RoR in ensuring racehorses find fulfilling lives beyond the track.
Immediately after, we would like to invite you to join us in paying tribute to Michael O’Sullivan, the jockey who tragically passed away last month following a fall Michael’s greatest success on the track came in 2023 in the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and our opening race today will carry Michael’s name in his honour. At 12:30pm, please join us as we remember his achievements on the track and the wonderful young man he was.
From 12:40pm, the Preview Show will take place in the Parade Ring, hosted by Martin Kelly, Aly Vance, and Hayley Moore, they will be joined by racing legends and leading connections to talk through the day’s racing ahead. Laura Wright will bring the pre racing proceedings to close with a show stopping performance to officially open the 2025 Festival. Later in the afternoon, all eyes will be on the Unibet Champion Hurdle, as Constitution Hill bids to reclaim his crown. After missing last year’s Festival, Nicky Henderson’s
superstar returns to face a formidable lineup, including reigning champion State Man, along with outstanding mare, Brighterdaysahead. With the Irish challenge once again looking strong, this promises to be a battle for the ages.
For those looking to indulge in luxury, The Orchard is once again the place to be, offering a unique blend of world-class hospitality and premium entertainment. This year, we are delighted to welcome an exclusive lineup of brands, including Boodles, Aston Martin, Bottlegreen, Nyetimber, and Brookland watch company, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience As always, The Orchard is open to Club Enclosure ticket holders, including Hospitality guests, Owners and Trainers, and Cheltenham Annual Members
As we look ahead to the rest of the week, anticipation continues to build towards the races still to come. From the drama of the BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Chase to the staying test of the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle, The Festival will continue to produce unmissable moments of sporting brilliance. And on Friday, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup will take centre stage, where Galopin Des Champs bids to make history by defending his crown in jump racing’s most prestigious contest.
A huge thank you, as always, to today’s sponsors, including Sky Bet, My Pension Expert, Ultima, Unibet, Close Brothers and Hallgarten and Novum Wines. Their continued support helps make Cheltenham Festival the extraordinary event it is today.
We have limited tickets remaining across the rest of the week, with very low availability for Gold Cup Day—so act fast to witness Galopin Des Champs’ historic bid in one of the most anticipated races of the season
We hope that you will really feel the benefit of the investment and changes that the Cheltenham team have made with our customers in mind for this year’s event. These are significant and I know will make a very positive difference
Enjoy your day here at Cheltenham, the pinnacle of jump racing. We look forward to welcoming you back to this iconic sporting venue again soon.
MARTIN ST QUINTON Chairman Chief Executive
GUY LAVENDER
Races 1, 2, 5 & 6
Race 3
Race 7
Race 4
RACE STARTS
Race 1 - 1:20pm
The Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle Race (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (2m 1/2f)
Race 2 - 2:00pm
The My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Steeple Chase (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (2m)
Race 3 - 2:40pm
COURSE MAP OLD COURSE
The Ultima Handicap Steeple Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (3m 1f)
Race 4 - 3:20pm
The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle Race (Registered as The David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle) (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (2m 4f)
Race 5 - 4:00pm
The Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1) (GBB Race) (2m 1/2f)
Race 6 - 4:40pm
The Hallgarten and Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Registered as The Fred Winter) (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (2m 1/2f)
Race 7 - 5:20pm
The Princess Royal National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 2) (GBB Race) (3m 6f)
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)
Joanne Hawkins (Stewards’ Panel Chair)
Daniel Andrews
Thomas Evetts
Ali Galliers-Pratt
Chris Hill
Guy Upton
STARTERS
Robert Supple
James Stenning
William Jordan
Seamus O’Neill
JUDGES
Nick Bostock
Guy Lewis
CLERKS OF THE SCALES
Michael Roberts
Paul Champion
HANDICAPPERS
Martin Harris
Dominic Gardner-Hill
EQUINE WELFARE & INTEGRITY OFFICERS
Martin Knight
Michael Turner
Mel Baker
Rachel Barnett
Christopher Maiden
Jane Southam
Vince McKevitt
Joanna Vickers
Andrea Kelly
Lisa Cook
Graham Gray
Alec Dent
Christine Hannaford
Darren Stone
MEDICAL OFFICERS
Jon Mutimer SRMO
Jemma Rooker
Gavin Nicol
Rob Orme
Lee Humphreys
CROWD DOCTORS
Anna Keitley
Suzannah Hoult
MEDICAL CO-ORDINATOR
Kevin Dickens
VETERINARY SURGEONS
Liam Kearns SRVS
Ian Camm
Henry Tremaine
Andrew Harrison
John Campbell
Tom Campbell
Vittorio Caramello
John Williams
Laura Grey
FARRIERS
David Hall
Alex Hall
Mike Cooper
VETERINARY OFFICERS
Graham Potts
Kate Maxwell
Jessica Rainbow
Sally Taylor
COMMENTATORS
Ian Bartlett
David Fitzgerald
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 - = 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
Timeform view and TFR rating
Look
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.
Leading Trainer
The Trainer with the most wins over the four days will be presented with a perpetual trophy.
MARTIN ST.QUINTONCHAIRMAN
MAX MCNEILL
ZARATINDALL MICHAEL WAINWRIGHT
JOHN INVERDALE
MARTIN POPE MARGARETARTHUR
Ro R Pa ra de
Today’s RoR Parade
Join us at the parade ring today from 12.25pm to 12.40pm before the first race for the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Parade. This inspiring showcase highlights the versatility of former racehorses and the many paths they can take beyond racing. Thanks to the work of RoR – the official charity of British horseracing, dedicated to the welfare of retired racehorses –these horses are given the support they need to thrive in their lives after racing.
Today’s parade features 14 remarkable horses, each with their own story. Many are former champions who have excelled on the racecourse, while others have found new success in disciplines like dressage, showing, eventing, and more. No matter their size, shape, or ability, all these horses are thriving in active, fulfilling second careers.
At RoR, our mission is to safeguard the wellbeing of all former racehorses, helping them find new purpose and loving homes once they retire from racing. We provide education and support to owners of former racehorses, ensure traceability through our membership, and offer a welfare safety net for those horses facing difficult circumstances
To stimulate demand within the wider equestrian market, RoR stages a number of competition series annually across various disciplines, catering to all levels of ability, from grassroots to elite.
For more information visit: www.ror.org.uk
1. BALTHAZAR KING – ridden by Michael Andrews
21-year-old by King’s Theatre, formerly trained by Philip Hobbs Breeder – Sunnyhill Stud
Balthazar King had a distinguished racing career with 16 wins, including the Cross-Country Chase at the 2014 Cheltenham Festival. After recovering from a life-threatening injury at Aintree, he retired and enjoyed several seasons hunting with Izzi Beckett, wife of trainer Ralph. Now, as a ‘schoolmaster’ for Michael Andrews, The Jockey Club’s social media manager, he is training for low-level dressage and show jumping. Michael says: “He is the most charming, loveable, and intelligent horse.”
2. BRISTOL DE MAI – ridden by Clare Lawes
14-year-old by Saddlers Maker, formerly trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies Breeder – Jean-Yves Touzaint
Bristol de Mai retired in February 2023 following a stellar racing career and is having lots of fun in retirement with Clare Lawes He is a big character and very intelligent and has found it easy to pick up anything that is asked of him whether that be flatwork or jumping. He particularly loves trail-hunting, where he stands like a rock and enjoys watching the hounds at work. He also enjoys observing the horses on the gallops at home and leading the young horses in their early training, where he still shows plenty of exuberance, hopefully teaching them a thing or two.
3. CONEYGREE – ridden by Sara Bradstock 18-year-old by Karinga Bay, formerly trained by Mark Bradstock Breeder – Lord Oaksey
One of the leading staying chasers of his generation, Coneygree was retired from racing in February 2019. He adapted quickly to a life outside of racing and since being re-trained by Sara, Coneygree has won several RoR showing classes and twice qualified for the final of the Tattersalls RoR Show Series at Hickstead. More recently Coneygree took part in the Cotswold Team Chase ridden by Alfie Bradstock and came up the hill towards the finish taking off just like he was winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup all over again.
4. ELEGANT ESCAPE – ridden by Lily Clothier 13-year-old by Dubai Destination, formerly trained by Joe Tizzard Breeder – Jay Leahy
Elegant Escape (known affectionately as Dobby) has been with his new owner since his retirement in December 2023 and now lives on their farm with three other former racehorses He has taken to showjumping and crosscountry brilliantly, and in September 2024, he won his first Tattersalls RoR Challenge class at the Usk Show. Over the winter, he regularly trail-hunted with the local pack, the Mendip Farmers Dobby is a super chilled horse who loves hanging out with his mates in the field. Lily says: “It as an absolute privilege to have him for his second career in his forever home.”
5. KEMBOY – ridden by Rachel Sharp 13-year-old by Voix Du Nord, formerly trained by Willie Mullins Breeder – Joelle Morruzzi and Philippe Morruzzi
Kemboy retired after winning the Bobby-Jo chase in February 2023. Following an injury in training, he retired earlier than planned and was collected by his new owners in June 2023. After enjoying a long break in the field throughout the summer and autumn, he was brought back into work in December, mostly hacking, and attending training clinics, which he has thoroughly enjoyed. His future is looking bright, with plans for RoR showing, dressage, and some jumping, although it’s still early days in his retirement. Rachel says,“We are very privileged as a family to have Kemboy in his retirement, taking things slowly and carefully.”
6. MELON – ridden by Sophie Candy 14-year-old gelding by Medicean, formerly trained by Willie Mullins Breeder – Newsells Park Stud Melon joined Sophie Candy in 2022 after a very successful racing career, including four second place finishes at the Cheltenham Festival. He is a gentleman to deal with and continues to give Sophie the most wonderful days out including winning the Patty Allen challenge race together Melon has been out hunting plenty, thoroughly enjoying himself, sometimes a bit too much! He has also proven to be an able team chaser, with several wins alongside Sophie’s partner, Joe, on Team Ride Away Sophie says: “He absolutely loves life, especially splashing in the river down by the yard.”
7. MINELLA REBELLION – ridden by Katie Dashwood 11-year-old by King’s Theatre, formerly trained by Nicky Henderson Breeder – Sunnyhill Stud
A full brother to Balthazar King, Minella Rebellion did not share his sibling’s racing ability, however, he has shone in the show ring since retiring. In 2021, he was crowned Supreme Champion at the Jockey Club RoR National Championships. He went on to win the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Championship at HOYS. In 2022, he won the RoR Tattersalls Championship at Royal Windsor, was Champion Riding Horse at the Royal Three Counties, and was crowned Supreme Amateur Riding Horse at the Royal International. At HOYS 2023, he made history by winning the overall Riding Horse Championship He is the reigning Tattersalls Final Elite Champion after winning the Final at Hickstead in June 2024.
8. NATIVE RIVER – ridden by Jazmin Hosgood 15-year-old gelding by Indian River, formerly trained by Colin Tizzard Breeder – Fred Mackey
Following his retirement to Webb Hill Farm, Native River, aka Garfield, initially enjoyed a few months out in the field. Since then, he has had a busy social calendar. He has attended a school prom, the 30th Anniversary of the Rocking Horse Nursery at Newbury Racecourse, Boodles in Bond Street, and starred in numerous racecourse parades. Alongside this, he has transitioned well from racehorse to riding horse, enjoying his hacking and schooling. He thrives in his work and is a quick learner 2024 was an epic year for Native River when he was crowned the 2024 Tattersalls RoR Amateur Show Series Final Champion at Hickstead.
9. PAISLEY PARK – ridden by Gabby Jones
13-year-old gelding by Oscar, formerly trained by Emma Lavelle Breeder – M Conaghan
Following his retirement, Paisley Park was given to Katrina, Emma Lavelle’s secretary for her daughter Jazz to ride. Paisley Park adapted quickly to his new life, and had his first day’s hunting in November, jumping plenty of hedges He has proven to be versatile, turning his hoof to anything asked of him. An appearance at the Royal Bath & West Show in the Tattersalls RoR Show Series qualifiers is scheduled. Katrina says: “Andrew Gemmell is still a big part of Paisley Park’s life, and he is thrilled that Paisley Park has been invited to parade at Cheltenham today.”
10. PINEAU DE RE – ridden by Lizzie Brunt
22-year-old gelding by Maresca Sorrento, formerly trained by Dr Richard Newland Breeder – Michel Hardy
Since retiring in 2016, Pineau De Re has excelled in eventing, hunting, team chasing, dressage, and showing. He was runner-up in the RoR Horse of the Year 2022 and was a baton bearer for the 2022 Commonwealth Games Recently, we qualified for the BE100 Arena Eventing Championships, set for July 2025. Pineau has a wise look about him and is the king of the yard He loves living outside but enjoys coming in for breakfast and a morning snooze.
11. POLYDAMOS – ridden by Katy Llewellyn 16-year-old gelding by Nayef, formerly trained by Tony Carroll Breeder – Hesmonds Stud Ltd
Polydamos (aka Oliver) has been with Katy since 2017. He has excelled in the showing world, with notable successes including placing at the Tattersalls RoR Championship and London International in 2023. However, it was in 2024 when he reached for the stars, becoming Champion Racehorse at the Royal Welsh Show and Champion HOYS Hack. Katy says: “Oliver is more than a show horse; he is a part of the family He has a marvellous temperament and has been wonderful for my mental health and wellbeing. He really is one of a kind, and we have been so lucky to have found him.”
12. SAPHIR DU RHEU – ridden by Charlotte Alexander 16-year-old gelding by Al Namix, formerly trained by Paul Nicholls Breeder - Claude Duval
A Grade 1 winner at Aintree, Saphir Du Rheu has been with Charlotte Alexander since he retired from racing in 2018. Very versatile, he has risen quickly through the eventing ranks to compete at intermediate level, while in dressage he is about to start competing at medium level and is already doing well at elementary. He is also doing some show jumping, as well as team chasing. Charlotte says: “Saphy loves life and particularly performing in front of a crowd where he grows another hand tall and knows everyone is admiring him.”
13. SHARJAH – ridden by Abbie Hawkins 12-year-old gelding by Doctor Dino, formerly trained by Willie Mullins Breeder – Ecurie Haras De Beauvoir
Since retiring in 2024, Sharjah has enjoyed a holiday and now is busy trying out a bit of everything and has so far enjoyed all that he has tried. The plan is for today’s rider Abbie to show and event him, and Phoebe Hawkins to focus on dressage. He lives with three other horses and although is in the early stages of his new career, seems to be thoroughly enjoying every challenge he is faced with.
14. WONGA SWINGER – ridden by Tori Thomas 15-year-old gelding by Lucky Story, formerly trained by Sam Thomas Breeder – M and Mrs Duff and W Frewin
Wonga Swinger was trained by Sam Thomas, Tori’s husband, winning twice before retiring in 2018. Tori evented and hunted him, and in 2021, he began his successful showing career, becoming champion at Royal Windsor and Tattersalls RoR Amateur Champion at Hickstead in 2022. In 2023, Wonga Swinger was crowned the RoR Elite Showing Champion, winning both the Tattersalls Open ridden and Amateur finals In 2024, Tori gave birth to Lily in August, and remarkably, she managed to qualify for HOYS at Burghley five weeks later. They went on to become the 2024 SEIB Champion Racehorse to Riding Horse at HOYS
FA CT S AN D ST AT IS TI CS
RACE ONE
THE MICHAEL O’SULLIVAN SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE
RACE DESCRIPTION
The Grade 1 Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle is run over two miles, 87 yards and is contested by the cream of this year’s novice hurdlers. 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. All the runners in this year’s contest will carry 11st 7lb.
SLADE STEEL
The well backed Tullyhill took them along at a pretty steady gallop in last year’s opener Eventual winner Slade Steel sat keen in third in the early stages but Rachael Blackmore had settled him into a nice rhythm after jumping the first couple of obstacles The pair surged into the lead as they ran down toward the last but were tracked by Mark Walsh and Mystical Power, who jumped into the lead at the final hurdle. The pair battled up the run in but it was Slade Steel who showed a determined attitude to land the prize
GRADE 1
Run over two miles, eighty-seven 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 3 winners Today Willie saddles Funiculi Funicula, Irancy, Karbau, Karniquet, Kopek Des Bordes & Salvator Mundi
JOCKEY
Rachael Blackmore 1 winner Today Rachael rides Workahead
RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE)
for novice four 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
FORM ANALYSIS - A CLOSER LOOK
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs FUNICULI FUNICULA, IRANCY, KARBAU, KARNIQUET, KOPEK DES BORDES and SALVATOR MUNDI Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs FUNICULI FUNICULA, IRANCY, KARBAU, KARNIQUET, KOPEK DES BORDES and SALVATOR MUNDI
1 FUNICULI FUNICULA (FR) (55)
B g Storm The Stars (USA) - Fun Run (FR) 5 11-7
J Brian Hayes
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Michael A.O’Riordan/Seamus Hennessy
B Jean-Etienne Rime
2 IRANCY (FR) (116)
B g Saddex - Nassora (FR) 7 11-7
J Mark Walsh
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr John P. McManus
B Mr Guy Cherel
3 KARBAU (FR) (43)
B g Cokoriko (FR) - Unicite (FR) 5 11-7
J Sean O’Keeffe
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Barnane Stud,Partner & Temple Bloodstock
B Messrs Thomas & Emmanuel Clayeux
4 KARNIQUET (FR) (37)
Ch g Kapgarde (FR) - Queenjo (FR) 5 11-7
J Danny Mullins E Hood
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B I. Pacault, M. Pacault & A. Pacault
5 KOPEK DES BORDES (FR) (37)
B g No Risk At All (FR) - Miss Berry (FR) 5 11-7
J P. Townend E Hood
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Monabeg Investments Limited
B EARL Les Bordes de Mornay & G. Hanquiez
6 ROMEO COOLIO (GB) (74)
B g Kayf Tara - Miss Bailly (FR) 6 11-7
J Jack Kennedy
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O KTDA Racing
B Mr W. Kinsey
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
7 SALVATOR MUNDI (FR) (58)
B g No Risk At All (FR) - Stacicaya (FR) 5 11-7
J Mr P. W. Mullins E Hood, Tongue Strap
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mrs J. Donnelly
B Ms Laura Lemiere
TFRHHHII BHAFORM 2-1
TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up only start in France in 2023 and looked a very usefulprospectstartingoutfornewyardafter15monthsoffwhenareadywinnerof a Clonmel maiden (17f) inJanuary.Clearly needs topull outplenty more now sights are raised but he’s one of a host of promising ones here for the yard
15Jan Clo 16f Hdl soft 1 Hitak (FR) 17l Oct23 Aut 18f Hdl heavy 2 Dazodream (FR) 71/2l
TFRHHHII BHAFORM 31//3-1
TIMEFORM VIEW 2021 bumper winner in France who chased home Firefox/ Ballyburn on his belated return/hurdles debut last winter Absent again prior to registering a smooth success from the front in a Punchestown maiden (15.5f) inNovemberand he’san each-way playerforhis all-conqueringyard Nov24 Pun 15f Hdl good 1 Will The Wise (IRE) 9l Dec23 Fai 16f Hdl soft 3 Firefox (IRE) 14l Oct21 Dur 14f Stk - 1 Iliva des Obeaux (FR) 13/
TFRHHHII BHAFORM 2-141 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Successful on second of 2 starts in French bumpers All the better for yard/hurdles debut run at Naas in December when an authoritative winner(backedupbythetimefigure)ofaPunchestownmaiden(2m)6weeksago and he’s well worth his place in this company
27Jan Pun 16f Hdl heavy 1 Captain Ryan Matt (IRE) 16l
Dec24 Naa 19f Hdl gd-yd 4 Shuffle The Deck (IRE) 33/4l
Apr24 Mln 15f Stk - 1 Kate Countess (FR) 81/2l
TFRHHHII BHA146
FORM 22-152 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Ex-French recruit who made perfect start for current connections when forging clear in a Tramore maiden in November Next run best excused and quickly back on the up when 13 lengths second behind stablemate Kopek des Bordes 37 days ago However,hardtoenvisagehimturningthetables Hoodon.
2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 2/10 Kopek des Bordes (FR) 13l
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 5/7 Romeo Coolio 49l Nov24 Tmr 16f Hdl sf-hv 1 Downmexicoway (IRE) 11l
TFRHHHHH BHA157
FORM 1-11 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Easy winner of only start in bumpers last term and built on hurdles debut success in no uncertain terms when a striking winner of Grade 1 Brave Inca at Leopardstown (2m) 37 days ago,travelling powerfully with his jumping much more assured.Outstandingprospectand theoneto beat Hoodon.
2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 1/10 Karniquet (FR) 13l
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 1 Kawaboomga (FR) 23/4l
Mar24 Fai 16f Stk heavy 1/14 Clap of Thunder (IRE) 13l
TFRHHHHI BHA148
FORM 12-5121 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up in last season’s Champion Bumper and has looked everyinchasmartprospectinthisdiscipline,bolsteringhispositionnearthetopofthe betting for this when a clear-cut winner of Leopardstown Grade 1 (2m) over Christmas Definite claims with prospect of plenty more to come.
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 1/7 Bleu de Vassy (FR) 9l
Dec24 Fai 16f Hdl yield 2/8 Tounsivator (FR) 21/2l
Nov24 Dow 16f Hdl gd-yd 1 Ivybrook (FR) 18l
TFRHHHII BHA-
FORM 2/6-11 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Promisingeffortonjustsecondcareerstartwhenmidfieldin last season’s Triumph Hurdle before easily landing cramped odds in a Tipperary maiden (2m) in May. Got the job done without entirely convincing on return in Grade 2 Moscow Flyer in January but he remains an exciting prospect. 12Jan Pun 16f Hdl soft 1 Kel Histoire (FR) 3l May24 Tip 16f Hdl gd-yd 1 Mrs Tk (IRE) 62l Mar24 Chl 16f Hdl heavy 6/12 Majborough (FR) 17l
8 SKY LORD (GB) (58)
B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Banjaxed Girl 6 11-7
J Darragh O’Keeffe
T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
O Mr Basil Holian
B Little Lodge Farm & Rahinston Farm
9 TRIPOLI FLYER (IRE) (17)
B g Getaway (GER) - Collen Beag (IRE) 6 11-7
J Jonathan Burke
T Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham
O Mr Ismail El Magdoub
B James A. Slattery
S Imre Investments Limited
10 TUTTI QUANTI (FR) (31)
B g Chanducoq (FR) - Terebella (FR) 5 11-7
J Harry Cobden
T Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat
O Mr Colm Donlon
B E.A.R.L. Elevage Figerro & Hubert Favre
S Morson Group
11 WILLIAM MUNNY (IRE) (19)
B g Westerner - Court My Eye 7 11-7
J Sean Flanagan E Hood
T Barry Connell, Ireland
O Mr Barry Connell
B Denis and Mrs Teresa Bergin
12 WORKAHEAD (IRE) (75)
B g Workforce - Cluain Easa (IRE) 7 11-7
J Rachael Blackmore
T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
O Mr Barry Maloney
B J. H. Walsh
TFRHHIII BHAFORM 02-14 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Left debut form behind when runner-up in a Fairyhouse bumper on stable debut last February and perfect start in this sphere when easy winner of a Cork maiden (15.6f) in December Similar form when fourth behind Salvator Mundi in Gr 2 company in January and much more needed if he’s to figure 12Jan Pun 16f Hdl soft 4 Salvator Mundi (FR) 3
Dec24 Crk 15f Hdl soft 1 Kappa Jy Pyke (FR) 4
Feb24 Fai 16f Stk heavy 2 Sporting Glory (IRE) nk
TFRHHHII BHA142 FORM 12-2111 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Most progressive in bumpers last term and done nothing but improve sent hurdling this time around,taking rise in class in his stride when bringing up the hat-trick in Grade 2 Dovecote at Kempton (2m) 17 days ago Tendency to jump right a concern but he’s well worth his place. 22Feb Kmp 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/7 Miami Magic (IRE) 71/2l 2Feb Mus 15f Hdl gd-sf 1/7 Cloonainra (IRE) 11l Nov24 Mkt 16f Hdl soft 1/6 Bennettshill (IRE) 29l
TFRHIIII BHA125
FORM 22-12 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up both starts over hurdles last season and improved when going one better in 12-runner novice at Ffos Las (15.8f) in November Similarformunderapenaltywhenrunner-upatNewbury(16.3f) 31 days ago but it’s hard to envisage him getting involved here.
8Feb Nby 16f Hdl soft 2/5 Rubber Ball 1l Nov24 Fls 15f Hdl gd-sf 1/12 Diamonds For Luck (IRE) 2
Jan24 Tnt 16f Hdl soft 2/14 Joyeuse (FR)
TFRHHHII BHA147
FORM 11-3221 D
TIMEFORMVIEWWesternergeldingwhodisplayedveryusefulforminbumpers and sound start over hurdles this winter, runner-up in pair of maidens prior to opening his account with ease in Listed novice at Punchestown (2m) 19 days ago Definite place candidate for stable who took this 2 years ago Hood on.
20Feb Pun 15f Hdl soft 1/5 The Great Nudie (IRE) 15l 25Jan Fai 16f Hdl soft 2 Kawaboomga (FR) 11/2
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 2 Workahead (IRE) 7l
TFRHHHII BHAFORM 1/-31 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Won sole outing in points and confirmed hurdles debut promise when making all in 17-runner Leopardstown maiden (2m) on Boxing Day, proving 7 lengths too good for William Munny That was an impressive display (including his jumping) and respected for last year’s winning stable.
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 1 William Munny (IRE) 7l
Dec24 Nav 16f Hdl soft 3 Jasmin de Vaux (FR) 91/4l
DECLARED RUNNERS 12 2024: SLADE STEEL (IRE) 6 11 7 Rachael Blackmore 7-2 (Henry de Bromhead) 11 ran
Probable S.P’s: EVENS Kopek des Bordes (FR), 13-2 Romeo Coolio (GB), 10-1 Salvator Mundi (FR), 11-1 Workahead (IRE), 12-1 William Munny (IRE), 18-1 Irancy (FR), 28-1 Karbau (FR), Tripoli Flyer (IRE), 40-1 Funiculi Funicula (FR), Karniquet (FR), 66-1 Sky Lord (GB), 150-1 Tutti Quanti (FR)
KOPEK DES BORDES stepped forward as expected from his hurdles debut success and looked something out of the ordinary in the process when a striking winner in Grade 1 company at Leopardstown in February. Open to further progress, he’s fancied to provide the all-conquering Mullins’ yard with their third victory in the curtain raiser since 2019. Romeo Coolio was similarly impressive when taking Grade 1 honours in December and he’s feared most. Workahead and William Munny complete the shortlist.
TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.KOPEK DES BORDES (FR) 2.ROMEO COOLIO 3.WORKAHEAD (IRE)
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GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
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.
RACE TWO
THE MY PENSION EXPERT ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE
RACE DESCRIPTION
The Grade 1 My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Steeple Chase is run over the minimum trip of two miles and features this season’s leading novice chasers, all tackling twelve demanding fences at breathtaking speed. Many great horses in the past have used this race as a stepping-stone to Champion Chase glory the following season and the Arkle is one of the highlights of the whole Festival. As is usual in a Grade 1 chase, all horses carry the same weight – 11st 7lb, except Only By Night, who as a mare, receives 7lb and thus carried 11st.
KEY TRENDS
a Grade 1 or Grade 2 over fences
LAST YEAR’S WINNER
GAELIC WARRIOR
Gaelic Warrior arrived at last year’s My Pension Expert Arkle with a few question marks over his ability to act round Cheltenham but firmly put those to bed when bolting up 12 months ago. Paul Townend kept things simple on the favourite, with the duo tracking pace-setter Matata up until the second last, where he eventually gave way. Found A Fifty took it up for a brief period but was reigned back in by Gaelic Warrior, who went onto score emphatically.
GRADE 1
Run over one mile, seven furlongs & 199 yards. 12 fences to be jumped Total prize fund of £200,000 £112,540 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 6 winners Today Willie saddles Majborough
JOCKEY Nico de Boinville 2 winners Today Nico rides Jango Baie
FESTIVAL HISTORY
The My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase was introduced to The Festival in 1969 as a replacement for the Cotswold Chase. It goes without saying that the race was named in honour of the legendary Arkle, a three-time winner of the Gold Cup in the mid-1960s.
The inaugural race, which was initially run on the second day of The Festival before being switched to its current slot in 1980, was won by the Fred Rimell-trained Chatham who was ridden by the late Terry Biddlecombe. In 1972 Fred Winter and Richard Pitman teamed up to win the Arkle with Pendil, a subsequent dual-winner of Kempton’s King George VI Chase where a race is now named in his honour 1978 Arkle winner, Alverton, certainly deserves a mention as the Peter Easterby-trained gelding is the only horse in the race’s history to go on to win the prestigious Gold Cup, a feat he achieved 12 months later when ridden by Jonjo O’Neill. Easterby was to win the Arkle twice more with Clayside in 1981 and Ryeman in 1983.
The 1991 renewal was notable for a trio of reasons. Firstly, Waterford Castle stepped into become the first sponsor of the race and secondly, the Richard Dunwoody-ridden Remittance Man provided Nicky Henderson with the first of his record seven Arkle winners. But the most noticeable fact was that Remittance Man became the first horse to go on and win the Queen Mother Champion Chase. The Arthur Moore-trained Klarion Davis achieved the same feat in 1995 and 1996
A. P. McCoy won the first of his three Arkles when partnering the Martin Pipe-trained Or Royal to victory in 1997 and he didn’t have to wait long for his second, following up on Champleve the following year, again for Martin Pipe Flagship Uberalles gave Paul Nicholls his first Arkle success in 1999 and became the third horse to follow up in the Champion Chase, while Azertyuiop gave Nicholls the double when winning both races in 2003 and 2004.
Jessica Harrington’s Moscow Flyer was a hugely popular Arkle winner for Barry Geraghty in 2002, by which time the sponsorship baton had passed to the Irish Independent newspaper A year later, Moscow Flyer was welcomed back into the Winners’ Enclosure following his success in the Champion Chase, and again in 2005 when he regained his crown
In fact, the 2000s proved a hot period for the race as, in addition to Moscow Flyer, Voy Por Ustedes for Alan King and Robert Thornton achieved the Grade 1 double in 2006 and 2007, as did Sizing Europe for Henry de Bromhead and Andrew Lynch in 2010 and 2011.
Few will forget Sprinter Sacre’s scintillating success in the 2012 Arkle, which was the Racing Post’s first year of sponsorship, and he has since gone on to establish himself as one of the all-time greats with two victories in the Champion Chase.
The same trainer and jockey teamed up with Simonsig the following year and not only did his victory mean Nicky Henderson became the joint-leading trainer in the race but Barry Geraghty became the winning most rider. Henderson has since moved out on his own as Altior gave his trainer a sixth victory in 2017 before Shishkin made it seven in 2021.
Willie Mullins’ Champagne Fever was denied by 33/1 shot Western Warhorse in 2014 but he had no such problems in the following two years as Un De Sceaux and Douvan both landed the prize for Ireland’s Champion Trainer. The brilliant Footpad gave Mullins a third success in 2018, a victory which also moved jockey Ruby Walsh alongside Barry Geraghty on four wins, while 2019’s winner, Duc Des Genievres made it four wins since 2015 for Mullins, Paul Townend in the saddle this time, recording his first Arkle triumph.
2020’s renewal was taken by a mare for the first time since Anaglogs Daughter’s 1980 triumph as Put The Kettle On emerged victorious in brave style. In 2021 Shishkin followed in the footsteps of Sprinter Sacre and Altior to win the race for top trainer Nicky Henderson. Alan King returned to the roll of honour in 2022 with Edwardstone, who gave him a third success in the race
El Fabiolo and last year’s winner Gaelic Warrior made it wins six and seven for Willie Mullins and he now sits just one behind leading trainer Nicky Henderson
for novice five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £200000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £86080, 2nd £35480, 3rd £17740, 4th £8880, 5th £4440. (Penalty Value £112540)
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Breeder B
Sponsor S
Equipment E
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs MAJBOROUGH
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs MAJBOROUGH
Fancy That: N Henderson won this race in 2017 and 2021. The stable runs JANGO BAIE today. W P Mullins won this race in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2023 and 2024. The stable runs MAJBOROUGH today.
1 JANGO BAIE (FR) (38)
B g Tiger Groom - Tenessee (FR) 6 11-7
J Nico de Boinville
T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn
O Countrywide Park Homes Ltd
B Mr Andre Jean Belloir et al
S Countrywide Park Homes and Luxury Lodges
2 L’EAU DU SUD (FR) (31)
Gr g Lord du Sud (FR) - Eaux Fortes (FR) 7 11-7
J Harry Skelton E Tongue Strap
T Dan Skelton, Alcester
O GMasonJHalesLHalesPHogarthSirAFerguson
B E.A.R.L. Du Moulin
S TheAirAmbulanceService(Warks&Northants),Ladbrokes
3 MAJBOROUGH (FR) (38)
B g Martinborough (JPN) - Janimone (FR) 5 11-7
J Mark Walsh
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr John P. McManus
B Hubert Langot
4 TOUCH ME NOT (IRE) (38)
Br g Malinas (GER) - Mini Shan (IRE) 6 11-7
J Jack Kennedy
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B Leonard Flynn
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
5 ONLY BY NIGHT (IRE) (30)
B m Affinisea (IRE) - Leyhill (IRE) 7 11-0
J Keith Donoghue
T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
O Mrs J. M. Russell
B Mrs J. W. Prior-Wandesforde
TFRHHHII BHA153
FORM 1222-12 C D BF
TIMEFORMVIEWSmartnovicehurdlerlastseasonandhasquicklymadeupintoan evenbetterchaser,winninga20.5fcoursenoviceonfirstattemptbeforegoingdownonly narrowly to Handstands in the Grade 1 Scilly Isles at Sandown (2 1/2m) 38 days ago Travelswellenoughtothinkhecancopewiththisshortertrip
1Feb San 20f Ch heavy 2/4 Handstands (IRE) s.h Dec24 Chl 20f Ch gd-sf
TFRHHHHI BHA156
FORM 25-1111 CD
TIMEFORM VIEW Really exciting novice chaser who took the step up to Grade 1 level in his stride at Sandown (2m, soft; Touch Me Not second) in December and stretched his unbeaten record over fences when giving weight and a beating to subsequent Grade 2 winner Rubaud in the Kingmaker at Warwick. 8Feb War 16f Ch soft 1/4 Rubaud (FR) 1l Dec24 San 15f Ch soft 1/4 Touch Me Not (IRE) 3
Nov24 Chl 15f Ch good 1/8 Western Zephyr (IRE) 11l
TFRHHHHH BHA162
FORM 1/31-11 C D
TIMEFORM VIEW Last year’s Triumph winner who has made a seamless transition to fences,seeing off a couple of smart stablemates in a Fairyhouse maiden before proving 9 lengths too strong for Touch Me Not in the Irish Arkle at the Dublin Racing Festival.Hard to beat with further progress likely 1Feb Leo 17f Ch yield 1/6 Touch Me Not (IRE) 9l
Dec24 Fai 16f Ch gd-yd 1 Tullyhill (FR) 61
Mar24 Chl 16f Hdl heavy 1/12 Kargese (FR) 11/
TFRHHHII BHA151
FORM 41-2122 D
TIMEFORMVIEWOnlyamaidenwinasahurdlerbuthasquicklydevelopedinto a smart chaser, winning a Grade 2 at Punchestown. Good second in Grade 1s at Sandown(toL’EauDuSud)andLeopardstown(9lengthsbehindMajborough)since. Ought to give his running but his old rivals are likely to be too strong.
1Feb Leo 17f Ch yield 2/6 Majborough (FR)
TFRHHHII BHA144
FORM 30-3111 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Has made a fine start to her chasing career, landing a Cork Grade 2 and extending her unbeaten record in this sphere to 3 when landing the odds in an Exeter Listed race last month. Looks capable of even better
9Feb Exe 17f Ch gd-sf 1/5
Saint (FR) 1l Dec24 Crk 16f Ch yield 1/8 Nara (FR)
Nov24 Tip 16f Ch soft 1 Mirazur West (IRE)
DECLARED RUNNERS 5 2024: GAELIC WARRIOR (GER) 6 11 7 P Townend 2-1 (W P Mullins) 10 ran
Probable S.P’s: 4-6 Majborough (FR), 7-2 L’Eau du Sud (FR), 11-1 Jango Baie (FR), 14-1 Only By Night (IRE), 16-1 Touch Me Not (IRE)
Last year’s Triumph winner MAJBOROUGH could hardly have been more impressive in his 2 chase starts this winter (had 9 lengths to spare over Touch Me Not in a Grade 1 at the Dublin Racing Festival latterly) and can make it a perfect 3-3 over fences L’Eau du Sud is 4-4 over the larger obstacles himself, including a Grade 1 success, and is the obvious danger
RA
SRACESPONSOR
out y’ pe
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GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
THE PRESTBURY CUP
The Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse has seen a great rivalry between the home team of British-trained runners and those crossing the Irish Sea for many years.
To celebrate this rivalry, the competition between the two countries is officially titled The Prestbury Cup
The Prestbury Cup runs from the first race of the four-day meeting, through until either country has 15 winners or more.
There are a total of 28 races during The Festival.
The Prestbury Cup, named after the nearest village to Cheltenham Racecourse, will be presented to jockeys and trainers from Ireland or Britain once the winning country is confirmed. The Cup itself has been sealed with some hallowed Cheltenham turf, so the winning country will be taking a little bit of Cheltenham with them.
ANCETOWIN HOSPITALITYFORTWO
THE ULTIMA HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (PREMIER HANDICAP)
RACE DESCRIPTION
The Ultima is a Premier Handicap and is the first Handicap Steeple Chase of The Festival. The aim of a handicap is to ensure a level playing field for all - achieved by allocating different weights to each of the runners based on what they have achieved on the racecourse so far All horses possess an official BHA rating that reflects their relative abilities. The higher the rating, the bigger the weight the horse has to carry – see how top-weight Trelawne, rated 152, carries 2lb more than Broadway Boy, rated 150.
CHIANTI CLASSICO
It paid to be up with the pace in the Ultima last year, with the eventual first and second sitting just in behind the leaders Chianti Classico had jumped without fault all the way round under David Bass, having to be taken back a couple of times after jumping his way to the front down the back. He cantered into the lead after Highland Hunter gave way and despite challenges from Twig and Meetingofthewaters, he had more than enough in reserve to clear away to win. Run over three miles, one furlong. 20 fences to be jumped Total prize fund of £150,000 £84,405 to the winner
Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years
TRAINER
JOCKEY
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Breeder B
Sponsor S
Equipment E
THE ULTIMA HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE
(CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE)
for five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £150000
Weights raised 5lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
Leading course trainer (20-25): G Elliott (25 wins from 274 runners, 9%) runs SEARCH FOR GLORY and ZANAHIYR
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): L Russell (8 wins from 41 runners, 20%)
runs MYRETOWN and WHISTLE STOP TOUR
Fancy That: L Russell won this race in 2022 and 2023. The stable runs MYRETOWN and WHISTLE STOP TOUR today. D Pipe won this race in 2016 and 2017. The stable runs KING TURGEON today.
1 TRELAWNE (GB) (52)
B g Geordieland (FR) - Black Collar 9 12-0
J Tom Bellamy E Cheek Pieces
T Kim Bailey & Mat Nicholls, Cheltenham
O The Real Partnership
B Mrs S. Steer-Fowler S Electrotec Solutions LTD
2 FAROUK D’ALENE (FR) (332)
B g Racinger (FR) - Mascotte d’Alene (FR) 10 11-12
J Richie McLernon E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T Gary Brown, Swindon
O Mr Justin Carthy
B Mr Louis Couteaudier
3 BROADWAY BOY (IRE) (69)
B g Malinas (GER) - Broadway Theatre (IRE) 7 11-12
J Sam Twiston-Davies
T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham
O Mr D. M. Proos
B John Leahy
S Courtiers Investment Services Limited
4 ZANAHIYR (IRE) (115)
Ch g Nathaniel (IRE) - Zariyna (IRE) 8 11-12
J Carl Millar (5) E Blinkers, Tongue Strap
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Bective Stud
B His Highness The Aga Khan’s Studs S.C.
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
5 STAY AWAY FAY (IRE) (75)
B g Shantou (USA) - Augusta Bay 8 11-12
J Harry Cobden E Tongue Strap
T Paul Nicholls, Ditcheat
O Bell, Lyons, Hill
B Southeast Bloodstock Ltd & Owen Hickey
S Morson Group
6 VICTTORINO (FR) (24)
B g It’s Gino (GER) - Victtorie (FR) 7 11-11
J Charlie Deutsch
T Venetia Williams, Hereford
O Martians Racing
B Jean-Paul & Marie-Odile Deshayes
S Spillers Horse Feeds
7 SEARCH FOR GLORY (IRE) (37)
B g Fame And Glory - Geek Chic (IRE) 8 11-9
J Sam Ewing E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B P. Connell
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
3m 1f
TFRHHHII BHA152
FORM 23F-144
TIMEFORMVIEWLow-mileage9-y-owhowassentofffavourite(off8lblower) when let down by jumping in this race last year Returned with success in class 2 at Haydock in November and backed that up with a couple of decent efforts in premier handicaps since.Others look better treated now,though.
18Jan Hay 25f HcpC soft 4/8
Dec24 Asc 23f HcpC
TFRHIIII BHA150
FORM F//F52PP-
TIMEFORM VIEW Successful over fences as a novice, including Grade 2 in early 2022. Hasn’t convinced with his jumping in this sphere since, however, pulled up in Grand National when last seen in April (sold from Gordon Elliott £8,500 soon after).Headgear/tongue strap applied.
Apr24 Ain 34f HcpC soft P/32 I Am Maximus (FR)Mar24 Chl 23f HcpH soft P/22 Monmiral (FR)Dec23 Leo 23f HcpH heavy 2 Gaoth Chuil (IRE) nk
TFRHHHHI BHA150
FORM 135-324 C D BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Three wins in a productive novice chase campaign, including a valuable staying handicap here. Better for return when excellent second in Coral Gold Cup at Newbury but fluffed his lines back here on New Year’s Day.Worth another chance.
1Jan Chl 25f HcpC soft 4/5 Chantry House (IRE) 18l
Nov24 Nby 25f HcpC gd-sf 2/13 Kandoo Kid (FR) 13/4l Oct24 Chl 25f HcpC good 3/14 Senior Chief 12l
TFRHHIII BHA150
FORM 45-3254
TIMEFORMVIEWSmarthurdlerandsimilarmeritinchases Decentfourth in the Golden Miller at this meeting last year and ran well on handicap bow whenthirdinGalwayPlate.However,hasstruggledwithhisjumpingsinceso easy enough to pass over
Nov24 Nav 20f Hdl yield 4/8 Home By The Lee (IRE) 23l
Sep24 Lis 23f HcpC soft 5/17 Flooring Porter (IRE) 26l Aug24 Tmr 21f Ch good 2 Saylavee (IRE) 11/4l
TFRHHIII BHA150
FORM 113PP-P C
TIMEFORM VIEW Won Albert Bartlett in 2023.Better form over fences last term, winning twice, but pulled up last 3 starts, including back over hurdles (following a second breathing operation) on return over Christmas Plenty to prove now
Dec24 Wcn 24f HcpH gd-sf P/10 Thomas Mor (IRE)Apr24 Ayr 31f HcpC soft P/26 Macdermott (FR)Mar24 Chl 24f Ch soft P/6 Fact To File (FR) -
TFRHHIII BHA149
FORM 04P-311
TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive chaser who enhanced his excellent record around at Ascot when winning a couple of premier handicaps last 2 starts However,Cheltenham hasn’t quite looked his thing in 2 tries so far (pulled up in this last year).
15Feb Asc 23f HcpC good 1/11 Threeunderthrufive (IRE) nose Dec24 Asc 23f HcpC gd-sf 1/8 The Changing Man (IRE) 1/2l Nov24 Nby 25f HcpC gd-sf 3/13 Kandoo
TFRHHHII BHA147
FORM 10-1230
TIMEFORMVIEWMadesuccessfulchasedebutatGalwayinOctober Unluckynot to follow up in Grade 2 at Punchestown next time before good third in Grade 1
8 HENRY’S FRIEND (IRE) (73)
B g Shirocco (GER) - Easter Bonnie (IRE) 8 11-7
J Ben Jones E Cheek Pieces
T Ben Pauling, Naunton
O Elizabeth and Oliver Troup
B Otto Daniel Kueres
S Fitzdares
9 SEQUESTERED (IRE) (37)
B g Malinas (GER) - Glenelly Caoimhe (IRE) 7 11-6
J Jack G. Gilligan (5)
T Paul John Gilligan, Ireland
O Paul Lyons/T.C.Quinn
B J. Conroy
10 FAMOUS BRIDGE (IRE) (24)
B g Fame And Glory - Wahiba Hall (IRE) 9 11-4
J Sean Quinlan E Cheek Pieces
T Nicky Richards, Greystoke
O Hemmings Racing
B John Gallagher
S Trust Inns Limited
11 RICHMOND LAKE (IRE) (31)
B g Westerner - Chic Milan (IRE) 9 11-4
J Brian Hughes
T Donald McCain, Cholmondeley
O Hemmings Racing
B J.R. Weston
S Trust Inns Limited
12 MALINA GIRL (IRE) (18)
Br m Malinas (GER) - Western Cowgirl (IRE) 8 11-4
J Keith Donoghue
T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
O Mrs J. M. Russell
B William Kelly
13 THE CHANGING MAN (IRE) (24)
B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Bitofapuzzle 8 11-2
J Brendan Powell E Tongue Strap
T Joe Tizzard, Sherborne
O Susan and John Waterworth
B O’Sullivan Bloodstock
S Coral Racing Limited
14 HAPPYGOLUCKY (IRE) (45)
Br g Jeremy (USA) - Mydadsabishop (IRE) 11 11-2
J Jonathan Burke
T Mel Rowley, Bridgnorth
O Lady Dulverton
B Mrs Maura Canavan
S Price & Son Groundworks
15 KING TURGEON (FR) (37)
Gr g Turgeon (USA) - King’s Crystal 7 11-1
J Jack Tudor E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T David Pipe, Wellington
O Somerset Racing
B Mrs Henri Devin
S W & S Recycling
16 GRANDEUR D’AME (FR) (45)
B g Desir d’Un Soir (FR) - Sourya d’Airy (FR) 9 11-1
J Tom Cannon
T Alan King, Barbury Castle
O Syders & Burkes
B Mr Georges Lacombe
S Goodwin Racing Ltd
TFRHHHHI BHA145 FORM 11P-451
TIMEFORM VIEW Recorded a hat-trick in novice chases last season, including a Grade 2 at Ascot. Pulled up in National Hunt Chase at this meetingayearagobutlookedbetterthaneverwhenresumingwinningways at Newbury over Christmas One to consider
Dec24 Nby 25f HcpC gd-sf 1/9 Hymac (IRE) 6l
Nov24 Nby 25f HcpC gd-sf 5/13 Kandoo Kid (FR) 71
Nov24 Nby 24f HcpH good 4/4 American Sniper (IRE) 24l
TFRHHHHI BHA144 FORM 004412
TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner who came good over fences when making a winning handicap debut in this sphere at Leopardstown over Christmas Improved further when runner-up in Grade 3 handicap there since,again travelling strongly,and must be respected.
2Feb Leo 21f HcpC yield 2/16 Backtonormal (IRE) 31/4l
Dec24 Leo 24f HcpC gd-yd 1 Dorans Law (IRE) 10l
Nov24 Fai 24f Ch good 4 Croke Park (IRE) 9l
TFRHHHHI BHA142 FORM PU4-231
TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner at Haydock last term and jumping was sharpened up by the fitting of first-time headgear when resuming winning ways in Grand National Trial there last month.Respectable fourth in this last year so not taken lightly
15Feb Hay 28f HcpC gd-sf 1/9 Apple Away (IRE) 3l
Hay 25f HcpC heavy 3/9 Egbert 14l
Kel 26f HcpC gd-sf 2/7 Elvis Mail (FR) 3l
TFRHHIII BHA142
FORM F0-4232
TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to score this term but deserves plenty of credit for his consistency this season,yet to finish out of the frame from this mark.Likely to find this too competitive,however
8Feb Utt 24f HcpC soft 2/8 Monbeg Genius (IRE) 5l 18Jan Hay 25f HcpC soft 3/8 Mr Vango (IRE) 3
TFRHHHII BHA142
FORM 0254-32 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who struggled to recapture her best since fallingherelastwinter However,shetookabigstepbackintherightdirection when second of 5 in Listed mares chase at Exeter last time so she’s no forlorn hope.
21Feb Exe 24f Ch heavy 2/5 Don’t Rightly Know 1
1Jan Fai 21f Ch yd-sf 3/5 Allegorie de Vassy (FR) 32l Apr24 Per 23f Ch soft 4/5 Apple Away (IRE) 16l
TFRHHHHI BHA140
FORM 2-F2221
TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-up in 3 premier handicaps this season before finally off the mark in this sphere in an uncompetitive 4-runner Grade 2 novice at Ascot last month.Should be in the mix once more.
15Feb Asc 23f Ch good 1/4 Leave of Absence (FR) 24l
25Jan Don 23f HcpC good 2/13 Docpickedme (IRE) 21/4l Dec24 Asc 23f HcpC gd-sf 2/8 Victtorino (FR) 1/2l
TFRHHHII BHA140
FORM 21//300/-5 CD
TIMEFORMVIEW Took very well to fences in 2020/21,second in this(off 7lb higher) prior to winning Grade 3 handicap at Aintree.Generally struggled in a handful of runs since, though at least showed something to work on returning from almost 2 years off when fifth on yard debut here in January.
25Jan Chl 20f HcpC soft 5/11 Moon D’Orange (FR) 17l
Mar23 Chl 25f HcpC soft 9/23 Corach Rambler (IRE) 33l Jan23 Chl 20f HcpC soft 10/16 Midnight River 20l
TFRHHIII BHA139
FORM B-1113P C
TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken his form to a new level this season, winning first 3 starts of the campaign, including the Grand Sefton at Aintree and a valuablepothere(26f).Seemedtosulkwhenriddenwithmorerestraintthan usual upped in trip at Musselburgh 5 weeks ago so big field may not suit.
2Feb Mus 31f HcpC gd-sf P/14 Magna Sam16Jan Wcn 26f HcpC gd-sf 3/10 Collectors Item (IRE) 3l Dec24 Chl 26f HcpC gd-sf 1/8 Our Power (IRE) 3l
TFRHHHII BHA139
FORM 4UP-152
TIMEFORM VIEW Enhanced good record fresh when scoring at Chepstow on return.Better effort in premier handicaps here since when excellent close second last time,though winner did plenty wrong.Step up in trip could suit.
25Jan Chl 20f HcpC soft 2/11 Moon D’Orange (FR) s.h Dec24 Chl 20f HcpC gd-sf 5/11 Gemirande (FR) 13l Oct24 Chp 19f HcpC good 1/10 Ga Law (FR) 2l
17 CREBILLY (IRE) (32)
B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Blueberry Bramble (IRE) 8 11-0
J Jonjo O’Neill Jr.
T Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham
O Mr John P. McManus
B J. F. Mernagh
S Wasdell Group
18 KATATE DORI (FR) (17)
B g Bathyrhon (GER) - Vavea (FR) 7 10-13
J Dylan Johnston (3) E Visor, Tongue Strap
T Sam Thomas, Cardiff
O Walters Plant Hire Ltd
B Mr Paul Etienne Dupont
19 WHISTLE STOP TOUR (IRE) (45)
B g Saddex - For A While (IRE) 7 10-12
J Derek Fox
T Lucinda Russell, Kinross
O Mrs Jo Tracey,K Alexander, P&S Bryceland
B Denis Cusack
S Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
20 FRERO BANBOU (FR) (45)
B g Apsis - Lady Banbou (FR) 10 10-10
J Ned Fox (3)
T Venetia Williams, Hereford
O Mr P. Davies
B Madame Evelyne Banchereau
S Faucets Limited
21
GUARD YOUR DREAMS (GB) (17)
B g Fame And Glory - Native Sunrise (IRE) 9 10-8
J Kielan Woods E Tongue Strap
T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham
O Graham and Alison Jelley
B Little Lodge Farm & Mr & Mrs TWR Chugg
S Jelson Ltd
22 THE SHORT GO (IRE) (114)
B g Fame And Glory - Izzy du Berlais (IRE) 8 10-8
J Rachael Blackmore E Hood
T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
O Mr N. Byrne
B Louis G. Vambeck
23 MYRETOWN (IRE) (25)
B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - Miss Platinum (IRE) 8 10-3
J Patrick Wadge
T Lucinda Russell, Kinross
O Wymer & Russell
B Longrove Stud
S Ian Macleod & Co Ltd
24 STRAW FAN JACK (GB) (32)
Gr g Geordieland (FR) - Callerlilly 10 10-3
J Sean Houlihan E Cheek Pieces
T Sheila Lewis, Brecon
O Mr Graham Wilson
B Whitegate Stud
S Tote
DECLARED RUNNERS 24
TFRHHHHI BHA138 FORM 120-036
TIMEFORMVIEWDidwelloverfenceslastterm,hishighlightcomingwhen a fine second in Plate Handicap off 2lb higher at this meeting. Efforts this season suggest he’s been building up to this so big run expected.
7Feb Kmp 20f HcpC soft 6/10 El Rio (IRE) 44l 19Jan Wdr 16f HcpC soft 3/8 Matata (IRE) 13l Oct24 Chp 19f HcpH gd-sf 15/17 Josh The Boss 53l
TFRHHHHH BHA137 FORM 541121
TIMEFORM VIEW Much improved sent chasing this season, winning 3 of his 4 starts, notably when most impressive in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Kempton 17 days ago Big hike in the weights is totally justified (12lb higher) and big shout if this doesn’t come too soon.
22Feb Kmp 24f HcpC gd-sf 1/13 Hyland (FR) 15l 16Jan Wcn 26f HcpC gd-sf 2/10 Collectors Item (IRE) 3l 5Jan Chp 26f HcpC heavy 1/7 Stellar Stream (IRE) 61/2l
TFRHHHHI BHA136 FORM 13-3115
TIMEFORM VIEW Dual hurdles winner last season and this Irish point scorer is progressing very nicely over fences,supplementing his Kelso success in fine style at Ayr.Drop back in trip against him here since.This is a big test for a lightly-raced novice but his limit has probably not been reached yet.
25Jan Chl 20f HcpC soft 5/7 Jagwar (FR) 15l 2Jan Ayr 24f HcpC soft 1/5 Wasdell Dundalk (FR)
TFRHHIII BHA134
FORM 6P-6126
TIMEFORM VIEW Took advantage of reduced mark in Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle (by 1 1/4 lengths from The Changing Man),jumping well over the longest trip he’s faced. Beaten only by an unexposed one at Kempton next time but well held in Great Yorkshire at Doncaster since.
25Jan Don 23f HcpC good 6/13 Docpickedme (IRE) 28l Dec24 Kmp 24f HcpC gd-sf 2/11 Beachcomber (FR) 10l Nov24 Nwc 23f HcpC good 1/13 The Changing Man (IRE) 11/4l
TFRHIIII BHA132
FORM 143404 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Smart hurdler at his best and made a successful return/ chase debut in novices’handicap at Warwick.Has remained in form without building on that success so needs 1st time tongue strap to bring about some improvement.
22Feb Kmp 24f HcpC gd-sf 4/13 Katate Dori (FR) 27l
25Jan Chl 20f HcpC soft 7/7 Jagwar (FR) 25l
Dec24 Chl 20f HcpC gd-sf 4/11 Gemirande (FR) 93/4l
TFRHHHHI BHA132
FORM 1-5342F
TIMEFORM VIEW Sent off second favourite for the Troytown at Navan (on theback ofanexcellent inC&D handicap)onlyto unseat rider at the12th when yet to be asked for his effort. Kept fresh for this and no surprise to see him go well.
Nov24 Nav 24f HcpC yield F/18 Stuzzikini (IRE)Oct24 Chl 25f HcpC good 2/14 Senior Chief 11/4l Aug24 Kil 25f HcpC gd-yd 4 Invictus Machin (FR) 11l
TFRHHHHI BHA127
FORM F1-51F1
TIMEFORM VIEW Irish point winner Winning hurdler but built for chasing and stepped up on chase bow/return when comfortable winner of 3-runner handicap at Wetherby NonetheworseforWindsorfallwhenmakingallatKelsolatest.Thisisabig testforalightly-racednovice butremainswithpotential.
14Feb Kel 23f HcpC soft 1/4 Dare To Shout 91/2l 17Jan Wdr 24f HcpC soft F/6 Herakles Westwood (FR)Dec24 Wet 19f HcpC gd-sf 1/3 Glory And Honour (IRE) 19l
TFRHHIII BHA127
FORM 036-00P C
TIMEFORM VIEW Smart form as a novice and standout effort of an otherwise low-key campaign last season was his fine third (off 6lb higher) in the 20.6f Plate at this meeting.Has struggled in 4 subsequent starts,though.
7Feb Kmp 20f HcpC soft P/10 El Rio (IRE)Dec24 Don 23f HcpC gd-sf 9/14 Charlie Uberalles 49l Nov24 Chl 20f HcpC good 8/15 Il Ridoto (FR) 32l
2024: CHIANTI CLASSICO (IRE) 7 11 4 David Bass 6-1 (Kim Bailey) 21 ran
Stewards Note: BROADWAY BOY: Following its run on 1/1/2025 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run. KING TURGEON: Following its run on 2/2/2025 it was reported that the horse was never travelling.
Probable S.P’s: 8-1 The Changing Man (IRE), 9-1 Broadway Boy (IRE), Katate Dori (FR), 12-1 Crebilly (IRE), 14-1 Whistle Stop Tour (IRE), 16-1 Henry’s Friend (IRE), 18-1 Malina Girl (IRE), 22-1 Sequestered (IRE), Famous Bridge (IRE), Myretown (IRE), 25-1 Trelawne (GB), Victtorino (FR), Search For Glory (IRE), King Turgeon (FR), The Short Go (IRE), 28-1 Happygolucky (IRE), 40-1 Grandeur d’Ame (FR), 50-1 Stay Away Fay (IRE), Richmond Lake (IRE), 66-1 Farouk d’Alene (FR), Zanahiyr (IRE), Straw Fan Jack (GB), 80-1 Frero Banbou (FR), 100-1 Guard Your Dreams (GB)
One of the few races Britain has dominated, and they appear to hold the upper hand once again with the thriving KATATE DORI leading the charge for the home team. He continued his remarkable progress when routing his rivals in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Kempton and looks capable of defying a 12lb rise if that big effort hasn’t taken the edge off him. This has likely been the target for Crebilly after his fine second in the Plate last year, while Sequestered looks the pick of the Irish.
SRACESPONSOR
RA
out y’
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GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
Ifyou would like your message to appear here, please email Cheltenham.racecard@thejockeyclub email Cheltenham.racecard@thejockeyclub.co.uk Chelt
Happy 60th Birthday to John Moloney and to his son Jamie Moloney, happy 30th Birthday - both over here at Cheltenham today, celebrating their birthdays together with family and friends. They hail from Charleville Co Cork Ireland. Let’s hope the luck of the Irish is with them today.
RACE FOUR
THE CLOSE BROTHERS MARES’ HURDLE
RACE DESCRIPTION
The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle race, now in its eighteenth year, has largely been dominated by Willie Mullins, largely thanks to the brilliant race mare Quevega who won the race six times. This Grade 1 hurdle race, run over two miles, four furlongs and 200 yards, is designed specifically for fillies and mares. With no four-year-olds in today’s line-up, all of the runners are set to carry 11st 5lb.
LOSSIEMOUTH
Lossiemouth was given a quiet ride by Paul Townend in the early stages, before being smuggled into the race as they thundered down the back straight She was easy to pick out as the only grey in the field, as she travelled powerfully to sit behind the leaders turning for home. Townend looked supremely confident and took it up as they approached the last, landing two lengths in front. She came home in splendid isolation to win by three lengths.
GRADE 1
Run over two miles four furlongs & 200 yards. 10 hurdles to be jumped Total prize fund of £124,200 £69,887 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 Jade De Grugy, Lossiemouth & Gala Marceau
JOCKEY
Paul Townend 2 winners Today Paul rides Lossiemouth
(RegisteredasTheDAVIDNICHOLSONMARES’HURDLE)(Grade1)(GBBRACE) for four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares ™ Total prize fund £124200 Owners Prize Money. 1st £53456, 2nd £22033, 3rd £11017, 4th £5514, 5th £2757, 6th £1379, 7th £683, 8th £348. (Penalty Value £69887.34)
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Breeder B
Sponsor S
Equipment E
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs GALA MARCEAU, JADE DE GRUGY and LOSSIEMOUTH
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs GALA MARCEAU, JADE DE GRUGY and LOSSIEMOUTH
Fancy That: H De Bromhead won this race in 2020 and 2023. The stable runs JULY FLOWER today. W P Mullins won this race in 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2024. The stable runs GALA MARCEAU, JADE DE GRUGY and LOSSIEMOUTH today.
1 CASA NO MENTO (GB) (13)
B m Casamento (IRE) - Red Hibiscus 7 11-5
J Sam Twiston-Davies
T Nigel Twiston-Davies, Cheltenham
O LRK Racing & Willy Twiston-Davies
B Miss S. J. Turner
S Courtiers Investment Services Limited TFRHIIII BHA134
2 DYSART ENOS (IRE) (80)
B m Malinas (GER) - Graces Benefit (IRE) 7 11-5
J Jonathan Burke
T Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham
O The Good Stock Syndicate
B Ms Grainne Dunne
S BresBet
3 GALA MARCEAU (FR)
(31)
B m Galiway - Alma Marceau (FR) 6 11-5
J Brian Hayes E Hood
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr K. Alexander
B Guy Pariente Holding SPRL
4 JADE DE GRUGY (FR) (19)
B m Doctor Dino (FR) - Diane de Grugy (FR) 6 11-5
J Danny Mullins
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr K. Alexander
B S.C.E.A. Ecurie La Grugerie
5 JETARA (IRE) (45)
B m Walk In The Park (IRE) - Jelan (IRE) 7 11-5
J Sam Ewing E Cheek Pieces
T Mrs J. Harrington, Ireland
O Mr G. McGrath
B Gerard M. McGrath
6 JOYEUSE (FR) (31)
Gr m No Risk At All (FR) - Virfolette (FR) 6 11-5
J Nico de Boinville
T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn
O Mr John P. McManus
B Francois-Xavier Lefeuvre & Domnine de Ch
FORM 1-1P441
TIMEFORM VIEW Developed into a useful hurdler, winning 4 times including Listed event at Punchestown (16.4f) in May. Showed benefit of a recent run when easily opening her account over fences at Bangor (17.3f) 2 weeks ago but loads to find on these terms returned to hurdling.
26Feb Bgr 17f Ch heavy 1/5 Cabhfuilfungi (IRE) 16l
18Jan Asc 15f Hdl good 4/7 Take No Chances (IRE) 81/2l Nov24 Bgr 17f Ch soft 4/6 Shecouldbeanything (IRE) 16l
TFRHHIII BHA135
FORM 1/111-30 C BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Successful on each of her first 6 outings in bumpers/novice hurdles Missed Spring Festivals last term but returned from 10 months off with a good third in Greatwood Hurdle here (16.4f) in November Subdued display at Ascot a month later and this no easy assignment on first crack at this trip
Dec24 Asc 15f HcpH gd-sf 7/12 Fiercely Proud (IRE) 33l Nov24 Chl 16f HcpH good 3/15 Burdett Road 31/2l
Jan24 Don 16f Hdl good 1/9 Justus (IRE) 7l
TFRHHIII BHA145
FORM 1336-23 BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Smart mare who was runner up in the Triumph Hurdle 2 years ago Had little go right when midfield in this race 12 months ago but no match for Lossiemouth at Punchestown in May and whilst she may come on for last month’s Warwick return,others hold more pressing claims
8Feb War 21f Hdl soft 3/6 Royale Margaux (FR) 41/2l
May24 Pun 20f Hdl soft 2/5 Lossiemouth (FR) 7l
Mar24 Chl 19f Hdl heavy 6/11 Lossiemouth (FR) 28l
TFRHHHHI BHA151
FORM 1/1141-1 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Finished fourth behind Golden Ace in the mares’novice here 12 months ago but unbeaten otherwise, and her reappearance success in Gr 3 Quevega HurdleatPunchestown(20.1f)19daysagowasherbesteffortyet.Verymuchappealsas thechiefthreattoLossiemouthwithfurtherprogressanticipated.
20Feb Pun 20f Hdl soft 1/5 Mousey Brown (IRE) 6l
Mar24 Fai 20f Hdl heavy 1/17 Spindleberry (IRE) 21/4l
Mar24 Chl 16f Hdl soft 4/8 Golden Ace 4l
TFRHHHII BHA146
FORM 3-21531 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful mare who has won 3 times on Flat/over hurdles since the autumn,returning to her best equipped with first-time cheekpieces (retained here) when narrowly landing mares’Grade 2 at Doncaster (24.4f) 45 days ago This clearly tougher but not without an each-way squeak.
25Jan Don 24f Hdl gd-sf 1/6 Kateira hd
Dec24 Leo 19f Hdl gd-yd 3/8 July Flower (FR) 16l Nov24 Nav 20f Hdl yield 5/8 Home By The Lee (IRE) 25l
TFRHHHII BHA138
FORM 1/1-321
TIMEFORM VIEW Half-sister to connections’ Champion Hurdle winner Epatante who made a mockery of her opening mark when a mightily impressive winner of the hotly-contested William Hill Handicap at Newbury 31 days ago Supplemented and whilethisismuchtoughershe’sclearlyveryprogressive.
8Feb Nby 16f HcpH soft 1/17 Lump Sum (FR) 8l Dec24 Chl 20f HcpH gd-sf 2/12 Wodhooh (FR) 13/4l Nov24 Asc 15f Hdl good 3/6 Celtic Dino (FR) 61/2
7
JULY FLOWER (FR) (72)
B m Pastorius (GER) - Aurelle d’Arthel (FR) 6 11-5
J Rachael Blackmore
T Henry de Bromhead, Ireland
O Mr Duncan Angove
B Mr Hubert Monier et al
TFRHHHII BHA148
FORM P223-31 D
TIMEFORM VIEW 6-y-o mare who reached a useful level over hurdles in France(placedinGr 1)andperfectstartfornewyard/after8monthsoffwhen taking Leopardstown Grade 3 (19.8f) in December, her stamina shining through in a strongly-run race Each-way player back up in class Dec24
8 KALA CONTI (FR) (72)
B m Karaktar (IRE) - Rolibie de Vindecy (FR) 5 11-5
J Jack Kennedy
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Robcour
B Patrick Joubert & Ecurie Couderc
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
9 LOSSIEMOUTH (FR) (37)
Gr m Great Pretender (IRE) - Mariner’s Light (FR) 6 11-5
J P. Townend
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mrs S. Ricci
B Sarl Elevage Des Vallons & M. Ian Kellit
10 QUEENS GAMBLE (IRE) (37)
Ch m Getaway (GER) - Gambling Girl (IRE) 7 11-5
J Paul O’Brien
T Harry Derham, Newbury
O Mr A Frost and Mr E Galvin
B Ardmulchan Stud
S Tote
11 TAKE NO CHANCES (IRE) (52)
B m Milan - Coscorrig (IRE) 7 11-5
J Harry Skelton
T Dan Skelton, Alcester
O Mr Garry Wilson
B D. Corry
S TheAirAmbulanceService(Warks&Northants),Ladbrokes
DECLARED RUNNERS 11
TFRHHHII BHA145
FORM 215-122
TIMEFORM VIEW Likeable mare who won 3 of her 5 starts as a novice and improved again this term,successful on return at Down Royal (16.9f) in November Acquitted herself well in Grade 3 company both starts since,4 lengths second to July Flower at Leopardstown in December Still unexposed at this trip
Dec24 Leo 19f Hdl gd-yd 2/8 July Flower (FR) 4l
Nov24 Fai 16f Hdl yield 2/7 Anzadam (FR)
Nov24 Dow 16f HcpH gd-yd 1 Helvic Dream (IRE)
TFRHHHHH BHA160
FORM 11-112F CD BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Easy winner of this and a Punchestown Grade 1 last term and showed all her class when winning Gr 1 Hatton’s Grace on return in December No match for Constitution Hill at Kempton but still going with plenty of zest when falling in Irish Champion 37 days ago Tough to beatback against her own sex.
2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft F/5 State Man (FR)Dec24 Kmp 16f Hdl good 2/4 Constitution Hill
Dec24 Fai 20f Hdl yield 1/4
TFRHHIII BHA136
FORM 0/111-26 C
TIMEFORMVIEWLikeablemarewhowonall3startsasanoviceandresumedwith a good second in Gerry Fielden at Newbury (16.3f) in November Again ran well without the race getting to the bottom of her when sixth in big-field Leopardstown handicaplastmonthbut hardtoenvisageher playing alead role here.
2Feb Leo 18f HcpH soft 6/19 Vischio (IRE)
Nov24 Nby 16f HcpH gd-sf 2/13 Navajo Indy
Dec23 Tnt 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/6
TFRHHHII BHA140
FORM 431531 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful mare who bagged a 2m Wetherby Listed race at the beginning of November Found the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth at Newcastle too hot but quickly back to best, proving willing when resuming winning ways in Mares’Grade 2 atAscotin January.Minorhonoursprobablybestshecanhope forhere,though.
Jan1 Asc 15f Hdl good 1/7 Kargese (FR) 3/4l
Dec24 Chl 20f HcpH gd-sf 3/12 Wodhooh (FR) 2l Nov24 Nwc 16f Hdl good 5/7 Sir Gino (FR) 16l
2024: LOSSIEMOUTH (FR) 5 11 5 P Townend 8-13 (W P Mullins) 11 ran
Probable S.P’s: 4-6 Lossiemouth (FR), 5-1 Jade de Grugy (FR), 14-1 Joyeuse (FR), July Flower (FR), 22-1 Kala Conti (FR), 28-1 Jetara (IRE), Take No Chances (IRE), 50-1 Dysart Enos (IRE), 66-1 Gala Marceau (FR), Queens Gamble (IRE), 100-1 Casa No Mento (GB)
PLAY SMARTER
Last year’s heroine LOSSIEMOUTH hasn’t had things go to plan following her taking reappearance success in the Hatton’s Grace in December yet, re-routed here as opposed to a tilt at the Champion Hurdle, Willie Mullins’ mare very much rates the one to beat Stablemate Jade de Grugy was most impressive when successful on return in the Quevega Hurdle 19 days ago and she can pose the chief threat. Joyeuse and July Flower rate next best, with Kala Conti also making each-way appeal.
TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.LOSSIEMOUTH (FR) 2.JADE DE GRUGY (FR) 3.JOYEUSE (FR)
SRACESPONSOR
RA
out y’
find out more about s race sponsor at closebrothers.com
GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
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 stars - 12-14 4 stars – 8-11 5 stars – less than 8
The star ratings for each qualifying race are marked with the race conditions.
CURRENT STANDINGS (as of 10 March 2025) 40+ horses
I- Y
ON MON Y 17
FA CT S AN D ST AT IS TI CS
RACE FIVE
THE UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE CHALLENGE TROPHY
RACE DESCRIPTION
The fourth Grade 1 race on today’s card, the Unibet Champion Hurdle is the historic Championship race for two-mile hurdlers and is the highest-quality race of its type run anywhere in the world. The crème de la crème of Europe’s speed hurdlers will all be in the line-up chasing a first prize of £253,215. All of the runners are set to carry 11st 10lb, except Brighterdaysahead and Golden Ace who receive 7lb as mares and carry 11st 3lb.
LAST YEAR’S WINNER
STATE MAN
The absence of Constitution Hill meant it looked on paper to be a penalty kick for State Man, who had finished second to Nicky Henderson’s star back in 2023 Despite going off 2/5, he was given a serious race by Irish Point and jumping the last, the race still very much looked in the balance Eventually, his superior class prevailed to give Willie Mullins his first winner in the race since Annie Power back in 2016.
GRADE 1
Run over two miles, eighty-seven yards. 8 hurdles to be jumped Total prize fund of £450,000 £253,215 to the winner
WINNING CONNECTIONS
Trainers and Jockeys with some of the strongest records in the race over the last 10 years TRAINER Nicky Henderson 4
JOCKEY Nico de Boinville 1
FESTIVAL HISTORY
The Unibet Champion Hurdle is without doubt the most prestigious hurdle race in the calendar. Run over a distance of two miles and 87 yards, with eight flights to be jumped, the race was first run in 1927.
That inaugural race was won by Blaris, earning connections the grand sum of £365. Twelve months later, Brown Jack added his name to the Roll of Honour before switching codes to win the Queen Alexandra Stakes six times from 1929-34. Only three runners went to post in 1932 – the smallest field in the race’s history. Insurance proved victorious that day and confirmed his superiority by following up twelve months later
The post-war years saw the race’s first triple winner. Hatton’s Grace, trained by the legendary Vincent O’Brien, dominated from 1949-51. He was swiftly followed by Sir Ken who recorded a hat-trick of wins for Willie Stephenson from 1952-54 and still holds the record of being the shortest-priced winnersent off a 2/5 favourite in 1953. He was ridden by Tim Molony who with four victories is the winning most rider.
The late 60s saw the emergence of another superstar in the shape of Persian War who ruled the race for trainer Colin Davies, winning three times from 1968-1970. The 70s provided some well-known winners and even today few will need little introduction. Bula recorded back-to-back wins in 1971-72, Comedy Of Errors’ two wins in 1973 and 1975 were sandwiched around the victory of a certain Lanzarote, before Night Nurse 1976-77, Monksfield 1978-79 and Sea Pigeon 1980-81 all recorded doubles.
In 1984 Dawn Run, trained by Paddy Mullins, emerged on the scene and started re-writing the history books. That year she became only the second mare to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle – also adding the Irish and French versions, and two years later she added the Gold Cup and remains the only horse to have completed the Champion Hurdle-Gold Cup double.
Nicky Henderson’s See You Then dominated the race from 1985-87 to become the race’s fourth three-time winner.
The most recent three-time winner came in 1998-2000 when Istabraq helped launch the career of a certain Aidan O’Brien. He was odds-on to become the first four-time winner of the race in 2001 but was cruelly denied due to the entire Festival being lost to the foot-and-mouth outbreak.
In recent times, Hurricane Fly excelled in 2011 and although he missed the following year through injury, he returned in 2013 to regain his crown. He could finish only fourth in 2014 and in his final attempt at the race, he finished a gallant third behind stablemate Faugheen in 2015.
Willie Mullins also saddled the winner in 2016 as Annie Power became the first mare since Flakey Dove in 1994 and just the fourth overall to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle.
2017 and 2018 saw Nicky Henderson’s Buveur d’Air cross the line first and extend his trainer’s tally of victories in the race to seven. He fell in the 2019 renewal when bidding for the hat-trick and instead, it was JP McManus’ other representative, the Gavin Cromwelltrained Espoir d’Allen, who became the first five-year-old since Katchit in 2008 to win Epatante made it back-to-back wins for JP McManus’ in 2020 before finishing third in 2021 and second in 2022. The winner on both those occasions was the superstar mare Honeysuckle for Henry de Bromhead who had done a brilliant job with the Queen of Ireland before her retirement in 2022 Costitution Hill announced himself as the latest superstar in 2023 but was unable to follow up last year, with the race instead going to Wilie Mullins and State Man. This year we are set to see both face off once more
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Hunt H
Sponsor S
Equipment E
(CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE)
for four yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £450000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £193680, 2nd £79830, 3rd £39915, 4th £19980, 5th £9990, 6th £4995, 7th £2475. (Penalty Value £253215)
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs STATE MAN and WINTER FOG Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs STATE MAN and WINTER FOG
Fancy That: N Henderson won this race in 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2023. The stable runs CONSTITUTION HILL today. W P Mullins won this race in 2015, 2016 and 2024. The stable runs STATE MAN and WINTER FOG today.
1 BURDETT ROAD (GB) (24)
B g Muhaarar - Diamond Bangle (IRE) 5 11-10
J Sam Twiston-Davies E Tongue Strap
T James Owen, Newmarket
O The Gredley Family
B Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd
S Unex Group
2 CONSTITUTION HILL (GB)
(45)
B g Blue Bresil (FR) - Queen of The Stage (IRE) 8 11-10
J Nico de Boinville
T Nicky Henderson, Lambourn
O Mr Michael Buckley
B Mrs S. A. Noott
S Unibet
3 KING OF KINGSFIELD (IRE) (72)
B g Vadamos (FR) - Passion Planet (IRE) 7 11-10
J Danny Gilligan
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B Mr P. Turley
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
4 STATE MAN (FR) (37)
Ch g Doctor Dino (FR) - Arret Station (FR) 8 11-10
J P. Townend
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mrs J. Donnelly
B M.L. Bloodstock Ltd
5 WINTER FOG (IRE) (37)
TFRHHIII BHA150 FORM 112-132 CD
TIMEFORM VIEW Classy dual-purpose performer who won the Greatwood Handicap over C&D before a fine effort behind Constitution Hill in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. Golden Ace also had a bit too much for him in the Kingwell at Wincantonsince andhe’ssurelyplaying forplace moneyatbest.
15Feb Wcn 15f Hdl gd-sf 2/4 Golden Ace
Dec24 Kmp 16f Hdl good 3/4 Constitution Hill 9l Nov24 Chl 16f HcpH good 1/15 Be Aware (FR)
TFRHHHHH BHA175
FORM 111/1-11 CD
TIMEFORM VIEW Exceptional unbeaten hurdler who missed last year’s Festival after a couple of setbacks but has confirmed he’s still very much the one to beat in this division with wins this winter in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton and International here.Can regain his Champion Hurdle crown.
25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 1/5 Brentford Hope 3l
Dec24 Kmp 16f Hdl good 1/4 Lossiemouth (FR)
Dec23 Kmp 16f Hdl good 1/5 Rubaud (FR)
TFRHIIII BHA146
FORM 30-4225 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Acted as a pacemaker for the same connections’ Brighterdaysahead at Leopardstown in December and presumably here to perform the same role again.
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl gd-yd 5/6 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 38l
Nov24 Nav 17f Ch yield 2 Down Memory Lane (IRE) 7l Nov24 Dow 16f Hdl gd-yd 2 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 33/4l
TFRHHHII BHA168
FORM 11-1231 CD
E Cheek Pieces
B g Papal Bull - Banphrionsa (IRE) 11 11-10
J Brian Hayes
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O The Triple Lock Partnership
B Paddy O’Leary
6 BRIGHTERDAYSAHEAD (FR) (72)
B m Kapgarde (FR) - Matnie (FR) 6 11-3
J Jack Kennedy
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B Mr Francois-Marie Cottin
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
7 GOLDEN ACE (GB) (24)
B m Golden Horn - Deuce Again 7 11-3
J Lorcan Williams
T Jeremy Scott, Dulverton
O Mr I. F. Gosden
B Meon Valley Stud
S Brendon Powerwashers
TIMEFORM VIEW Top-class hurdler who took advantage of Constitution Hill’s absence to win this last year Beaten twice by Brighterdaysahead at the end of 2024 but lookedbackinformwhenwinningtheIrishChampionlasttime,althoughLossiemouth’s fallmadehistaskalotsimpler Wearsfirst-timecheekpieces
2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 1/5 Daddy Long Legs (FR) 61/2l
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl gd-yd 3/6 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 31l Nov24 Pun 16f Hdl soft 2/7 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 3/4l
TFRHHIII BHA150
FORM 143323 D
TIMEFORMVIEWSmarthurdler PickedupthepiecesforthirdbehindState Man in the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown last time and a similar outcome is almost certainly the best he can hope for
2Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 3/5 State Man (FR) 15l
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl gd-yd 2/6 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 30l
Nov24 Pun 16f Hdl soft 3/7 Brighterdaysahead (FR) 13l
TFRHHHHI BHA163
FORM 121-111 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Beaten at odds on in the Dawn Run at last year’s Festival but that’s her only defeat. Had State Man behind her when winning the Morgiana at Punchestown in November and Neville Hotels at Leopardstown over Christmas The one likely to give Constitution Hill most to do Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl
TFRHHIII BHA144
FORM 111-431 C D
TIMEFORM VIEW Unbeaten in 4 novice hurdles last season, including the Dawn Run at this meeting (beat Brighterdaysahead). Reached the frame in Grade 2 events on first 2 outings this winter prior to proving 3/4
Probable S.P’s: 8-11 Constitution Hill (GB), 9-4 Brighterdaysahead (FR), 8-1 State Man (FR), 50-1 Burdett Road (GB), 80-1 Golden Ace (GB), 250-1 Winter Fog (IRE), 300-1 King of Kingsfield (IRE)
CONSTITUTION HILL doesn’t look quite as invincible as 2 years ago but is still very much the one to beat in this division and can fend off Brighterdaysahead, who was mightily impressive at Leopardstown when last seen over Christmas. Last year’s winner State Man looks clear best of the rest.
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THE HALLGARTEN AND NOVUM WINES JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE
(REGISTERED AS THE FRED WINTER)
RACE DESCRIPTION
The Hallgarten And Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle is a Premier Handicap restricted to juveniles (four-year-olds), so many of the runners in this two miles and half a furlong race will still be very inexperienced over hurdles. As with the handicap earlier in the card, the higher the rating, the bigger the weight a horse has to carry - see how Wendrock rated 136, carries 1lb more than the 135-rated Stencil.
LARK IN THE MORNIN
Joseph O’Brien’s runner Lark In The Mornin just evaded a bad fall at the fourth hurdle, which dramatically changed the complexion of the race J J Slevin positioned on the outside and made up a frightening amount of ground between the third and second last to get himself into contention. At the top of the hill he had managed to get himself in front and once there he was not for catching, as he grabbed the rail to follow in the footsteps of previous Joseph O’Brien winner, Band Of Outlaws.
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Breeder B
Sponsor S
Equipment E
for juvenile four yrs old ™ Total prize fund £80000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £34432, 2nd £14192, 3rd £7096, 4th £3552, 5th £1776, 6th £888, 7th £440, 8th £224. (Penalty Value £45016)
Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.12 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. 2m 87y
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs MURCIA and SONY BILL
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs MURCIA and SONY BILL
Fancy That: G Elliott won this race in 2018, 2020 and 2023. The stable runs WENDROCK today. J P O’Brien won this race in 2019 and 2024. The stable runs BEYOND YOUR DREAMS and PUTURHANDSTOGETHER today.
1 WENDROCK (FR) (38)
Gr g Manduro (GER) - Linareva (IRE) 11-12
J Jack Kennedy
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B Mr Ghislain Deslandes
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
2 MURCIA (FR) (31)
B f Doctor Dino (FR) - Belle Et Chic (FR) 11-12
J Rachael Blackmore E Tongue Strap
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr K. Alexander
B SARL de Chambure Haras D’Etreham et al
3 SONY BILL (FR) (38)
B g Battle of Marengo (IRE) - Eau Tenebreuse (FR) 11-12
J P. Townend E Tongue Strap
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O The Why Knot Partnership
B Mr Stephan Hillou Lespes et al
4 STENCIL (GB) (45)
B g Masar (IRE) - Fullofwonder 11-11
J James Reveley
T N. George & A. Zetterholm, France
O Mr John P. McManus
B Eminent Kind Ltd
5 TOTAL LOOK (FR) (43)
Gr g Cloth of Stars (IRE) - Cat Nova (FR) 11-8
J Keith Donoghue E Cheek Pieces
T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
O Mr Brendan Rodgers
B EARL Mell Elevages & EARL Curie Artsam
6 PUTURHANDSTOGETHER (IRE) (34)
B g Caravaggio (USA) - Round of Applause 11-6
J Mark Walsh
T Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland
O Mr John P. McManus
B Mrs Noreen McManus
S Mr O’Brien
7 SLURRICANE (IRE) (43)
B g Kodiac - Sheikhakan (IRE) 11-2
J T. P. Harney (5)
T Ross O’Sullivan, Ireland
O Ms Eleanora Kennedy
B Al Shira’Aa Farms S.A.R.L.
TFRHHHII BHA136 FORM 310 D
TIMEFORMVIEWChasedhomeTotalLookandBeyondYourDreamsstartingout over hurdles for new yard at Navan before landing 2m Leopardstown maiden over Christmas Stiff task in Grade 1 next time and this looks more his level now handicapping.Only runner for top stable with a good record in the race
1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 7/8 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 13l Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 1 Galileo Dame (IRE) 2l Nov24 Nav 16f Hdl yield 3 Total Look (FR) 41/2l
TFRHHHHI BHA136
FORM 3-33102
TIMEFORM VIEW Signed off in France with victory in a Listed event and muchbettereffortonsecondstartfor WillieMullinswhenjustfailing atNaas last month,doing her best work at the death.That race has a good record of producing the winner of this and she’s got to be high on the shortlist.
8Feb Naa 15f Hdl soft 2 Bacchanalian nk Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 8/10 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 22l
Jun24 Aut 17f Hdl soft 1 Entourloupe (FR) 12l
TFRHHHII BHA136
FORM 14-F235 D
TIMEFORMVIEWDualwinninghurdlerinFrancewhohasrunrespectably ingradedcontestsatLeopardstownfornewyard Othershavemorepotential now but she has the tongue tie she wore across the Channel back on and anything from this yard can never be discounted.
1Feb Leo 16f Hdl soft 5/8 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 81/4l
Dec24 Leo 16f Hdl yield 3/10 Hello Neighbour (IRE) 7l Jun24 Aut 17f Hdl soft 2 Sauvignon (FR) 11/2l
TFRHHHHI BHA135
FORM 1162 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdler successful at Compiegne in May and OctoberandranacrackeronfirstgoontheseshoresintheTriumphTrialhere in January,no match for East India Dock but well clear of Torrent in third and puttinginagoodroundofjumping.Thisscenariowillsuitandhecangowell.
25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 2/10 East India Dock 10l
Nov24 Com 17f Hdl - 6 Coeur d’Amour (FR) 12l
Oct24 Com 17f Hdl - 1 Coeur d’Amour (FR) 3l
TFRHHHHI BHA132
FORM 133 D
TIMEFORM VIEW FairlyusefulFlatperformerwhohasquicklymatchedthatlevel over hurdles, successful at Navan and going close behind Quantock Hills and Terifermaherebeforecatchingtheeyewithafast-finishingthirdbehindSlurricaneat Punchestown.Fitted with cheekpieces now and big run likely
27Jan Pun 16f HcpH heavy 3 Slurricane (IRE) 2l
Dec24 Chl 16f Hdl gd-sf 3/7 Quantock Hills (FR) nk
Nov24 Nav 16f Hdl yield 1 Beyond Your Dreams (IRE) 1/2l
TFRHHHHH BHA130
FORM 312 D
TIMEFORMVIEWFairlyusefulFlatwinnerwhoisimprovingnicelyoverhurdles, seeingoffacoupleofsubsequentwinnersinbig-fieldmaidenatCorkbeforeleaving the impression he had more to offer again at Fairyhouse 5 weeks ago Bound to be suited by this sort of test for yard that took this in 2024 and 2019.
5Feb Fai 16f Hdl heavy 2 Collaborative (IRE) 1l Dec24 Crk 15f Hdl soft 1 Turn And Finish (IRE) 1
Pun 15f Hdl good 3 Coul Dreamer (IRE) 12l
TFRHHHII BHA126 FORM 32321 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Flat winner who was rewarded for his consistency with a first success over hurdles at Punchestown 6 weeks ago, though his job was made easier by Out For A Stroll pecking badly at the last (Total Look eye-catcher in third).Looks vulnerable in follow-up
8 ROBBIES ROCK (GB) (72)
B g Masar (IRE) - Sirens Rock (IRE)
11-2
J Conor Stone-Walsh (3) E Tongue Strap
T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
O Mr Sean Costine
B Orbit Performance Ltd
9 QUANTOCK HILLS (FR)
(45)
B g Sageburg (IRE) - Merka (FR)
J Harry Cobden
T Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn
O Jim and Claire Limited
B S.C.E.A Haras de St Maur
S 1Account Ltd
10 TERIFERMA (GB) (45)
Ch g Territories (IRE) - Spritzig
11-2
TFRHHHII BHA126
FORM 35014 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat winner who landed a gamble on handicap debut at Cork in December under this rider Struggled after a 14lb riseinListedhandicapatLimericknexttimeandnotseensince.Maynothave reached his limit.
Dec24 Lim 16f HcpH yd-sf 4/9 Balko d’Ange (FR) 61/2l
Dec24 Crk 16f HcpH yield 1 Wardens Whisper (IRE) 3l
Oct24 Gal 16f Hdl yd-sf 8 Messerschmitt (IRE) 16l
TFRHHHII BHA126
FORM 212115 C
TIMEFORMVIEWFairlyusefulwinnerinFranceandgoodstartforthisyard with victories at Fontwell and Cheltenham (dead-heated with Teriferma after mistakeat thelast).Heldbehind afew ofthese in the TriumphTrial back here in January but did look third best for most of the way.Wouldn’t dismiss
25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 5/10 East India Dock 34l
Dec24 Chl 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/7 -Nov24 Fon 17f Hdl good 1/8 Belcamo 7l
11-2
J Sean Bowen E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T Jack Jones, Newmarket
O Mrs Mary-Ann Middleton
B New England Stud
11 HOLY SEE (IRE) (31)
B g Night of Thunder (IRE) - Lady of The Lamp (IRE) 11-1
J Oakley Brown (5) E Cheek Pieces
T William Durkan, Ireland
O Mr William Durkan
B Airlie Stud & Mrs S. Rogers
12 TURN AND FINISH (IRE)
(39)
B g Wings of Eagles (FR) - Trap Queen (IRE) 11-1
J Paul O’Brien E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T Harry Derham, Newbury
O Michael Fiddy & Richard Fleming
B Trap Queen Partnership
S OLBG
13 LIAM SWAGGER (GB)
(18)
B g Iffraaj - Bark (IRE) 11-0
J Sam Twiston-Davies E Tongue Strap, Cheek Pieces
T James Owen, Newmarket
O The Gredley Family
B Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd
S Unex Group
14 SOLAR DRIVE (IRE) (38)
Gr g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Trimurti (USA) 11-0
J Gavin Brouder (3)
T Paul W. Flynn, Ireland
O Solar Drive Six Syndicate
B Niarchos Family
15 LUKER’S TIPPLE (IRE) (38)
B g Starspangledbanner (AUS) - High Regards (IRE) 10-13
J Sean O’Keeffe
T Andrew Kinirons, Ireland
O Rachra Partnership
B Pat & Eoghan Grogan
16 KOOL ONE (SPA) (16)
B g Kool Kompany (IRE) - Pivering 10-13
J Mr I. Ryan (7)
T Conor David Maxwell, Ireland
O Mr Kieran Ryan
B Loughtown Stud
TFRHHHII BHA126
FORM 11214 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken well to hurdling, successful twice for Joseph O’Brien last summer and dead-heating with Quantock Hills here on first run for new yard in December Held behind Stencil and Torrent in Grade 2 back here since though and looks vulnerable in this line-up Cheekpieces back on.
25Jan Chl 16f Hdl soft 4/10 East India Dock 31l Dec24 Chl 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/7 -Sep24 Lis 16f Hdl good 2 Zaynab (IRE) 4l
TFRHHHII BHA125
FORM 424 BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat winner in France who gave a decent account of himself when in the frame on first 2 starts over hurdles Not so good behind Murcia in the traditionally-informative Naas event last time but could do better now handicapping with cheekpieces tried.
8Feb Naa 15f Hdl soft 4 Bacchanalian
26Jan Naa 15f Hdl sf-hv 2 Charlus (IRE)
Dec24 Lim 16f Hdl yd-sf 4 Out For A Stroll (IRE) 3l
TFRHHHII BHA125
FORM 6S3221 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Several good runs in competitive races for Joseph O’Brien,includingasecondtoPuturhandstogetheratCork,beforehejustgot the job done for new yard at Catterick. Tongue tie/cheekpieces go on for handicap debut and he’ll need to pull out more.
31Jan Cat 15f Hdl soft 1/8 Maple nose Dec24 Crk 15f Hdl soft 2 Puturhandstogether (IRE) 11/4l Nov24 Pun 15f Hdl good 2 Coul Dreamer (IRE) 9l
TFRHHHII BHA124
FORM 112 D BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Tongue tie went on and another from the yard to thrive in juvenile hurdles, scoring at Market Rasen and Wetherby in the autumn, seeing off Static and Torrent in Listed event second occasion. Didn’t jump too great when turned over at odds on at Newbury next time but has won well on the level since.
21Feb Swl 12f Stk stand 1/6 Si Solus (IRE)
Dec24 Nby 16f Hdl soft 2/9 Believitanducan (IRE)
Nov24 Wet 16f Hdl good 1/7 Static (FR) nk
TFRHHHII BHA124
FORM 4122
TIMEFORM VIEW Fair Flat winner who took maiden at Ballinrobe in September and followed that up with good efforts from the front at Punchestown and Musselburgh. Will need a further step forward now handicapping.
1Feb Mus 15f Hdl gd-sf 2/10 St Pancras
Oct24 Pun 15f Hdl good 2 Action Plan (IRE)
Sep24 Bal 17f Hdl good 1 Kaptain Bay (IRE)
TFRHHHII BHA123
FORM 22F
TIMEFORM VIEW Fair maiden on the Flat who has made an encouraging debut in this sphere, runner-up at Punchestown and Cork and only a length down when falling at the last in Listed Musselburgh event 5 weeks ago Has the scope to progress further now handicapping.
1Feb Mus 15f Hdl gd-sf F/10 St Pancras17Jan Crk 16f Hdl yd-sf 2 Pure Steel (IRE) 13/
Dec24 Pun 16f Hdl yd-sf 2 Sainte Lucie (FR) 11l
TFRHHIII BHA123
FORM 322
TIMEFORM VIEW Fair Flat winner placed all 3 starts in juvenile hurdles this year, taking a keen hold under this rider Thrown in at the deep end for handicap debut.
23Feb Naa 15f Hdl heavy 2/5 Bacchanalian 11l 15Feb Gow 16f Hdl soft 2 Blue Lemons (IRE) 3l 26Jan Naa 15f Hdl sf-hv 3 Charlus (IRE)
17 MISTER CESSNA (FR)
(34)
B g Doha Dream (FR) - Histoire Naturelle (IRE) 10-13
J Jonathan Burke E Tongue Strap
T Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham
O Guy Henriques & Richard Gnodde
B Haras Du Hoguenet
S BresBet
18 BEYOND YOUR DREAMS (IRE) (87)
B f Fastnet Rock (AUS) - It’s My Pleasure (IRE) 10-13
J J. J. Slevin E Cheek Pieces
T Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland
O Mr John P. McManus
B Mrs Sue Ann Foley
S Mr O’Brien
19 MOUTARDE (IRE) (38)
B g Raven’s Pass (USA) - Ros Mountain (IRE) 10-12
J Callum Pritchard (5)
T Anthony Charlton, Warminster
O Mrs Kate Kenyon
B Hunting Hill Stud
S Sherborne Utilities Ltd
20 STATIC (FR) (38)
B g Clovis du Berlais (FR) - Electrostatique (FR) 10-12
J Charlie Maggs (5)
T Donald McCain, Cholmondeley
O Mr J. Fyffe
B Mme Marie Merienne , Mr Julien Merienne
S JF Kegs (Scotland) Ltd
21 HOT FUSS (IRE) (17)
B g Calyx - Natural Bloom (IRE) 10-12
J David Bass E Blinkers
T Tom Dascombe, Lambourn
O Keith, David & Stephen Trowbridge
B Sir Robert Ogden
S Route Agency Limited
22 LAVENDER HILL MOB (GB) (9)
B g Expert Eye - Whazzat
J Jamie Brace (5)
T James Owen, Newmarket
O The Gredley Family
10-11
B Stetchworth & Middle Park Studs Ltd
S Unex Group
DECLARED RUNNERS 24
TFRHHHII BHA123
FORM 3-133P2
TIMEFORMVIEWFairlyusefuljuvenilehurdlewinnerinFranceandbackto that sort of level for this yard with sights lowered when second at Ludlow in re-fitted tongue tie.Goes handicapping now and may have a bit more in the locker
5Feb Lud 15f Hdl gd-sf 2/10 Viyanni (IRE) 11/4l
Dec24 Chp 16f Hdl soft P/9 Nietzsche Has (FR)Aug24 Cla 18f Ch - 3 Lascaris (FR) hd
TFRHHHII BHA123
FORM 221 D
TIMEFORMVIEWFairlyusefulFlatwinnerandhasmadeabrightstartover hurdles, chasing home Total Look at Navan second start then opening account at Fairyhouse,losing ground at each of the last 2 but picking up well. Willneedtojumpbetterherebutgottoberespectedinfirst-timecheekpieces Dec24 Fai 16f Hdl yield 1 Slurricane (IRE)
Nov24 Nav 16f Hdl yield 2 Total Look (FR)
Nov24 Fai 16f Hdl good 2 Space Warrior (IRE) 1
TFRHHIII BHA122
FORM 41616F D
TIMEFORM VIEW Fair Flat winner in Ireland for Gavin Cromwell and started well over hurdles for this yard with victories at Kempton and Taunton. In the process of bouncing back when crashing out at the last in Listed juvenileatMusselburgh5weeksagobutwouldbeasurprisingwinnerofthis 1Feb Mus 15f Hdl gd-sf F/10 St Pancras18Jan Asc 15f Hdl good 6/7 Lulamba (FR) 33l
Dec24 Tnt 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/9 Mill Street (USA) 91/
TFRHHHII BHA122
FORM 16225B
TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner in claimers over hurdles in France and satisfactory-enough start in Britain in some of the leading juvenile races, albeit starting to feel the pinch and weakening out of the frame by the time he departed at Musselburgh last time.New yard
1Feb Mus 15f Hdl gd-sf B/10 St Pancras -
Dec24 Chp 16f Hdl soft 5/9 Nietzsche Has (FR) 19l
Nov24 Chl 16f Hdl good 2/10 East India Dock 18l
TFRHHHHI BHA122
FORM 214 D
TIMEFORM VIEW Chased home subsequent Cheltenham Grade 2 winner and Triumph fancy East India Dock on hurdle debut at Wincanton before making all at Sandown(2m).StifftaskatChepstownexttimeandsuccessfulontheFlatlastmonth (useful form).Good test at this trip will suit.Player in new headgear
22Feb Swl 16f Hcp stand 1/9 Marble Sands (FR) 3
Dec24 Chp 16f Hdl soft 4/9 Nietzsche Has (FR) 11l
Dec24 San 15f Hdl soft 1/5 Galactic Charm 31/
TFRHHHII BHA121
FORM 24133 D BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful Flat performer who has shown similar form in this sphere,scoring at Warwick in January before a solid third at Haydock. Not so great at Huntingdon recently though and his jumping probably isn’t good enough for this Handicap debut.
2Mar Hun 15f Hdl gd-sf 3/9 Aviemore 21l 15Feb Hay 15f Hdl gd-sf 3/5 Gibbs Island 18l 20Jan War 16f Hdl gd-sf 1/10 Midnight Rumble 4l
2024: LARK IN THE MORNIN (GER) 4 11 0 J J Slevin 9-1 (Joseph Patrick O’Brien) 22 ran
Probable S.P’s: 15-2 Stencil (GB), 9-1 Total Look (FR), Beyond Your Dreams (IRE), 10-1 Puturhandstogether (IRE), 11-1 Murcia (FR), 12-1 Hot Fuss (IRE), 20-1 Liam Swagger (GB), 25-1 Sony Bill (FR), Quantock Hills (FR), Turn And Finish (IRE), 28-1 Slurricane (IRE), 33-1 Wendrock (FR), Holy See (IRE), Solar Drive (IRE), Luker’s Tipple (IRE), Static (FR), 40-1 Robbies Rock (GB), Teriferma (GB), Mister Cessna (FR), 50-1 Lavender Hill Mob (GB), 100-1 Kool One (SPA), 150-1 Moutarde (IRE)
PLAY SMARTER
PUTURHANDSTOGETHER left the firm impression we’ve yet to see the best of him when second at Fairyhouse and can give Joseph O’Brien a third win in 7 runnings Amazingly for a race that has been dominated by Ireland it is one of the few this week to elude Willie Mullins but he has a strong contender in Murcia. Hot Fuss, Total Look, Beyond Your Dreams and Stencil also make the shortlist.
BRITISHBONUSSCHEME
FA CT S AN D ST AT IS TI
RACE SEVEN
THE PRINCESS ROYAL NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP NOVICES’ HANDICAP CHASE
RACE DESCRIPTION The National Hunt Chase has seen multiple alterations over the years but none so significant as the new format for 2025. Formerly a novice chase for amateur riders, this year it will be open to professional jockeys. That is not all, the race is now 0-145 handicap open to five-year-olds and upwards and as such will work like any other handicap of this type. With horses rated higher, due to carry more weight than a rival rated inferior. See how Duffle Coat is rated 145 and will carry 12st, compared to Captain Cody rated 140, who carries 11st 9lb.
KEY TRENDS
Given the vastly different look to the race, we are starting again from scratch in terms of trends and statistics. Therefore there are no trends available for this race and we will need to build up a new body of evidence
CORBETTS CROSS
The market had this race as a straight shoot out between Corbetts Cross and Embassy Gardens The pair travelled much the best throughout the contest but it was Mr Derek O’Connor aboard Corbetts Cross for Emmet Mullins who jumped their way to the front. Embassy Gardens put in poor jump at the second last, which all but ended any chance he had, although the manner in which Corbetts Cross won meant victory was never in any serious doubt.
NOVICE HANDICAP CHASE
Run over three miles, five furlongs & 201 yards. 21 Fences to be jumped
Total prize fund of £100,000 £52,030 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 3 winners Today Willie saddles Captain Cody & Klarc Kent
JOCKEY
Jack Kennedy 1 winner Today Jack rides Will Do
Jockey J
Trainer T
Owner O
Breeder B
Sponsor S
Equipment E
for novice five yrs old and upwards ™ Total prize fund £100000
Owners Prize Money. 1st £39750, 2nd £19870, 3rd £9940, 4th £4970, 5th £2480, 6th £1240. (Penalty Value £52030) 4 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. 3m 5f 201y
Leading course trainer (20-25): W P Mullins (43 wins from 343 runners, 13%) runs CAPTAIN CODY and KLARC KENT
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): W P Mullins (9 wins from 34 runners, 26%) runs CAPTAIN CODY and KLARC KENT
1 DUFFLE COAT (IRE) (49)
Gr g Alhebayeb (IRE) - Humilis (IRE) 8 12-0
J Carl Millar (5) E Cheek Pieces
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Mr Ray Stokes
B Castleton Lyons & Kilboy Estate
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
2 RESPLENDENT GREY (IRE) (45)
Gr g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Caltra Princess (IRE) 7 11-11
J Sean Bowen
T Olly Murphy, Wilmcote
O Mrs R. J. Skan
B Ms M. Kavanagh
S Motaclan
3 STUZZIKINI (IRE) (47)
B g Champs Elysees - Cordially (AUS) 7 11-9
J Sam Ewing E Blinkers
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O VCS Versatile Coating Specialist/F Foran
B Dermot Kelly
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
4 CAPTAIN CODY (IRE) (52)
B g Arctic Cosmos (USA) - Fromthecloudsabove (IRE) 7 11-9
J Danny Mullins
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O V Caldwell/A Shamoon/Mrs A Shamoon Ibgi
B R. Morrissey
5 NOW IS THE HOUR (IRE) (52)
B g Westerner - Keyaza (IRE) 8 11-8
J Keith Donoghue
T Gavin Cromwell, Ireland
O BDS Syndicate
B Mr Tom Treacy
6 HAITI COULEURS (FR) (31)
B g Dragon Dancer - Inchala (FR) 8 11-4
J Ben Jones
T Rebecca Curtis, Newport
O The Brizzle Boys
B DR V. Simon, Mrs V. Simon & Mr N. Simon
S William Hill
7 IN D’OR (FR) (38)
B g Nidor (FR) - La Dauvilla (FR) 7 11-3
J Mr David Maxwell
T Venetia Williams, Hereford
O Mr David Maxwell
B Mr C. Magnien & Mr J. Magnien
S The Fitzdares Club
TFRHHIII BHA145 FORM 1352P4 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Several solid efforts prior to opening chase account in a 3m Listed handicap at Ballinrobe last May.Bettered that when a fine second in the Galway Plate in July Off 4 months, went without usual cheekpieces (backnow)whenlastof4over20.5fatAyr49daysago Significantlyupintrip
21Jan Ayr 20f HcpC soft 4/4 El Elefante (IRE) 16l Sep24 Lis 23f HcpC soft P/17 Flooring Porter (IRE)Jul24 Gal 22f HcpC good 2/22 Pinkerton (IRE) 1/2l
TFRHHHII BHA142 FORM 2-11224
TIMEFORM VIEW Ended last season on the up over hurdles and perfect start to chase career when accounting for 5 rivals in a 2 1/2m Uttoxeter handicap in October Runner-up over 3m on next 2 starts and a drop back to 20.5f looked against him when fourth over 20.5f latest.This trip may suit him.
TFRHHHII BHA140
FORM 415310
TIMEFORM VIEW Career best when winning the valuable Troytown at Navan(3m,goodtosoft)inNovember Notinanythinglikethesameformin the Thyestes at Gowran 2 months later but this longer distance should suit.
23Jan Gow 25f HcpC sf-hv 13/18 Nick Rockett (IRE) 49l Nov24 Nav 24f HcpC yield 1/18 Lucid Dreams (IRE)
Gal
TFRHHHHI BHA140
FORM 41-0443
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful hurdle winner who has matched that form over fences this season,improving again when third (Now Is The Hour fourth) in a warm Navan maiden chase (3m, soft) last month. This increased stamina test promises to suit.On the shortlist. 18Jan Nav 24f Ch soft 3 Three Card Brag (IRE) 2
Dec24 Leo 21f Ch gd-yd 4 Dee Capo (FR) 9
Nov24 Tip 23f Ch soft 4 Sa Majeste (FR) 18l
TFRHHHHI BHA139
FORM 112-654
TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to win over fences but translated his useful hurdle ability to the larger obstacles when 4 lengths fourth (Captain Cody third) in a strong Navan maiden (3m, soft) in January. Very interesting handicap newcomer for an Irish stable with a good Cheltenham record
18Jan Nav 24f Ch soft 4 Three Card Brag (IRE) 4l
Dec24 Pun 23f Ch yield 5 Shannon Royale (IRE) 37l Dec24 Nav 20f Ch soft 6 Ile Atlantique (FR) 48l
TFRHHHHH BHA135
FORM 11-2113 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Won 25f handicap chases at Aintree and here (reopposing Transmission second) towards the end of 2024. Creditable third of 12 in Newbury handicap hurdle last month and open to further progress back chasing.Gets the vote.
8Feb Nby 24f HcpH soft 3/12 Santos Blue
Dec24 Chl 25f HcpC gd-sf 1/9 Transmission (IRE) 2
Ain 24f HcpC good 1/4 Uncle Bert
TFRHHHII BHA134
FORM 12-0113
TIMEFORM VIEW French import who has improved for the switch to fences, scoring cosily in handicaps (around 3m) at Taunton and Ascot this winter Improvedagainwhen4lengthsthirdof9atSandown(3m,heavy)last month but stamina isn’t assured over this far.
(IRE) 4l
8 HASTHING (FR) (24)
B g Konig Turf (GER) - Trendy (FR) 8 11-2
J Jonjo O’Neill Jr.
T Jonjo & A.J O’Neill, Cheltenham
O Mr John P. McManus
B Guillaume Gosselin & Pierre Emmanuel Gui
S Wasdell Group
9 TRANSMISSION (IRE) (45)
B g Doyen (IRE) - Ellie (IRE) 8 11-2
J Mr P. W. Mullins E Cheek Pieces
T Neil Mulholland, Limpley Stoke
O Paul McKeon
B Ms Johanna Dunne
S Tote
10 NO TIME TO WAIT (IRE) (38)
B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Stephanie Frances (IRE) 7 11-2
J Darragh O’Keeffe E Tongue Strap
T John McConnell, Ireland
O Ms Caroline Ahearn
B M. H. Sport Horses
11 WILL DO (IRE) (19)
B g Walk In The Park (IRE) - Alleygrove Lass (IRE) 8 11-1
J Jack Kennedy E Blinkers
T Gordon Elliott, Ireland
O Gigginstown House Stud
B Mr Alan Loughlin
S Gordon Elliott, Bective Stud
12 ROCK MY WAY (IRE) (45)
B g Getaway (GER) - Far Rock (IRE) 7 11-1
J Brendan Powell E Blinkers, Tongue Strap
T Joe Tizzard, Sherborne
O J P Romans & Nick Case
B Rockvale Stud
S Coral Racing Limited
13 GERICAULT
ROQUE
(FR) (53)
B g Montmartre (FR) - Nijinska Delaroque (FR) 9 11-0
J Jack Tudor
T David Pipe, Wellington
E Tongue Strap
O Prof Caroline Tisdall and Bryan Drew
B Mme Genevieve Mongin
S W & S Recycling
14 HERAKLES WESTWOOD (FR) (31)
B g Saddler Maker (IRE) - Une Histoire (FR) 8 10-12
J Harry Cobden
T Warren Greatrex, Upper Lambourn
O Herakles Westwood AC
B Mrs Karine Perreau
S 1Account Ltd
15 KLARC KENT (FR) (19)
B g Spanish Moon (USA) - Kryptonie (FR) 9 10-10
J Sean O’Keeffe E Cheek Pieces
T W. P. Mullins, Ireland
O Mr Colm O’Connell
B Sylvie Crepin Berard & Laurent Berard
16 KYNTARA (GB) (53)
TFRHHHII BHA133
FORM 06-4114 BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken very well to fences this winter,bagging a pair of handicaps at Windsor either side of Christmas Proved himself at 3m when fourth in a valuable handicap at Ascot in February. Another 6f further to go now,though.
15Feb Asc 23f HcpC good 4/11 Victtorino (FR) 43/4l
17Jan Wdr 22f HcpC soft 1/14 Tyre Kicker (FR) 31/
Dec24 Wdr 20f HcpC gd-sf 1/9 Duhallow Tommy (IRE) 3
TFRHHHHI BHA133
FORM 01-2126 C
TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken well to fences here this season, including a 25f handicap win in November Bettered that form when second to Haiti Couleurs in a novice handicap the following month. Stiff task back hurdling in the Grade 2 Cleeve in January but much better can be expected back chasing.Player
25Jan Chl 23f Hdl soft 6/6 Gowel Road (IRE) 18l Dec24 Chl 25f HcpC gd-sf 2/9 Haiti Couleurs (FR)
Nov24 Chl 25f HcpC good 1/11 Java
TFRHHHII BHA133 FORM 314-P43
TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper/hurdles winner for Gordon Elliott. Improved effort over fences for new yard when length third in 3m Musselburgh handicap last month.First-time tongue tie worn on that occasion is retained. Up in trip
1Feb Mus 23f HcpC gd-sf 3/6 One More Stroke (IRE) 1l
Nov24 Dow 19f Ch gd-yd 4 Firefox (IRE) 15l Jul24 Kil 25f Ch gd-yd P Bardenstown Lad -
TFRHHHHI BHA132
FORM 332562
TIMEFORM VIEW Yet to win over fences but latest second of 17 in a strong Punchestown handicap (27f,soft) was a really good effort.The mount of Jack Kennedy from the yard’s trio Enters calculations
20Feb Pun 27f HcpC soft 2/17 Fortunedefortunata (IRE) 21/4l
23Jan Gow 25f HcpC sf-hv 6/18 Nick Rockett (IRE) 31l
Dec24 Leo 24f HcpC gd-yd 5/27 Perceval Legallois (FR) 13l
TFRHHHII BHA132
FORM 32-3142 C BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful chaser who won a 3m Doncaster novice handicap for Anthony Charlton in November Ended his time with that stable with a below-form fourthatNewburyoverChristmasbutbackonformfornewyardwhenrunner-upback atDoncaster (3magain)inJanuary.First-timeblinkersreplace cheekpieces
25Jan Don 23f HcpC good 2/5 Weveallbeencaught (IRE) 91/2l Dec24 Nby 22f HcpC gd-sf 4/8 Inthewaterside (FR) 16l
Nov24 Don 23f HcpC good 1/3 Ioupy Collonges (FR) 1l
TFRHHHHI BHA131
FORM 222/53/-3
TIMEFORMVIEWSecondtoCorachRamblerinUltimaatthe2022Festival. Another good placed effort in a big handicap when third in Coral Cup at NewburyinNovemberofthatyear Notseenagainuntilthirdof6atWindsor in January but it’s an effort which suggests he retains most of his ability.
17Jan Wdr 24f HcpC soft 3/6 Herakles Westwood (FR)
Nov22 Nby 25f HcpC good 3/15 Le Milos
Nov22 Ain 24f HcpH gd-sf 5/7 Remastered 24l
TFRHHIII BHA129
FORM 42-2113 BF
TIMEFORM VIEW Has taken well to fences, winning 3m novice handicaps scoringatNewburyinDecemberandWindsorinJanuary.Onlyarespectable thirdof6backatNewburylastmonthandwillneedtoresumehisprogression to get heavily involved.
8Feb Nby 23f HcpC soft 3/6 Lord of Thunder (IRE) 12l 17Jan Wdr 24f HcpC soft 1/6 Deafening Silence (IRE) 31/4
Dec24 Nby 23f HcpC gd-sf 1/6 Moulins Clermont (FR)
TFRHHIII BHA127
FORM 4-P0P00
TIMEFORM VIEW Twelve runs since last win in 2022. Proved he stays well when good fourth in last year’s Scottish Grand National at Ayr (4m) but he hasn’t got near that level in 5 subsequent starts, the latest at Punchestown only 19 days ago First-time cheekpieces need to make a big difference. 20Feb Pun 27f HcpC soft 10/17 Fortunedefortunata (IRE) 54l 23Jan Gow 25f HcpC sf-hv 9/18 Nick Rockett (IRE) 33l
Dec24 Leo 24f HcpC gd-yd P/27 Perceval Legallois (FR) -
B g Kayf Tara - Speed Bonnie Boat 9 10-8
J Charlie Deutsch
T Mel Rowley, Bridgnorth
O Lady Dulverton
B H. D. J. Daly
S Price & Son Groundworks
TFRHHIII BHA125
FORM 222F-44
TIMEFORM VIEW Made up into a useful hurdler for this yard last term, winningtwiceandalsosecondinPertempsatthismeeting.Bettereffortback over fences this time round when fourth of 6 in 3m Windsor handicap in January but has yet to really convince as a chaser
17Jan Wdr 24f HcpC soft 4/6 Herakles Westwood (FR) 13l
Dec24 Nby 23f HcpC gd-sf 4/6 Herakles Westwood (FR) 31l Apr24 Ain 24f Hdl soft F/8 Dancing City (FR) -
17 CAESAR ROCK (IRE) (80)
B g Mahler - Supreme Von Pres (IRE) 9 10-7
J Gavin Brouder (3) E Cheek Pieces
T M. F. Morris, Ireland
O Michael O’Flynn/John F O’Flynn
B Margaret Treacy On His Own Stables
18 JUPITER ALLEN (FR) (35)
Ch g Castle du Berlais (FR) - Bienvenue Allen (FR) 6 10-7
J David Noonan E Cheek Pieces
T Mrs Jane Williams, South Molton
O Mr Ron Watts
B Bruno Vagne
S Culverhill Farm Racing
TFRHHIII BHA124 FORM 4532F4
TIMEFORMVIEWBoastsplentyofexperienceoverfencesbutstillamaiden and below form when a remote fourth in Thurles handicap when last seen in December Others are more obvious
Dec24 Thu 20f HcpC good 4 Prairie Dancer (IRE) 29l Nov24 Thu 22f Ch good F Drumgill (IRE)Oct24 Lim 19f HcpC good 2 The Big Chap (IRE) 41/4l
TFRHHIII BHA124 FORM 5-514P1
TIMEFORM VIEW Dual winner over hurdles and has also landed 2 chases winsthisseason,reactingwelltocheekpieces(retained)whenshadingaclose finish at Taunton (23f) lastmonth.Up4lb in asignificantly strongerracenow
4Feb Tnt 23f HcpC soft 1/9 The Doyen Chief (IRE) nk Dec24 Exe 24f HcpC gd-sf P/11 Don’t Rightly KnowDec24 San 24f HcpC soft 4/6 Hoe Joly Smoke 13l
DECLARED RUNNERS 20 2024: CORBETTS CROSS (IRE) 7 11 7 Mr Derek O’Connor 15-8 (Emmet Mullins) 7 ran
Stewards Note: KYNTARA: Following its run on 17/1/2025 it was reported that the horse was badly hampered by a faller.
Probable S.P’s: 9-2 Now Is The Hour (IRE), 11-2 Haiti Couleurs (FR), 7-1 Captain Cody (IRE), Transmission (IRE), 14-1 Will Do (IRE), 16-1 Resplendent Grey (IRE), Hasthing (FR), Gericault Roque (FR), 22-1 Herakles Westwood (FR), 28-1 Kyntara (GB), 33-1 In d’Or (FR), 40-1 No Time To Wait (IRE), Jupiter Allen (FR), 50-1 Stuzzikini (IRE), Klarc Kent (FR), 66-1 Duffle Coat (IRE), Rock My Way (IRE), Caesar Rock (IRE)
HAITI COULEURS created a good impression when proving too strong for Transmission (second choice) over 25f here in December He warmed up for this with a good third over hurdles at Newbury and there should be more to come from him back over the larger obstacles The shortlist is completed by Now Is The Hour and Captain Cody, who are closely matched on latest Navan maiden form and appeal as likely improvers now stepping up in trip for their handicap chase debuts
TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.HAITI COULEURS (FR) 2.TRANSMISSION (IRE) 3.NOW IS THE HOUR (IRE)
GREATBRITISHBONUSSCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
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Weights, Pedigrees, Trainers’ Names, Descriptions, Performances and Values of races have been added for the convenience of the Public, but are subject to alteration. All horses must parade in the Parade Ring except by permission of the Stewards, but in all cases must pass through the Ring on the way to the Post. The Management reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone without assigning a reason for so doing.
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CONDITIONS
First Race 1.20 - THE MICHAEL O’SULLIVAN SUPREME NOVICES’ 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 novice four 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 5th and pay £185, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 5th and pay £5400 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 11lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 7lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb SKY BET has generously sponsored this race Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and the stable employee responsible for the winning horse. A £200 cash prize will be presented to the stable employee in charge of the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race and a further prize to the second and third placed in the best turned out. A cash prize will be presented to the stable employee responsible for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed horses. They will also present a voucher and sponsored jacket to the stable employee responsible for each runner in this race All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of SKY BET 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, which has yet to take place. (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 64 entries, 27 at £185, 20 at £565, 17 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 26 FOR THIS RACE.
Second Race 2.00 - THE MY PENSION EXPERT ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £112540 to the winning horse The second to receive £42400, the third £21220, the fourth £10600 and the fifth £5320. for novice five yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating 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, January 21st and pay £250 stake, Scratch by noon, February 11th or pay £500, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £250, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 5th and pay £7000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Weights: 11st 7lb each Mares allowed 7lb. MY PENSION EXPERT 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 given to the member of racing staff responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race The Challenge Trophy has been presented by Anne Duchess of Westminster as a tribute to ARKLE, and is to be held by the winning owner until February 1st, next year. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of MY PENSION EXPERT. 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, which has yet to take place. (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. 25 entries, 10 at £250, 6 at £750, 9 at £1000. - Closed January 21st, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £86080; Second £35480; Third £17740; Fourth £8880; Fifth £4440. (Penalty Value £112540) A SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE.
Third Race 2.40 - THE ULTIMA HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (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 five yrs old and upwards, which before February 24th, 2025, have Started in a minimum of four Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France. Enter by noon, February 18th and pay £225 stake, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £525, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Penalties, after February 23rd, 2025, a winner of a steeple chase 5lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. ULTIMA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS 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 given 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 ULTIMA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS. 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 four times in Steeple Chases 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. 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, 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.) 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 48 entries, 17 at £225, 31 at £750. - Closed February 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £64560; Second £26610; Third £13305; Fourth £6660; Fifth £3330; Sixth £1665; Seventh £825; Eighth £420. (Penalty Value £84405) Weights raised 5lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE.
Fourth Race 3.20 - THE CLOSE BROTHERS MARES’HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Registered as The DAVID NICHOLSON MARES’HURDLE) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £69887 to the winning horse The second to receive £26330, the third £13177, the fourth £6582, the fifth £3303, the sixth £1651, the seventh £819 and the eighth £422. for four yrs old and upwards fillies and 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, January 14th and pay £150 stake, Scratch by noon, February 11th or pay £300, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £150, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 5th and pay £4800 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 7lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 5lb. CLOSE BROTHERS have generously sponsored this race. Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer jockey and member of racing staff. An award of £200 will be presented to the member of racing staff responsible for the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race Racing Staff with runners will be provided with a sponsored jacket. The winning owner is to hold a perpetual Challenge Trophy until February 1st, next year All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CLOSE BROTHERS. 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. 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, which has yet to take place. (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 25 entries, 1 at £150, 9 at £450, 14 at £600, 1 at £4800. - Closed January 14th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £53456; Second £22033; Third £11017; Fourth £5514; Fifth £2757; Sixth £1379; Seventh £683; Eighth £348. (Penalty Value £69887.34) A SEE PAGE 50 FOR THIS RACE.
Fifth Race 4.00 - THE UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE CHALLENGE TROPHY (CLASS 1) (Grade 1) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £253215 to the winning horse The second to receive £95400, the third £47745, the fourth £23850, the fifth £11970, the sixth £5985 and the seventh £2970. for four yrs old and upwards, which are allotted a rating or an assessment of 130 or more by the BHA Handicapper, taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation. Enter by noon, January 14th and pay £560 stake, Scratch by noon, February 11th or pay £1130, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £560, Supplementary Entry by noon, March 5th and pay £18000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Weights: 4-y-o 11st; 5-y-o and up 11st 10lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb UNIBET has generously sponsored this race Presentations will be made to the winning owner, trainer and jockey and Unibet will also present £100 to the stable employee responsible for the winning horse and a £250 award to the stable employee in charge of the horse judged to be the best turned out in this race Racing Staff responsible for runners will be provided with a sponsored jacket. The winning owner is to hold a perpetual Challenge Cup until February 1st, next year. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of UNIBET. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. 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, which has yet to take place. (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. 16 entries, 6 at £560, 2 at £1690, 8 at £2250. - Closed January 14th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £193680; Second £79830; Third £39915; Fourth £19980; Fifth £9990; Sixth £4995; Seventh £2475. (Penalty Value £253215) A SEE PAGE 58 FOR THIS RACE.
Sixth Race 4.40 - THE HALLGARTEN AND NOVUM WINES JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Registered as The FRED WINTER) (PREMIER HANDICAP) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £45016 to the winning horse The second to receive £16960, the third £8488, the fourth £4240, the fifth £2128, the sixth £1064, the seventh £528 and the eighth £272. for juvenile four yrs old, which before February 24th, 2025, have Started in a minimum of three Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France. Enter by noon, February 18th and pay £100 stake, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £300, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. 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. Hallgarten and Novum Wines has kindly 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 All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of HALLGARTEN AND NOVUM WINES 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: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of three times in Hurdle Races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code This race will be restricted to 22 runners plus two reserves. The two reserves will be nominated as R23 and R24. 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. 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, 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.) 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 35 entries, 9 at £100, 26 at £400. - Closed February 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £34432; Second £14192; Third £7096; Fourth £3552; Fifth £1776; Sixth £888; Seventh £440; Eighth £224. (Penalty Value £45016) Weights raised 4lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. 12 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. SEE PAGE 66 FOR THIS RACE.
Seventh Race 5.20 - THE PRINCESS ROYAL NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP NOVICES’ HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £52030 to the winning horse The second to receive £23920, the third £11960, the fourth £5980, the fifth £2990 and the sixth £1490. for novice five yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-145 which prior to February 24th, 2025, have Started in a minimum of three Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France, at least one of which must be during the current season, and which have been placed first, second, third or fourth in a Steeple Chase with an official distance description of ‘two miles seven and a half furlongs’ or more. Enter by noon, February 18th and pay £150 stake, Confirm by noon, March 5th and pay £350, Declare by 10.00 a.m. March 9th. Penalties, after February 23rd, 2025, a winner of a steeple chase 5lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. Jockeys must have ridden in a minimum of 20 steeple chases under the Rules of Racing, including a minimum of 5 wins in steeple chases (For the avoidance of doubt wins achieved in Point-to-Points do not count as wins under the Rules of Racing.). A Challenge Cup, originally presented by the late Col. P. M. Hamer, O.B.E., is to be held by the winning owner until February 1st, next year In addition, a Challenge Trophy, in memory of Major Sir Guy Cunard, will be presented to the winning rider , to be held until February 1st next year 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 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. This race will be restricted to 18 runners plus two reserves. The two reserves will be nominated as R19 and R20. 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. the day before the race 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, which has yet to take place. (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.) 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 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 three times in Steeple Chases in Great Britain, Ireland or France. 33 entries, 8 at £150, 25 at £500. - Closed February 18th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £39750; Second £19870; Third £9940; Fourth £4970; Fifth £2480; Sixth £1240. (Penalty Value £52030) 4 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10.
SEE PAGE 72 FOR THIS RACE.
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