March 15 / 14.50 Cheltenham

14.50

Soft

Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £56270
  • 2m 5f 0y
  • Class 1
  • 28 runners
ITV
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Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 28 runners

Type: Hurdle Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

11/1 (Won)

Form: B1-378

Last run: 73 days

W: 11st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Beat all bar Galopin Des Champs in the 2021 Martin Pipe at this meeting and brought down early when favourite last year on his second go at that race; won at Aintree last April but remains on a competitive mark and highly likely to stage a return to form; acts on soft, unraced on heavy; player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

17th Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Windsor

Langer Dan

11st 4lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

held up in last, weakened after 3 out, detached when mistake 2 out

6/1

5th

5

17th Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Windsor

Langer Dan

11st 4lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

held up in last, weakened after 3 out, detached when mistake 2 out

6/1

Form: 481-00

Last run: 38 days

W: 11st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Wide-margin winner at Punchestown (2m3f, heavy) in December 2021 and that's his only foray beyond 2m1f, suiting him extremely well; 338 days off before never figuring in two hot handicaps this winter (50-1 and 80-1); tongue-tie and cheekpieces are both enlisted today; very much catches the eye with this longer trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

10th Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 0f 98y

11:50 Punchestown

An Epic Song

11st 5lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Martin Brassil

led narrowly or disputed lead early, prominent after 1st, lost position but in touch with leaders before 4 out, 4 lengths down when fell 3 out

14/1

3

10th Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 0f 98y

11:50 Punchestown

An Epic Song

11st 5lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Martin Brassil

led narrowly or disputed lead early, prominent after 1st, lost position but in touch with leaders before 4 out, 4 lengths down when fell 3 out

14/1

6th

1

23rd Nov 2024

Yielding

2m 2f 200y

12:30 Punchestown

An Epic Song

11st 12lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Martin Brassil

Touched off by Langer Dan in last year's Coral Cup; hasn't shown much in two starts over fences; jumped left when beaten a long way in race won by Gaelic Warrior here and, after four months off, again not fluent at Cork; up against it.

25/1

OUR TIP

Form: 1U4B08 C

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 1lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Fourth in two major handicaps here last term, including this race when soft ground might not have been ideal; won well in a good handicap at Punchestown (2m3f, yielding) next time; failed to shine this winter, chasing initially, but he is 2lb lower than this time last year; headed the recent betting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

0

1

4th Nov 2023

Soft

1m 7f 152y

Class 2

15:15 Ascot

Camprond

12st 0lb

J: Sean Houlihan

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Close third of 26 in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham (2m5f, soft) in March, 3l ahead when not fluent at the final flight; 4lb higher today but chief concern is that the Coral Cup is the only time he really fired last season.

20/1

15th

3

14th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Camprond

11st 11lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Returned to form with close third of 26 in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham (2m5f, soft) last month, where he was 3l ahead when not fluent at the final flight; close second of 22 at this meeting in 2021 (2m, good to soft) and he's a strong contender despite a 5lb rise since last time.

11/2

3rd

18

15th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:50 Cheltenham

Camprond

11st 1lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Fourth in two major handicaps here last term, including this race when soft ground might not have been ideal; won well in a good handicap at Punchestown (2m3f, yielding) next time; failed to shine this winter, chasing initially, but he is 2lb lower than this time last year; headed the recent betting.

9/1

Form: 311/4- BF

Last run: 326 days

W: 11st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Useful hurdler two seasons back for Paul Nicholls; still pretty useful on Flat, changing stables after Royal Ascot last year and running respectably in two good Flat handicaps in the autumn; the latter was on heavy going but he's not been seen often on testing ground and peak efforts on no worse than good to soft; second to The Very Man in a charity Flat race last month and this is his first run over hurdles for Willie Mullins.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

1

(10)

28th Jun 2024

Good

2m 0f 0y

19:15 Curragh

Scaramanga

10st 0lb

J: Ryan Moore

T: W P Mullins

Five-time winner over hurdles, most memorably when winning the Grade 1 Iroquois Hurdle in America over 3m last year; not seen since down the field in the big amateur Flat handicap at Galway last summer; absence not normally a factor from this yard and Ryan Moore booked; contender.

10/1

13th

12

(10)

31st Jul 2023

Soft

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Scaramanga

11st 7lb

J: Miss J Townend

T: W P Mullins

Effectively campaigned, espacially over hurdles; fourth in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham before travelling to America to land the Grade 1 Iroquois Hurdle in May; should be effective off this mark and an intriguing runner here.

10/1

Form: P-P112 D BF

Last run: 25 days

W: 11st 3lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Won on soft last winter; also took his first two starts after joining Nicky Henderson, making all in good style in 2m4f handicap chases this winter; tired when 4-9 favourite in three-runner 3m Grade 2 novice chase at Ascot latest but he was niggled at some way out too, so 3m probably not solely to blame; chase mark is 5lb higher, so he's interesting on form if back on song returned to hurdling in first-time cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

28th Jun 2026

Good

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

16:03 Uttoxeter

Bold Endeavour

11st 7lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Chris Honour

Well handicapped on best form for previous yards but needs to stage a revival on debut for Chris Honour; resurgent efforts in January/March have not been built on; sold for £23,000 since last run; market may offer further guidance.

20/1

14th

6

9th May 2026

Good

3m 0f 58y

Class 2

12:45 Haydock

Bold Endeavour

10st 11lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Back with Nicky Henderson last season and showed he retained a chunk of ability on first two starts, latterly when seventh of 24 in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham (3m, good); made the running at Aintree (22-1) four weeks ago but ended pulled up; remains well handicapped on old form but there's been no win since January 2023.

20/1

18

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 149y

Class 1

13:20 Aintree

Bold Endeavour

10st 11lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

Back with Nicky Henderson after last season with Laura Morgan; had marks in the 140s at his peak and has shown he still retains a good chunk of that ability in his two outings after a year off, latterly finishing seventh of 24 to Supremely West in the Pertemps at Cheltenham (3m, good).

16/1

Form: 3F-232 D

Last run: 74 days

W: 11st 6lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Travelled best when third of 15 in 3m Pertemps qualifier at Punchestown (yielding) on penultimate outing; dropped back to an extended 2m3f there (soft to heavy) latest and did very well in second of 19, making major inroads against San Salvador who had gone well beyond recall; looks set for a big run.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

7th Jun 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 55y

14:32 Punchestown

Captain Conby

11st 4lb

J: Kevin Sexton

T: E Sheehy

Had very useful form in 2023 and looked sharper for his Flat return after 851 days off the track when a 12l sixth of ten at Wexford (2m, good to yielding); on a nice mark if continuing to shake off his rustiness.

16/1

6th

4

7th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 0y

18:08 Wexford

Captain Conby

11st 10lb

J: Kevin Healy

T: E Sheehy

Should be sharper now following a comeback on the Flat; had very useful form in 2023; might just need another race or two to become competitive again.

8/1

11th

2

(11)

11th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

1m 3f 90y

19:30 Bellewstown

Captain Conby

9st 9lb

J: Luke McAteer

T: E Sheehy

Talented jumper wasn't disgraced on sole previous start on the Flat at Roscommon in July 2023 (RPR 75); however, he's been absent a long time and is likely best watched on debut for new yard.

25/1

Form: 216-16 C

Last run: 116 days

W: 11st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Favourite for this race last year when he failed to get in as the first reserve; clearcut win at Carlisle (2m4f, heavy) in October ensured that he's safely in this time; raced too freely and tired badly when he tried 3m off this 6lb higher mark at Haydock in November latest; tongue tied for those last two starts; this drop back in trip will help and although he needs to resume improvement, that may be possible given he's had only ten races.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

27th Dec 2023

Good To Soft

2m 3f 98y

Class 2

13:05 Chepstow

Good Risk At All

10st 7lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Sam Thomas

didn't jump with fluency, pressed leaders, awkward jump 2nd, reminders after 8th, soon detached, weakened after 5 out, tailed off

13/8

Form: 4-246F

Last run: 11 days

W: 10st 12lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Grade 2 novice win at Kelso (2m2f, soft) last March; wore cheekpieces on last two starts when respectable sixth of 15 here (2m1f, soft) in January and a faller three out when in serious contention at Kelso (2m5f) 11 days ago, with wind surgery in between; might be capable of better but needs to be.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

5

24th Apr 2026

Good

2m 4f 35y

Class 3

15:47 Perth

Nells Son

11st 9lb

J: Danny McMenamin

T: Nicky Richards

Better known as a chaser nowadays, but won twice over hurdles over four years ago; no real promise back hurdling six weeks ago but had wind surgery since and his stable is enjoying a cracking spring.

14/1

8th

2

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 207y

Class 3

13:50 Uttoxeter

Nells Son

11st 13lb

J: Danny McMenamin

T: Nicky Richards

Better known as a chaser nowadays, but won twice over hurdles over four years ago; not the force of old but is 5lb lower over hurdles compared to his chase mark; vulnerable to anything progressive.

33/1

1

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 203y

Class 3

13:28 Haydock

Nells Son

12st 2lb

J: Danny McMenamin

T: Nicky Richards

A smart winning chaser at his peak but not at his best this term, only fifth of six in 2m Windsor handicap chase 27 days ago; his mark is falling but this veteran still looks vulnerable conceding weight all round here.

12/1

Form: 3-2FP7

Last run: 31 days

W: 11st 7lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Disappointing when 6-1 favourite and 12-1 in last two renewals of this race; no ground worries but he has not shone this term (over fences initially) and his last win was in December 2020, so he's not the percentage call.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

11th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

16:05 Aintree

Grand Roi

12st 0lb

J: Mr Tommie M O’Brien

T: Mrs J Owen

Only an 8yo but his rating has capitulated during the last two years and his recent form is nowhere near good enough for a test of this magnitude.

100/1

10

11th Apr 2024

Heavy

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

16:05 Aintree

Grand Roi

12st 0lb

J: Mr Tommie M O’Brien

T: Mrs J Owen

Only an 8yo but his rating has capitulated during the last two years and his recent form is nowhere near good enough for a test of this magnitude.

100/1

4

19th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 0f 54y

Class 5

16:30 Exeter

Grand Roi

11st 12lb

J: Mr Alex Chadwick

T: Mrs J Owen

Grade 2 hurdle winner in 2020 and bits of form in better races than this in recent times; out of sorts in the autumn but he might well have pegged back Forest Chimes at Stratford (2m5f, heavy) last week with a better jump at the last; this stiffer test can suit; can go well.

5/2

Form: 114-80 D

Last run: 74 days

W: 10st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Three hurdle wins in 2021 as a novice, in 2m5f Listed race at Limerick (soft) on third occasion, and creditable fourth in Grade 2 novice over C&D that November; not seen again until well beaten in two warm handicaps in December (18-1 and 16-1) but he showed that some ability remains on first occasion and he's not written off yet.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18th

22

14th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Off Your Rocco

11st 0lb

J: Kieren Buckley

T: Gordon Elliott

Has returned from an absence this season and failed to threaten, finishing tenth in the Coral Cup last month; however, his top Irish yard has a good record in this race and he may yet have a bigger run in him, having been a Listed novice hurdle winner in October 2021.

25/1

10th

25

15th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:50 Cheltenham

Off Your Rocco

10st 12lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Three hurdle wins in 2021 as a novice, in 2m5f Listed race at Limerick (soft) on third occasion, and creditable fourth in Grade 2 novice over C&D that November; not seen again until well beaten in two warm handicaps in December (18-1 and 16-1) but he showed that some ability remains on first occasion and he's not written off yet.

66/1

12th

4

31st Dec 2022

Soft

2m 3f 120y

14:32 Punchestown

Off Your Rocco

11st 5lb

J: Jordan Gainford

T: Gordon Elliott

The last of his three hurdle wins came in a Limerick Listed race in October 2021; only midfield in a Fairyhouse handicap a month ago but that was after a year out, so should improve.

25/1

Form: 117-33

Last run: 74 days

W: 11st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Usually held up; made a big splash on the Flat last term, notably winning the Cesarewitch at Newmarket (2m2f, good); back hurdling for good third at Haydock (3m, soft) and not discredited on soft to heavy in December, but it could be that a return to better ground would help; tried cheekpieces (return today) and visor in 2021 but no headgear last year; high-profile candidate.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

5

2nd Jul 2026

Good

2m 0f 110y

17:20 Limerick

Run For Oscar

11st 1lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: C Byrnes

Smart dual-purpose performer, although he has been lightly raced since taking a 3m1f Kilbeggan conditions hurdle in August 2024; absent since last October; would receive 16lb from Daddy Long Legs in a handicap.

12/1

2

16th Oct 2025

Good

2m 6f 154y

16:27 Thurles

Run For Oscar

11st 6lb

J: Philip Byrnes

T: C Byrnes

Smart dual-purpose performer although hasn't won since taking 3m1f Kilbeggan conditions hurdle last summer; two recent runs under his belt could give him a fitness edge but lots to find on ratings with Hewick.

7/4

3

8th Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 5f 129y

16:50 Galway

Run For Oscar

11st 6lb

J: Philip Byrnes

T: C Byrnes

Eight-time winner, including four over hurdles; disappointed on the Flat at Killarney on return from 314-days off; should strip fitter now and handles soft but the majority of his best form has come on good ground; not discounted, especially if the track dries out.

7/2

Form: -P5P43 D

Last run: 31 days

W: 11st 10lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Often seen in Grade 1 races, including fourth in the Stayers' Hurdle here in 2021 when he travelled well but was seemingly outstayed; won a Grade 1 novice chase in Ireland last term; more miss than hit last year but this is his first handicap and last month's third in Grade 2 hurdle at Navan (2m5f) puts him back into calculations; wears a first-time tongue-tie.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

12th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 7f 3y

Class 5

16:00 Taunton

Beacon Edge

11st 12lb

J: Mr Joshua Newman

T: J Newman

Best known as a very talented hurdler, also landing a Grade 1 novice chase in 2021; had jumping issues over fences subsequently and this is his first chase start since 2022; returned from some time off with a point win last month (3m, soft); it remains to be seen how much ability this 12yo retains but he's entitled to considerable respect on his hunter chase debut.

13/8

1st

1

28th May 2025

Good To Firm

2m 1f 0y

16:55 Wexford

Beacon Edge

12st 0lb

J: Mr J M Halford

T: Gordon Elliott

Winner of nine races; 7-34 record over hurdles, including a four-runner Grade 2 event over 3m at Wetherby last October; ran creditably when seventh in the 26-runner Coral Cup at Cheltenham; down the field at Aintree subsequently; trip is short of his best but he won a stronger race than this over 2m2f at Ballinrobe a year ago; amateur rider, 2-11 over hurdles.

11/8

1

28th May 2025

Good To Firm

2m 1f 0y

16:55 Wexford

Beacon Edge

12st 0lb

J: Mr J M Halford

T: Gordon Elliott

Winner of nine races; 7-34 record over hurdles, including a four-runner Grade 2 event over 3m at Wetherby last October; ran creditably when seventh in the 26-runner Coral Cup at Cheltenham; down the field at Aintree subsequently; trip is short of his best but he won a stronger race than this over 2m2f at Ballinrobe a year ago; amateur rider, 2-11 over hurdles.

11/8

Form: 18-012 D

Last run: 60 days

W: 11st 10lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Inconsistent previously but he's run well on both starts this winter, winning at Newbury (2m4f, good) and short-headed when 25-1 under 7lb claimer in the Lanzarote at Kempton (2m5f, soft); raised another 5lb to career-high mark but not entirely ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

1

15th Apr 2026

Good

3m 0f 58y

Class 2

16:25 Haydock

Red Risk

12st 0lb

J: Paddy Hanlon

T: Paul Nicholls

Retains lots of ability despite his advancing years and won a Pertemps qualifier at Musselburgh in February (3m, good to soft); Uttoxeter was disappointing in a race he won the previous year, but he's shown bouncebackability in the past.

20/1

8th

2

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

14:25 Uttoxeter

Red Risk

11st 11lb

J: Freddie Keighley

T: Paul Nicholls

Successful in this race last year (2-3 at Uttoxeter overall) and Pertemps qualifier at Musselburgh latest start, both on good to soft ground; retains plenty of ability despite his advancing years and can't be dismissed.

11/1

1st

3

1st Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 2

15:40 Musselburgh

Red Risk

11st 7lb

J: Freddie Keighley

T: Paul Nicholls

Veteran who won in a big field at Uttoxeter (2m7f, good to soft; 1lb higher today) last March; tailed off both starts since (Freddie Keighley on board last time) but with nearly eight months off in between and his trainer (also runs Sonigino) is always one to note here.

20/1

Form: 14-331

Last run: 53 days

W: 11st 6lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Fourth in the 4yo handicap at this meeting last year; major improvement when upped to 2m4f at Navan (soft) on latest start, seeing it out very well to emerge on top late on; up the weights but should have more to offer at this sort of trip and represents a trainer whose Festival runners need lots of respect.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

24

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

HMS Seahorse

10st 11lb

J: Eoin Staples

T: Paul Nolan

Fourth in the Fred Winter here in 2022 but beaten 20l when just 7-1 for this race in 2023; long layoff before last season and easily best effort since was his 2m4f non-handicap win with first-time blinkers (kept since) at Clonmel last June; fell in August on his second chase start and unseated over hurdles in September; absent since and others have more pressing claims.

40/1

2

8th Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 5f 129y

16:50 Galway

HMS Seahorse

11st 6lb

J: Peter Smithers

T: Paul Nolan

Rated 138; dual-purpose sort won his last start over hurdles at Clonmel in June (2m4f, gd-yld); fell at the third on latest start over fences at Wexford; has gone well here before and he's ground versatile; chance if that fall hasn't left a mark.

3/1

3

6th Aug 2025

Good

2m 3f 130y

18:07 Wexford

HMS Seahorse

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: Paul Nolan

Rated 138 over hurdles; decisive winner of a 2m4f conditions hurdle at Clonmel in June following a five-month break; blinkers employed that day were retained when runner-up over C&D on chase debut; this looks like a stronger race but should be in the mix again

3/1

Form: 4PF515

Last run: 78 days

W: 11st 5lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 142

Form & Verdict
Mixed record in light career but some of that was over fences and he made a successful return to hurdling by short head in 18-runner handicap at Naas (2m4f, yielding to soft) in November; wore cheekpieces that day and also when fair fifth at Leopardstown (2m) at Christmas, again making the running; back up in trip and needs a second look.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:00 Punchestown

Watch House Cross

10st 11lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

in touch with leaders, brought down 5 out

12/1

10

1st May 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 80y

18:00 Punchestown

Watch House Cross

10st 11lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

in touch with leaders, brought down 5 out

12/1

9th

9

14th Mar 2024

Soft

2m 4f 127y

Class 1

16:10 Cheltenham

Watch House Cross

11st 3lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Faded in the 2m5f Coral Cup last March; won small-field novice chases at Wexford (2m, yielding; 2m4f, good to yielding) later but has found 3m on testing ground beyond him in competitive handicaps since; the return to 2m4f should suit but he needs to put a subsequent early fall behind him.

25/1

Form: 0-0039

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 2lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
More miss than hit in good handicap hurdles, admittedly hampered when 66-1 in the Martin Pipe here one year ago; probably stretched by 3m on latest hurdles start but won a charity Flat race (from Scaramanga) later in February; more exposed than most and needs to be at his peak.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

3

(12)

23rd Aug 2024

Good

1m 6f 80y

19:12 Killarney

The Very Man

9st 12lb

J: Scott McCullagh

T: Mrs John Harrington

slowly into stride, always behind

12/1

9th

2

19th Jul 2024

Good

2m 6f 180y

15:05 Killarney

The Very Man

11st 12lb

J: Rachael Blackmore

T: Mrs John Harrington

Talented dual-purpose performer; cracking fifth in red-hot 2m4f Punchestown handicap on latest hurdles run.

7/1

12th

2

(9)

18th Jun 2024

Good To Firm

2m 3f 210y

Class 2

18:05 Ascot

The Very Man

9st 11lb

J: Shane Foley

T: Mrs John Harrington

Very solid sequence last spring/summer on ground ranging from good (unraced on firmer) to heavy, including a dominant display from the back over 2m at this track; 7lb higher mark today demands a career-best Flat performance but he was bang there in blanket finish to a good handicap hurdle last month and it's not hard to think that this trip will suit.

25/1

Form: 143-30

Last run: 32 days

W: 11st 8lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Creditable fourth in 2022 Triumph Hurdle here; flopped in two of three starts since (latest was the Betfair at Newbury) but his third of 17 in good handicap at Fairyhouse (2m, soft; travelled smoothly until after two out, kept on) in December ensures he's not ruled out; upped markedly in trip.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

26th Feb 2026

Soft

3m 0f 26y

Class 3

16:10 Wetherby

Icare Allen

12st 0lb

J: Benjamin Macey

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Inconsistent but he won at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good) last July and returned from a break with a close third here (2m5f, soft) on Boxing Day, staying on nicely; he's fine at this trip; not his fault when unseating mid-race at Haydock last month; could be involved.

12/1

6

17th Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 58y

Class 3

14:35 Haydock

Icare Allen

11st 2lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Inconsistent but he won at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good) last July and returned from a break with a close third at Wetherby (2m5f, soft) on Boxing Day, staying on nicely; he'll be fine now back up in trip and could be involved.

11/1

4

26th Oct 2025

Good

3m 0f 149y

Class 3

12:40 Aintree

Icare Allen

11st 12lb

J: Benjamin Macey

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Returned to form to win at Uttoxeter (2m4f, good) in July and again ran well when fourth there (2m4f, good) last month; stays this far and is effective on soft ground; goes well for Benjamin Macey, with form figures of 29214, and he could have a part to play.

6/1

Form: 314316

Last run: 38 days

W: 11st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
33-1 (Triumph) and 28-1 (County) when well held at this meeting in the last two seasons, falling at the final flight in the latter; his two wins over hurdles since were in non-handicaps and although he's also shown up in two warm handicaps over 2m, including latest start, he needs to find extra; the marked step up in trip is not sure to help.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

22nd Apr 2026

Good

2m 7f 171y

Class 4

15:30 Ludlow

Tax For Max

11st 9lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

Three wins at around 2m in Ireland and latest was over fences for Willie Mullins in June 2023; record of 0-8 for current yard but he rallied well when a creditable third here (2m, good) last month; this is a different test at this new trip but he's well treated on his old form and needs watching in the market; tongue-tie back on.

5/1

3rd

2

19th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 212y

Class 4

15:50 Ludlow

Tax For Max

11st 7lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

Another previously useful ex-Mullins horse who's yet to score for this yard; some fair efforts, though, including when second of six at Huntingdon (2m4f, good to soft) at the start of the month; drops back in trip and also needs considering from a career-low mark.

15/8

2nd

5

1st Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 3f 189y

Class 3

14:45 Huntingdon

Tax For Max

10st 11lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

Hurdles/chase winner for Willie Mullins but is 0-6 since joining current stable and returning from long absence; failed to derive benefit from going back over fences the last twice; current mark reflects a decline in his form (20lb higher at his peak).

14/1

12/1

Form: 221351

Last run: 25 days

W: 12st 0lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Runner-up to Vauban in three Grade 1s as juvenile, including the Triumph here; kept to about 2m this winter, including for wins in a beginners' chase and last month in a Grade 3 when back over hurdles; style of racing and some stamina in the family help to make this new trip an interesting move.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

(7)

2nd Sep 2025

Good

1m 6f 0y

17:37 Gowran Park

Fil Dor

9st 9lb

J: Chris Hayes

T: Gordon Elliott

Smart jumper with four wins over hurdles and two over fences including in Grade 2 company; was runner-up on sole Flat start in France in 2021 over this trip; might find this trip a bit sharp now but should run a big race.

11/2

2nd

3

20th Apr 2025

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:57 Cork

Fil Dor

11st 0lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

raced in second, challenging when briefly left in lead 2 out, soon faced challenge, headed approaching last, no chance with winner run-in

100/30

2nd

3

20th Apr 2025

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:57 Cork

Fil Dor

11st 0lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

raced in second, challenging when briefly left in lead 2 out, soon faced challenge, headed approaching last, no chance with winner run-in

100/30

Form: 3-1252 C

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 9lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Kempton (2m5f) in November saw his only win in the last three and a bit years but he was unlucky next time (2m7f, soft); back on song when second at Sandown latest; concerns are that he pulled up in this race last year and underperformed here on penultimate start, while a big show in this race would require his best form in nearly two years.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

27th Apr 2024

Good

2m 5f 110y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Call Me Lord

11st 4lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

prominent, mistake 4 out, weakened from 2 out

40/1

6th

7

27th Apr 2024

Good

2m 5f 110y

Class 1

16:10 Sandown

Call Me Lord

11st 4lb

J: James Bowen

T: Nicky Henderson

prominent, mistake 4 out, weakened from 2 out

40/1

12th

2

17th Apr 2024

Good To Soft

2m 7f 213y

Class 2

15:50 Cheltenham

Call Me Lord

11st 13lb

J: Ben Bromley

T: Nicky Henderson

midfield, outpaced 2 out, weakened quickly approaching last

20/1

Form: 1-4P05 C

Last run: 11 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 151

Form & Verdict
Won two handicap hurdles (3m/3m1f) last season, the first at this track and the second off today's mark; failed to shine this term in a Grade 2 hurdle race and three handicap chases, having a wind operation before penultimate start and trying blinkers (now discarded) on latest; no ground worries but unraced over this short for over two years and he's unreliable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

2

20th May 2023

Good

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

19:05 Uttoxeter

Sporting John

11st 13lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

in touch with leaders, headway after 8th, ridden after 3 out, weakened after 2 out

12/1

8th

4

1st May 2023

Good

3m 0f 0y

Class 3

15:40 Kempton

Sporting John

11st 9lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Grade 1 novices' chase winner in his prime; no trip/ground issues, but 21lb descent since pulling up in the Rowland Meyrick says plenty about a pretty poor 2022-23 season, including dropped to Class 3 latest.

14/1

4th

2

10th Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 7f 131y

Class 3

14:35 Chepstow

Sporting John

11st 10lb

J: Aidan Coleman

T: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Smart in his prime but has become disappointing this season; will find this much easier than Cheltenham Festival handicap hurdle he contested last month but he was never competitive there and now switches back to chasing with some questions to answer.

12/1

Form: -22211

Last run: 11 days

W: 11st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Acts on heavy; runner-up on first three starts for new yard before cheekpieces were restored for wins at Musselburgh (2m4f, soft; easily made all) and Kelso (2m, good to soft; came from well off the pace); the latter was a very warm handicap 11 days ago and, although he now has 5lb penalty for career-high mark, it looks as if he's never been better.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

25th Oct 2025

Good

2m 0f 51y

Class 4

15:20 Kelso

Benson

12st 1lb

J: William Maggs

T: Sandy Thomson

Last of his six wins over hurdles was off a 25lb higher mark at Musselburgh in January 2024 (2m4f, soft); mainly disappointing since then, including when tried over fences; best watched for now.

14/1

9

14th Jun 2025

Good

2m 4f 28y

Class 3

18:28 Hexham

Benson

10st 12lb

J: Sean Quinlan

T: Sandy Thomson

One-time very useful handicapper; nothing like as good these days and has finished last on last two starts, latest a four-runner C&D handicap last month; very well handicapped (dropped a further 4lb for his run last time so now 22lb below last winning mark); plenty to prove at present.

14/1

Form: F6-021

Last run: 74 days

W: 11st 1lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
Second to Riaan at Cork (2m4f, soft) in November, no threat to the winner but running on despite a blunder two out and being untidy at the last; no such errors at Punchestown (extended 2m3f, soft to heavy) in December latest, always close up, going on two out and threatening to turn 19-runner race into a procession before Captain Conby closed late on; style of that win has to put him on the shortlist.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

18

24th Sep 2025

Yielding To Soft

2m 7f 180y

16:23 Listowel

San Salvador

10st 12lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Three Flat wins this year, the latest over 1m5f at Ballinrobe in July; jumping was untidy at times on return to chasing at Galway; down the field in the Cheltenham Festival novice handicap in which Anyway finished second; plenty to prove.

10/1

4th

1

1st Aug 2025

Good

2m 6f 111y

18:00 Galway

San Salvador

11st 12lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Dual-purpose performer is 8-28 in all codes, two of his wins coming over fences in novice chases; has been plying his trade on the Flat recently with good success, including two wins; fell at Leopardstown and tailed off at Cheltenham in his last two chase starts so he has something to prove now returned to this discipline.

13/1

1

(11)

21st Jul 2025

Yielding

1m 4f 184y

19:30 Ballinrobe

San Salvador

10st 0lb

J: Dylan Browne McMonagle

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Seven wins under all rules with last one coming in a Killarney conditions race in May; even better form when beaten only 4l in the Ascot Stakes h'cap last time; this trip is fine too and is a big player.

7/2

Form: -42111 D

Last run: 20 days

W: 11st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Kicked off 2023 winning at Punchestown in a 2m maiden (heavy) and 2m4f novice (soft); justified 5-6 favouritism in Grade 3 novice at Thurles (extended 2m4f, good) three weeks ago, doing it very narrowly but he's promising as well as inexperienced and needs plenty of respect on this handicap debut.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

11th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 100y

18:37 Killarney

Sa Fureur

11st 0lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Classy sort who is 2-7 over fences and ran as well as he was entitled to behind Energumene in a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse last month; his second to Impaire Et Passe in February was bordering on a career best and he's Kennedy's pick from three stablemates.

4/1

4th

6

6th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 3f 180y

16:20 Fairyhouse

Sa Fureur

11st 4lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

2-6 over fences; won the Navan Listed handicap in 2024, that Down Memory Lane won last year, off 143, which was his last success; excellent effort in the Grade 2 Red Mills at Gowran in February when a 1.25l second behind Impaire Et Passe; well beaten in the Martin Pipe latest but the return to chasing is a plus; a fair bit to find on the figures, however.

8/1

13th

4

13th Mar 2026

Good

2m 4f 56y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Sa Fureur

11st 9lb

J: Eoin Staples

T: Gordon Elliott

Well treated on best chase form, including second in Gowran Grade 2 when returned to that sphere last time, but he has never been able to show it over hurdles; his Cheltenham Festival record of P40, the fourth-place finish over fences, adds to the uncertainty.

20/1

Form: 225101

Last run: 34 days

W: 10st 12lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Something wrong behind San Salvador at Punchestown (soft to heavy) on New Year's Eve, which included some jumping mistakes; stacks of promise when he won handicap debut from that rival the time before (2m4f, soft) and he scored again in a novice at Thurles (made most) on latest start; not the finished article in those starts but there's plenty of ability in there.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

18th Jul 2026

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 1

14:45 Market Rasen

Riaan

11st 7lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

His defeat of the smart Jesse Evans at Sligo in October heightens interest and new headgear is tried after two lesser efforts, particularly the latest; he has become hard to predict but it's unwise to put a line through him.

16/1

10th

2

15th Jun 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 4f 0y

17:12 Kilbeggan

Riaan

11st 8lb

J: James Smith

T: Gordon Elliott

Mark of 136 is tempting on the form of his 3.75l defeat of the 146 rated Jesse Evans at Sligo in October; strip fitter for remote fourth in Punchestown Grade 3 novice on latest; interesting with rider taking off a handy 5lb.

10/1

4th

6

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 4f 80y

17:25 Punchestown

Riaan

10st 13lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Chase wins have been at Wexford and Sligo on decent ground, latter occasion when beating Jesse Evans 3.5l at levels in October when last seen, albeit steady pace possibly suited; has run well fresh and has his ground here, so one to consider.

8/1

Form: 4-1633 D

Last run: 26 days

W: 10st 11lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Better form as a chaser, including in useful handicap at Doncaster (good; acts on heavy) when upped to 3m on penultimate start; back hurdling today (first time since last March) and his chase mark is 4lb higher, with some hurdles form also reading well, but he's comparatively exposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

13th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 96y

Class 2

15:00 Kelso

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Bruce Lynn

T: N W Alexander

12yo who lacked fluency when back over fences and was soundly beaten at Haydock in December; however, prior to that he made a fairly encouraging return from an absence over hurdles at Ayr and he's a six-time winner at Kelso; could have a part to play now back here.

13/2

5th

1

1st Nov 2025

Soft

3m 0f 70y

Class 3

13:58 Ayr

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Dominic Hislop

T: N W Alexander

Likeable veteran whose ten wins include six at Kelso and three here; made a successful reappearance in 3m2f chase at Kelso (from Famous Bridge) last autumn; doesn't run often over hurdles these days but he has a lower mark and cannot be ruled out completely.

15/2

5th

1

1st Nov 2025

Soft

3m 0f 70y

Class 3

13:58 Ayr

Elvis Mail

12st 0lb

J: Dominic Hislop

T: N W Alexander

Likeable veteran whose ten wins include six at Kelso and three here; made a successful reappearance in 3m2f chase at Kelso (from Famous Bridge) last autumn; doesn't run often over hurdles these days but he has a lower mark and cannot be ruled out completely.

15/2

Form: -22111 D

Last run: 25 days

W: 10st 11lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
5-10 as hurdler; form figures of 2111 since last summer's wind surgery and those wins (2m3f-2m4f, good/good to soft) at Taunton, Fakenham and Ascot were all gained with authority; last ran on soft last March (runner-up) and has left that form way behind; progressive, though, and can go well if he acts on the ground; first reserve.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

5

11th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 91y

Class 2

16:25 Ayr

Irish Hill

11st 6lb

J: Jay Tidball

T: Paul Nicholls

prominent behind clear leader

8/1

5th

5

11th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 91y

Class 2

16:25 Ayr

Irish Hill

11st 6lb

J: Jay Tidball

T: Paul Nicholls

prominent behind clear leader

8/1

4th

4

15th Mar 2025

Good

2m 5f 0y

Class 2

14:45 Kempton

Irish Hill

11st 11lb

J: Jay Tidball

T: Paul Nicholls

pressed leader

7/1

Form: 1-134P D

Last run: 60 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Solid record in handicaps over 2m/2m4f this term until he was pulled up in the Lanzarote at Kempton (2m5f, soft) two months ago; needs to bounce back with a major career best.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

2

9th May 2026

Good

3m 0f 58y

Class 2

12:45 Haydock

Harbour Lake

11st 10lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Alan King

Won by a neck in this race (good) last year off 1lb lower, having been third in it the year before; 33-1 sixth at Aintree last month suggested he's working his way back to that level, so has to be considered seriously.

8/1

6th

4

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 149y

Class 1

13:20 Aintree

Harbour Lake

11st 9lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Alan King

Won a good prize at Haydock (3m, good) last May; pulled up on return to action there in November but better when fourth of seven to Ma Shantou at Cheltenham (3m, good) on New Year's Day; being eased another 2lb can only help this C&D scorer but he requires a big career best as a 10yo.

28/1

1st

1

10th May 2025

Good

3m 0f 58y

Class 2

13:00 Haydock

Harbour Lake

12st 0lb

J: Tom Cannon

T: Alan King

Pulled up (bled from the nose) at Cheltenham Festival in March but quickly bounced back with creditable second to Long Draw there (3m, good) last month; on a tough mark now but was placed in this race last year and probably won't be far away.

9/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Straight Forecast £141.31
Tricast £2893.28

Selections

SPOTLIGHT:

Captain Conby

Daily Mirror:

HMS Seahorse

The Times:

San Salvador

The Star:

Riaan

Telegraph:

Icare Allen

The Sun:

Fil Dor

Daily Mail:

Good Risk At All

LAMBOURN:

Bold Endeavour

RP Ratings:

Langer Dan

WEST COUNTRY:

Camprond

POSTDATA:

Red Risk

TOPSPEED:

Call Me Lord

D Express:

Captain Conby

Daily Record:

HMS Seahorse

The Guardian:

San Salvador