March 15 / 17.30 Cheltenham

17.30

Soft

Weatherbys Champion Bumper (A Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race) (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £45560
  • 2m 0f 87y
  • Class 1
  • 24 runners
RTV
View Course
Weatherbys Champion Bumper (A Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race) (Grade 1) (GBB Race)

Runners: 24 runners

Type: NH Flat

Surface: Turf

Weather: Showers

Form: 111 D

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Won two minor bumpers last summer and left those efforts a country mile behind when stylishly accounting for Fact To File at Leopardstown's Dublin Racing Festival (Grade 2, yielding), since when he has been snapped up by the runner-up's owner JP McManus; his superior speed appeared to win him the day then and this race demands other qualities, but he's a strong candidate for sure.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16

1st Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 0f 0y

15:52 Leopardstown

A Dream To Share

10st 2lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: John E & Thomas Kiely

Top-class bumper horse but hasn't had a smooth run since; yet to win over hurdles but put up a decent effort last time at Punchestown; needs more but has won twice at this track and is on the shortlist.

7/1

4th

1

1st Nov 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 190y

13:00 Down Royal

A Dream To Share

11st 12lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: John E & Thomas Kiely

Top-class bumper performer in 2022-23 season; encouraging enough hurdles debut at Fairyhouse a year ago but let down by jumping on more testing ground at Naas subsequently; switched to Flat this year, notably winning Leopardstown amateur maiden (good), most recently never sighted in Naas premier handicap; back hurdling here with concerns over jumping remaining.

5/2

4th

1

1st Nov 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 190y

13:00 Down Royal

A Dream To Share

11st 12lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: John E & Thomas Kiely

Top-class bumper performer in 2022-23 season; encouraging enough hurdles debut at Fairyhouse a year ago but let down by jumping on more testing ground at Naas subsequently; switched to Flat this year, notably winning Leopardstown amateur maiden (good), most recently never sighted in Naas premier handicap; back hurdling here with concerns over jumping remaining.

5/2

Form: 12 BF

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 129

Form & Verdict
Maiden point winner who smacked of a strong stayer when winning a 2m4f soft-ground bumper at Leopardstown over Christmas and tactical speed appeared to be exposed by A Dream To Share back at 2m there last month, though he was edging closer to the winner late on; not without hope of gaining his revenge should this place a greater emphasis on stamina, and that's likely; a must for the shortlist.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

29th Apr 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 213y

18:05 Punchestown

Fact To File

11st 10lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: W P Mullins

2024 Brown Advisory winner, 2025 Ryanair winner; won the 2024 John Durkan at this venue, had a hard race when narrowly beaten by Gaelic Warrior in this season's repeat bid; failed to do himself justice in the King George; back to best when readily beating Gaelic Warrior and Galopin Des Champs in the Irish Gold Cup; fascinating rematch now after bypassing Ryanair.

5/4

1st

3

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 100y

15:30 Leopardstown

Fact To File

11st 10lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: W P Mullins

Four Grade 1 wins, including the 2024 Brown Advisory, and last season's Ryanair; narrowly denied by Gaelic Warrior in the John Durkan Memorial Chase; raced keenly and never looked like imposing his presence in the King George; three-time course winner, just lost second to Grangeclare West here 12 months ago; capable of matching that effort if on back on song.

8/1

Form: 1

Last run: 85 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 116

Form & Verdict
Has Festival winners in the family, his half-brother Sky Pirate having won a Grand Annual; comfortably won his point and wasn't overly pressed to justify odds-on favouritism on soft ground at Plumpton with subsequent winners trailing in his wake; commands respect, for all that his top trainer has saddled 12 beaten horses in this race with Al Ferof the closest he's come when runner-up in 2010.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Captain Teague

11st 10lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Has perhaps needed his two runs since a lengthy layoff, sixth to Fiercely Proud at Ascot latest; may be ready to hit top form and accordingly looks interesting off current mark when considering his back class (Grade 1 novice winner over 2m4f in December 2023).

20/1

6th

3

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 3f 63y

Class 2

14:25 Ascot

Captain Teague

11st 9lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Seemed to need latest run when back from a lengthy layoff; interesting off current mark assuming he's still capable of peak form, which includes a success in the 2023 Challow on soft ground.

5/1

2

18th Jan 2026

Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 2

14:25 Windsor

Captain Teague

11st 9lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Absent since finishing lame at Newbury in November 2024, truncating a novice chase campaign; smart previously and has Grade 1 form, including a success in the Challow (2m4f, soft) as a novice hurdler; 2-4 in this sphere; on a workable mark provided he retains ability.

14/1

Form: 2-22

Last run: 76 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 117

Form & Verdict
Officially second in all three starts having been demoted from first in the middle one, and he was readily outpaced by Fascile Mode at Leopardstown (soft); today's greater emphasis on stamina should help matters but he's not the obvious answer.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Lecky Watson

11st 2lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Unraced beyond 3m2f; came into his own as a novice last term, notably in the 3m Grade 1 at Cheltenham Festival which he won by 4l from Stellar Story; no impact at the top level in Ireland this season and he clambered over the final fence on his way to a heavy defeat behind several of today's rivals in a Grade 3 last time, so current prospects don't look so bright.

33/1

8th

1

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Lecky Watson

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Leading novice chaser last season, unbeaten in three completed starts; beat Stellar Story by 4l in the Brown Advisory but fell at the fifth at the Punchestown festival; never sighted in the John Durkan on return and soundly beaten in the Savills (ahead of Stellar Story but behind Grangeclare West); pulled up in the Irish Gold Cup last time; top-weight looks up against it.

14/1

10

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

3m 0f 100y

15:30 Leopardstown

Lecky Watson

11st 10lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

A leading novice chaser last season when unbeaten in three completed starts; took advantage of Ballyburn's failure to beat Stellar Story in the Brown Advisory at Cheltenham; fell at the fifth in a 3m1f Grade 1 event won by Champ Kiely at the Punchestown festival; never involved in the John Durkan on reappearance; soundly beaten in the Savills.

33/1

OUR TIP

Form: 1 D

Last run: 53 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 125

Form & Verdict
Made light work of a point-to-point when with Stuart Crawford last year (in these colours) and was the talk of Navan when strolling home in front by 10l there in January (soft); those he beat haven't done wonders for the form but it's hard not to be impressed and market vibes would suggest he's right up there in his stable's pecking order; one of the top contenders.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

27th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 1f 0y

12:35 Leopardstown

Its For Me

11st 12lb

J: Daryl Jacob

T: W P Mullins

led, clear when pulled up before 3rd

11/4

3

27th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 1f 0y

12:35 Leopardstown

Its For Me

11st 12lb

J: Daryl Jacob

T: W P Mullins

led, clear when pulled up before 3rd

11/4

1st

7

16th Nov 2023

Soft

2m 0f 107y

14:05 Punchestown

Its For Me

11st 12lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

raced in second, briefly led after 4 out, led again after 2 out, going best approaching last, ridden run-in, kept on well towards finish

Evs

Form: 21 D

Last run: 43 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 121

Form & Verdict
In sixth when falling three out in a point won by It's For Me; gradually built up a head of steam to floor a shorter-priced stablemate on soft ground at Limerick, with the remainder well strung out; clearly talented, but his trainer runs ten and this one would appear to be down the pecking order.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

15:45 Punchestown

Captain Cody

11st 11lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Last season's 4m Scottish National winner but mixed bag this term however, including early faller in Thyestes and most recently mistakes before unseating four out in Aintree National; hard to be confident in and handicapper not relenting.

16/1

21

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

4m 2f 74y

Class 1

16:00 Aintree

Captain Cody

10st 10lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: W P Mullins

Leopardstown seventh to Favori De Champdou at Christmas was a glimpse of what he's capable of; the performance which really gets the juices flowing, however, came in the Scottish National at Ayr (4m, good to soft) last April when very confidently ridden and unleashed to find a tremendous response on the run-in, cutting down the leader; it's very hard to rule him out after that, despite the 12lb higher mark.

16/1

5th

5

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:15 Fairyhouse

Captain Cody

11st 0lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Ended last season with Scottish National win at Ayr (4m, good to soft); very pleasing return when third to top-class Romeo Coolio in Grade 1 Drinmore here (2m4f, yielding to soft); a shade disappointing in the Paddy Power at Leopardstown when seventh (3m, yielding); well backed to land the Theyestes last time when stable first string but fell at the fifth; Townend abandons ship now but he has ability and likes this track.

6/1

Form: 1

Last run: 45 days

W: 11st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 122

Form & Verdict
Cost £125,000 after winning his point; dominant throughout when making all at Naas (2m3f, soft; hooded), beating the second with similar ease to how It's For Me disposed of the same horse at Navan; posted a smart RPR in the process and he's entitled to a second look.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

2

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Western Diego

11st 11lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Inconsistent and just one win from his nine chase starts but that came in the Grade 3 Dan & Joan Moore Memorial Handicap at Fairyhouse (2m1f, yielding) in January; weakened when fourth of 14 in a 2m1f DRF handicap, only 3l behind runner-up Golden Joy; Grand Annual faller.

12/1

10

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Western Diego

11st 0lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Inconsistent and just one win from his eight chase starts but that came in a Grade 3 novice at Fairyhouse (2m1f, yielding) in January; weakened when fourth of 14 in handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, soft) last month and today's forecast better ground could help; looks the type who may prove well suited by this big-field scenario; not discounted for top Irish stable.

16/1

4th

5

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Western Diego

11st 3lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

Struggled in his first two handicap chase attempts before getting the hang of things with experience; shaped more encouragingly when third behind Drumgill at Fairyhouse in November, and now on an upward curve following an emphatic defeat of stablemate More Coko at the same venue; fair chance of confirming form with the second on these terms.

9/2

Form: 31 D

Last run: 50 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 124

Form & Verdict
Never in much doubt when easing to a 15l success at Down Royal (soft) but the runner-up was making it 0-4 in bumpers; others in here have achieved a lot more.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

22

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

15:45 Punchestown

No Time To Wait

10st 0lb

J: Michael Kenneally

T: John C McConnell

Now 0-10 chasing and hasn't progressed from his novice season; looks to have a good bit to find.

25/1

21

12th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

No Time To Wait

10st 12lb

J: Mr J M Halford

T: John C McConnell

He's on a competitive mark on chase form as recent as last July; however, he hasn't been at his best on either outing this winter and is now 0-9 over fences; needs to raise his game in first-time blinkers (replacing a visor); well beaten in the NH Chase (3m6f) at last season's Festival.

100/1

4th

1

21st Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 2f 0y

15:45 Fairyhouse

No Time To Wait

11st 12lb

J: Michael Kenneally

T: John C McConnell

Bumper/hurdles winner for Gordon Elliott; 0-8 chasing; well beaten when unseating at the last in the Troytown at Navan (3m, heavy); better effort when 14l behind in the Paddy Power (3m, yielding) at Leopardstown; others preferred.

10/1

Form: 6-1 D

Last run: 85 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 116

Form & Verdict
Showed plenty of fighting spirit to wear down his market rival (an Elliott-trained subsequent winner) on soft ground at Naas just before Christmas; nice prospect for further down the line but the vibes aren't strong compared to some of his stablemates.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 20y

Class 2

13:43 Ayr

Loughglynn

11st 11lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

0-3 over fences but has run well in defeat the last twice and this Grade 2 novice hurdle winner is open to further improvement in this discipline, for a top Irish trainer who won this 12 months ago; respected.

7/2

2

12th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

3m 0f 20y

Class 2

13:43 Ayr

Loughglynn

11st 11lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

took keen hold, prominent

7/2

2nd

6

20th Feb 2025

Soft

2m 6f 150y

13:55 Punchestown

Loughglynn

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Two wins over hurdles, including a Grade 2 novice over 2m7f at Limerick, rated 140; satisfactory third on chase debut at this venue, 10l behind stablemate High Class Hero; unlikely to reverse that form in view of his failure to make the frame at Navan.

4/1

Form: 2 BF

Last run: 101 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 115

Form & Verdict
Won a maiden point; one of the favourites for this even before he ran at Fairyhouse (soft) where beaten just over 3l by Better Days Ahead; however, he didn't help his cause by hanging left from a good way out and he was running on again; bred to stay all day and, should this left-handed test develop into a war of attrition, he could well have a part to play.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

23rd Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 0y

15:23 Gowran Park

Chapeau De Soleil

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Signed off last season with Listed handicap hurdle success at the Punchestown Festival; finished just in front of Quai De Bourbon on last month's return but Townend seemingly prefers that stablemate again; ground versatile.

4/1

2nd

4

23rd Jan 2025

Soft

2m 4f 0y

15:23 Gowran Park

Chapeau De Soleil

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

Signed off last season with Listed handicap hurdle success at the Punchestown Festival; finished just in front of Quai De Bourbon on last month's return but Townend seemingly prefers that stablemate again; ground versatile.

4/1

2nd

5

28th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 5f 70y

13:20 Leopardstown

Chapeau De Soleil

11st 12lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

led, not fluent 6th, pecked on landing 10th

4/1

Form: 11 CD

Last run: 144 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 123

Form & Verdict
£210,000 buy after winning a 3m point; both bumper wins have worked out well, 4l clear of the now smart novice hurdler Strong Leader here in October (off steady fractions); shrewd trainer rates him highly and this 5yo could be a big player if coping with the ground (unraced on softer than good to yielding).
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

5

1st Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 2

15:40 Musselburgh

Encanto Bruno

11st 5lb

J: Alex Harvey

T: John C McConnell

Career peak was in October 2023 on first start for Gavin Cromwell and he was well beaten when runner-up over fences last April and June; unraced beyond 2m4f under rules and now wears a hood for the first time; back with John McConnell, with whom he started his career.

25/1

Form: 1-12 CD BF

Last run: 36 days

W: 11st 0lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 120

Form & Verdict
Disappointing to see her come up shy when odds-on for a mares' Listed event at Market Rasen last month (good to soft), even with her conceding weight all round; beat good horses in winning her first two starts here but that latest reversal tempers enthusiasm and it could also be that good ground suits her best.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

12th Apr 2026

Good

1m 7f 149y

Class 3

16:30 Wincanton

Queens Gamble

12st 0lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

A winner at Listed level in bumpers, over hurdles and fences; jumped particularly well when flooring odds-on Bluey here in February (heavy) and again ran well behind a sharp improver at Doncaster six weeks ago (soft; off 1lb higher); has won on good ground; very solid.

11/8

2nd

4

28th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 0f 78y

Class 2

13:55 Doncaster

Queens Gamble

10st 10lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Looked hot property in bumpers and has won at Listed level in that scene and over hurdles and fences; appreciated the drop back to 1m7f (heavy; versatile ground-wise) when flooring a talented favourite on her third chase start at Wincanton where her jumping was slick throughout; the close proximity of the third horse (rated way lower) in that Listed race holds the form down, but this mare has shown she can deal with her current mark.

3/1

1st

5

14th Feb 2026

1m 7f 149y

Class 1

13:05 Wincanton

Queens Gamble

11st 2lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Dual Listed winner (bumper/hurdle), who is unexposed over fences and ran well for a long way when third of six in a Musselburgh handicap (2m4f, good to soft) 13 days ago; wasn't far off her best with that promising effort and she's respected on this drop back in trip.

7/4

Form: 14 D

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 121

Form & Verdict
Delivered from off the pace to win comfortably on soft ground at Leopardstown over Christmas but failed to find anything on that form when behind some of these on last month's return visit; probably playing for the places if he's lucky.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

25th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Cheltenham

Fascile Mode

10st 13lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

A little in the doldrums before finishing second in a 2m6f Listed handicap hurdle at Galway in August and then ran well to be third in a chase at Sligo, though old jumping issues resurfaced late on; that part of his game will be tested around here in this big field and he might not stay the trip anyway.

20/1

1

1st Oct 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 5f 27y

16:43 Sligo

Fascile Mode

11st 10lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Bounced back to form with a fine effort in a listed handicap hurdle at the Galway Festival in August; jumping has been an issue at times in this sphere and with a rating of 133, has a lot to find with Jesse Evans on the figures.

15/2

2nd

8

2nd Aug 2025

Good

2m 6f 108y

15:12 Galway

Fascile Mode

11st 5lb

J: Jake Coen

T: Thomas Mullins

Has been out of form since winning a beginners' chase at Punchestown (16.5f, gd-yld) last October, though has been highly tried at times; unproven over this far and has questions to answer right now.

25/1

Form: 11 D

Last run: 32 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 122

Form & Verdict
Won by clear daylight at Southwell (soft) and Warwick (good) but tackles a very different calibre of opposition on this severe rise in class; falls into the 'could be anything' category but unlikely to be good enough.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

1

25th Apr 2026

Good

2m 3f 178y

Class 2

17:15 Sandown

Favour And Fortune

12st 0lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Alan King

Seen only twice this season but posted career-best performance when close third of 22 at Aintree (2m4f, good to soft) a fortnight ago, despite Tom Bellamy's saddle slipping after the last; respected.

6/1

3rd

1

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Favour And Fortune

12st 0lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Alan King

Acts on any going; successful in major handicap at Ayr two years ago; his two attempts at Aintree were good efforts in the 2023 Formby (second to highly notable rival) and this race last year (finished third); each-way claims back here with Kempton reappearance under his belt.

11/1

6th

1

21st Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 3

13:10 Kempton

Favour And Fortune

12st 2lb

J: Tom Bellamy

T: Alan King

Won the Scottish Champion Hurdle (2m, soft) in April 2024 and showed he stays 2m4f when a good third of 20 at Aintree last spring; not ruled out but he'll need a career best to defy topweight after 11 months off.

13/2

Form: 11 D

Last run: 38 days

W: 11st 0lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 125

Form & Verdict
Has won both her starts by roughly 10l and the further she went the better she looked in a Grade 2 for mares at Leopardstown (yielding) last month; Fayonagh and Relegate were successful mares in the last six years; player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

20th Feb 2026

Heavy

3m 0f 54y

Class 1

15:14 Exeter

Fun Fun Fun

11st 4lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Front-runner who had a Grade 3 novice at Limerick (3m, yielding to soft; has won on heavy) last March among three chase wins last term; below form both starts (hurdle/chase) this season but latest, in which she did not lead, was a step back in the right direction; the chase form pick even on that result.

4/6

1st

1

23rd Apr 2025

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 1

15:18 Perth

Fun Fun Fun

11st 2lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

One of two runners for Willie Mullins; useful mare who took her chase record to 2-3 with an easy success in Grade 3 novice at Limerick (upped to 3m) most recently; top on ratings.

4/5

1st

1

23rd Apr 2025

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 1

15:18 Perth

Fun Fun Fun

11st 2lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

One of two runners for Willie Mullins; useful mare who took her chase record to 2-3 with an easy success in Grade 3 novice at Limerick (upped to 3m) most recently; top on ratings.

4/5

Form: 21 D

Last run: 101 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 123

Form & Verdict
Won his point before changing hands for £350,000 here during this week last year; fluffed his lines when turned over at long odds-on at Down Royal in November, but he looked good at Fairyhouse (soft) when just over 3l in front of a hanging Chapeau De Soleil and this has been the main target ever since; has the potential to settle better than last time and he seems held in high regard by an owner/trainer combination that had the second last year and the third three seasons back.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

1

28th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 4f 90y

16:08 Navan

Better Days Ahead

11st 8lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Won the 2024 Martin Pipe, then third to Dancing City in 3m Grade 1 at Punchestown; won two small-field Grade 2 chases at this venue last season and finished third in the Brown Advisory; sixth in the Irish Grand National; returned with a satisfactory second behind a shorter-priced stablemate in the Boyne Hurdle here; capable sort is again the stable's number two.

7/2

2nd

5

8th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 5f 180y

14:50 Navan

Better Days Ahead

11st 3lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Won the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham two seasons ago, then third to Dancing City in 3m Grade 1 at Punchestown; won two small-field Grade 2 chases at this venue last season and finished third in the Brown Advisory; sixth in the Irish Grand National, running off a mark of 154; hurdles rating of 145 is the lowest of this sextet.

9/2

6th

1

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

3m 5f 37y

17:00 Fairyhouse

Better Days Ahead

11st 12lb

J: Mr R James

T: Gordon Elliott

Won the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham last year, then third to Dancing City in 3m Grade 1 at Punchestown; 2-4 over fences, including Grade 2 at Navan over 3m on soft to heavy, when jumped notably well; on better ground, failed to confirm form with Stellar Story when third in the Brown Advisory; big burden for a novice, rider's 7lb claim a major asset.

11/1

Form: 11 C

Last run: 73 days

W: 10st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 117

Form & Verdict
Bought for £125,000 after a successful debut at Market Rasen when trained by Don Cantillon; useful prospect after supplementing that success in a Listed event here (soft) but the form looks well short of the standard required for this; only Cue Card has won this as a 4yo since 1995.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

6

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Fiercely Proud

11st 11lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Ben Pauling

Has gained both handicap wins in useful contests at Ascot (1m7f/2m3f); something to prove back at Aintree and finished behind some of today's rivals at the Cheltenham Festival (2m4f, soft) last time.

25/1

12th

9

13th Mar 2026

Good

2m 4f 56y

Class 2

17:20 Cheltenham

Fiercely Proud

11st 8lb

J: Callum Pritchard

T: Ben Pauling

Has gained both handicap wins in useful races at Ascot, including latest start when upped to 2m3f (good to soft) and back to best; back on career-high mark but is unexposed at this sort of trip and not necessarily track dependent; has bits of Cheltenham form, including a bumper success.

16/1

1st

5

14th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 3f 63y

Class 2

14:25 Ascot

Fiercely Proud

11st 4lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Ben Pauling

Folded tamely last time when bidding to land a notable Ascot handicap (1m7f) for the second year running; capable of being involved on best form and has sometimes shaped as if this new trip is worth exploring.

12/1

Form: 1 D

Last run: 48 days

W: 10st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 120

Form & Verdict
Looked as though he might drop out of the picture before getting his second wind and running on well to prevail narrowly at Gowran (soft/heavy) in January, with the first two well clear; that doesn't look good enough, though.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

7th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 7f 0y

18:38 Wexford

D Art D Art

11st 12lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Thomas Cooper

125-rated hurdler was in good form 2024/25 season, winning twice and running well in 3m Pertemps Final at Cheltenham; well below that level in light campaign last season however and now tries fences.

12/1

14th

7

5th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 0y

15:00 Cork

D Art D Art

11st 5lb

J: Ricky Doyle

T: Thomas Cooper

Was in great form last season, running a cracker in the Pertemps Final at Cheltenham; however, he has been poor in two runs this term and could find this trip sharp.

22/1

Form: 15

Last run: 39 days

W: 11st 7lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 120

Form & Verdict
Dead-heated for first in his point and entered plenty of notebooks when impressive 10l winner over 2m2f on heavy at Limerick; major reality check when well behind A Dream To Share at Leopardstown (yielding; 9-2) and although returning to deeper conditions can only help, he's still probably up against it.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

6th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

3m 0f 120y

17:40 Fairyhouse

Chosen Witness

11st 8lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: W P Mullins

0-8 over fences and hasn't won since scoring over hurdles at Ayr in April 2024; failed to complete in two of three starts this season and beaten 63l at Leopardstown when he did get around; top yard and mark tumbling but hard to make a case for on form.

10/1

10

8th Mar 2026

Heavy

3m 0f 174y

16:02 Naas

Chosen Witness

10st 3lb

J: Sean Cleary-Farrell

T: W P Mullins

Point, bumper and dual hurdles winner has been out of form in final runs of last season and outings in this; pulled up on seasonal debut at Cork and tailed off in a grade 3 handicap at Leopardstown when last seen at 80-1; needs to come back to his best.

33/1

16th

14

1st Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

Chosen Witness

10st 6lb

J: Mr Elliot Ohgren

T: W P Mullins

Dual hurdle winner is yet to score in six chase starts and was poor the last three times, so isn't easy to make a case for.

33/1

Form: 41 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 112

Form & Verdict
Strolled home in front by 16l at Chepstow (good to soft) but the rating he posted leaves him with a mountain to climb in this stronger company.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20

2nd May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 104y

15:45 Punchestown

Beachcomber

10st 2lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Last win came in 3m Kempton handicap in Christmas of 2024; third to Bill Baxter in this race last year but not at best this season, chasing home a clear winner at Ludlow last time (only two finishers); 7lb lower than last year so don't rule out.

14/1

2nd

6

30th Mar 2026

Good

2m 7f 171y

Class 3

15:57 Ludlow

Beachcomber

11st 2lb

J: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Appeared to get his campaign back on track when third over hurdles at Musselburgh (3m, good to soft) and, when a 10l fifth over C&D since, he was softened up by getting competitive a good way out; he doesn't have a convincing profile but his pure ability is respected.

7/1

5th

1

26th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 171y

Class 3

14:07 Ludlow

Beachcomber

12st 1lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Out of form over fences this season but turned things around with creditable third over hurdles at Musselburgh (3m good to soft) last month and it will be interesting to see whether he can build on that performance on this return to chasing.

7/1

Form: 1 D

Last run: 60 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 119

Form & Verdict
Another odds-on debut winner from this yard when prevailing by 3l at Fairyhouse (soft/heavy), where he settled better once sent to the front early on and was merely shaken up; has a good bit to find on the figures but there's no knocking a winning start and ten of this race's 30 winners had raced just the once, so inexperience is not to be frowned upon.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

29th Sep 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 147y

16:35 Roscommon

Westport Cove

11st 1lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Smart hurdler, though with an inferior mark to King Of Kingsfield; however, he's already a better chaser and after dominating Itsalladream at Ballinrobe he was runner-up (from the front) in a Grade 3 at Galway; standout claims.

8/11

2nd

8

31st Jul 2025

Good

2m 2f 54y

14:10 Galway

Westport Cove

11st 1lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Decent hurdler is a higher-rated chaser despite just one win from six attempts, unchallenged in beating Itsalladream at Ballinrobe in May (good) on latest; posted higher RPR's in defeat earlier under similar forcing tactics, notably fourth in valuable 2m1f Plumpton handicap; Townend's pick but possibly vulnerable at this level.

7/2

10

26th May 2025

Good

2m 1f 54y

18:00 Ballinrobe

Westport Cove

11st 12lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Useful hurdler, though won only once from eight starts; 0-5 over fences and appears flattered by an official rating of 140; made a couple of mistakes when beaten favourite (fourth) for a Plumpton handicap five weeks ago; reproduction of neck second to Aspire Tower at Wexford might be enough in this company.

11/8

Form: 15 D BF

Last run: 76 days

W: 11st 7lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 122

Form & Verdict
Won his point by a distance but more workmanlike than flashy in winning at Down Royal (soft) before Leopardstown was most disappointing (behind Fascile Mode and Lecky Watson); his attitude in the first-time hood also raised a few eyebrows and that aid is left at home this time; back to the drawing board and also worth noting that his owners don't prioritise this race, with just six runners down the years and fourth easily their best finish.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

3

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

12:45 Aintree

King Of Kingsfield

11st 7lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Won three of first five races over fences, including a Grade 3 novice at Punchestown (2m2f, good to yielding) in October, but has made mistakes and run poorly at Cheltenham and Newbury since; perhaps he'll be revived by a break and cheekpieces, but he has plenty to find on the figures.

40/1

2

24th Oct 2025

Good

1m 7f 199y

Class 2

13:50 Cheltenham

King Of Kingsfield

11st 12lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Won two in a row this summer when back over fences (2m2f/2m1f, good) and landed a Grade 3 novice at Punchestown (2m2f, good to yielding) last week; seems versatile ground-wise and he's a key player today.

9/4

Form: 1 D

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 115

Form & Verdict
Flat-bred gelding from the family of Enable; needed a good bit of encouragement to get competitive at Naas (yielding) but he drew nicely clear at the finish; lots more needed, however, and this is a big ask for 4yos.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

(6)

12th Jul 2025

Good

1m 5f 188y

Class 1

15:45 York

Samui

9st 0lb

J: Hollie Doyle

T: Gordon Elliott

Twice ran well in defeat at Royal Ascot last month, finishing third in the Copper Horse Handicap (1m6f, good to firm) and second in the Queen Alexandra (2m5f, good to firm; albeit no match for the winner); could give a good account but needs others to underperform if he's to come out on top.

6/1

3

(7)

21st Jun 2025

Good To Firm

2m 5f 143y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Samui

9st 4lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Gordon Elliott

Proven in this headgear; pays his way under both codes and, if able to reproduce his effort here on Tuesday when hitting the line well for third in the 1m6f Copper Horse Stakes (good to firm), then he won't be far away on these favourable terms; the grey areas are inconsistency and the extra 7f (he did run over 3m over jumps) but he's one of only a few with realistic ambitions of winning.

11/2

3

(5)

17th Jun 2025

Good

1m 6f 34y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Samui

9st 9lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Gordon Elliott

In rude health last summer, including when second off this mark in competitive handicap at York (2m, good to firm); won over hurdles in January but his form has been mixed since across both codes; below best back on Flat last time.

20/1

Form: 13 D

Last run: 32 days

W: 10st 11lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 121

Form & Verdict
Won a weak race at Fakenham when with top Flat trainer Roger Varian; did well to finish third at Newbury (good) given how freely he raced but this task looks well beyond him; now hooded.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

13

15th Nov 2024

Good

2m 0f 87y

Class 3

16:00 Cheltenham

Shinji

10st 12lb

J: Daire McConville

T: Martin Keighley

Came good over hurdles in low-grade Southwell handicap (2m, good) in June and has remained in good nick since (2m-2m5f) but others in this line-up have stronger form and/or more potential.

25/1

14th

13

15th Nov 2024

Good

2m 0f 87y

Class 3

16:00 Cheltenham

Shinji

10st 12lb

J: Daire McConville

T: Martin Keighley

Came good over hurdles in low-grade Southwell handicap (2m, good) in June and has remained in good nick since (2m-2m5f) but others in this line-up have stronger form and/or more potential.

25/1

5th

7

7th Nov 2024

Good

2m 5f 55y

Class 4

12:40 Ludlow

Shinji

11st 2lb

J: Mr Freddie Keighley

T: Martin Keighley

Southwell winner in June (2m, good) but was no match for Parikarma next time and again wasn't at his best when a beaten favourite at Perth; cheekpieces are replaced by a hood that hasn't done wonders for him previously; stamina to prove over this far.

15/2

Non-runners

King Of Kingsfield, Samui, Shinji

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Straight Forecast £13.97
Tricast £414.09

Selections

RP Ratings:

A Dream To Share

POSTDATA:

Fact To File

The Times:

It's For Me

TOPSPEED:

Fascile Mode

The Star:

Fun Fun Fun

LAMBOURN:

Queens Gamble

The Guardian:

Encanto Bruno

SPOTLIGHT:

Better Days Ahead

WEST COUNTRY:

Captain Teague

Daily Mirror:

A Dream To Share

The Sun:

A Dream To Share

Daily Record:

A Dream To Share

Telegraph:

It's For Me

Daily Mail:

Fact To File

D Express:

Fact To File