March 17 / 14.10 Cheltenham

14.10

Soft

McCoy Contractors County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £56270
  • 2m 0f 179y
  • Class 1
  • 28 runners
ITV
View Course
McCoy Contractors County Handicap Hurdle (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 28 runners

Type: Hurdle Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Light rain

40/1 (Won)

  • Win: £66.40
  • Place: £10.40

Form: 305-4P C

Last run: 34 days

W: 10st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
His mark continues to fall and he didn't run badly on his reappearance at Kempton in December; however, he's since been pulled up at 25-1 in the Betfair Hurdle and needs to leave that performance miles behind.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

14

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Faivoir

11st 4lb

J: Miss Heidi Palin

T: Dan Skelton

Has lots of form in major handicaps, generally at about 2m, but losing spell goes back three years and he looks unlikely to land this hot contest at the age of 11; remote third at Newbury most recently.

40/1

3rd

5

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 0f 69y

Class 1

15:20 Newbury

Faivoir

11st 8lb

J: Miss Heidi Palin

T: Dan Skelton

Missed last term; useful on his day (County winner) but is into the veteran stage and not particularly solid on this season's form, for all that he was placed in the Greatwood; beaten twice in this contest (pulled up in 2023, fifth in 2024).

33/1

16/1

  • Place: £2.60

Form: 2-1154 CD

Last run: 40 days

W: 11st 13lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 154

Form & Verdict
Won Grade 2 juvenile hurdle over C&D last January before good third in the Triumph at the Festival; won twice in the autumn (here, then Down Royal Grade 2) and was a creditable fourth of five in the Irish Champion Hurdle last month, but he looks to be on a tough mark in his first handicap hurdle.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 5f 56y

Class 2

15:20 Cheltenham

Pied Piper

10st 7lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Gordon Elliott

Gained all three chase wins in small-field novice events last April-June; not beaten far when ninth of 28 in valuable Leopardstown handicap won by Favori De Champdou over Christmas (3m, yielding; wore usual cheekpieces) and seemed to be running well when falling at third-last fence in the Thyestes at Gowran (3m1f, heavy; blinkered) in January; has stamina to prove on cross-country debut but not ruled out; cheekpieces back on today.

25/1

9

22nd Jan 2026

Heavy

3m 1f 0y

15:30 Gowran Park

Pied Piper

11st 4lb

J: Kevin Healy

T: Gordon Elliott

Smart hurdler in his early days; all three chase wins recorded in small-field events between April and June last year; failed to prosper in Grade 3 events before livelier displays at Cheltenham and when fifth behind Answer To Kayf in the Troytown; no impact in the Grade 1 Drinmore at Fairhouse; no threat from the last when ninth in the Paddy Power.

33/1

1

25th Oct 2025

Good To Soft

3m 1f 0y

Class 2

16:05 Cheltenham

Pied Piper

11st 10lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Hit the ground running over fences with three wins in small fields (2m4f-2m7f) but now on a recovery mission after three blips, admittedly at Grade 3 level; would be a strong contender on these terms if back on song.

5/1

11/2

  • Place: £2.20

Form: 33-112 D BF

Last run: 34 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
After a long layoff he showed significant improvement to win first two starts for this yard at the end of last year (good/good to soft), before a clear second to Aucunrisque in last month's Betfair Hurdle at Newbury (2m, good); could have more to offer for his excellent trainer and is a likely player up 8lb provided the forecast soft ground isn't an issue; tongue-tie goes on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

(23)

12th Oct 2025

Yielding

2m 0f 7y

16:20 Naas

Filey Bay

9st 2lb

J: Gary Carroll

T: Emmet Mullins

One of two for trainer; dual-hurdles winner got his second Flat win at Galway in July when an easy winner of an amateur contest (2m1f, yielding); struggled off 10lb higher in the Irish Cesarewitch last time and drops 2lb now.

18/1

16

(6)

28th Sep 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 170y

16:22 Curragh

Filey Bay

9st 5lb

J: Rory Mulligan

T: Emmet Mullins

Plundered a nice pot at Galway (2m1f, yielding) when last seen in July; got hit with a 10lb hike for that so this 9yo will need to produce a career best to follow up but that's not impossible given who trains him; respected.

17/2

17

(3)

28th Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 179y

18:40 Galway

Filey Bay

11st 0lb

J: Mr Alan O’Sullivan

T: Emmet Mullins

142-rated hurdler has run only five times on the Flat; odds-on winner of a Tramore maiden on good ground in August 2023, close-up fourth on handicap debut in the 2023 Naas November Handicap; did not appear again until finishing in mid-division at the Curragh last month.

16/1

9/1

  • Place: £2.50

Form: 11-232 D BF

Last run: 27 days

W: 12st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
10yo who carries top weight in this red-hot handicap and hasn't quite been at his very best this term, following an absence; however, this two-time Champion Hurdle runner-up won two Grade 1s last season and may retain sufficient ability to be a serious force off today's mark; versatile ground-wise.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

6

30th Apr 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 213y

18:00 Punchestown

Sharjah

11st 10lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

High-class hurdler had been mixing it at the top level over fences this season at shorter trips before third chase win when dropped in grade at Ayr 10 days ago, patiently ridden and seeing the 3m out well when giving away lumps of weight in novice handicap; drying ground should help his cause and not one to rule out.

10/1

6th

6

30th Apr 2024

Yielding

3m 0f 213y

18:00 Punchestown

Sharjah

11st 10lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

High-class hurdler had been mixing it at the top level over fences this season at shorter trips before third chase win when dropped in grade at Ayr 10 days ago, patiently ridden and seeing the 3m out well when giving away lumps of weight in novice handicap; drying ground should help his cause and not one to rule out.

10/1

1st

1

20th Apr 2024

Soft

3m 0f 20y

Class 2

13:50 Ayr

Sharjah

12st 0lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Top-class hurdler who has shown a good level of form over fences, banging his head against a wall in Grade 1s in his last four appearances; finished fourth in last season's County Hurdle in his last handicap assignment and that was off an 8lb higher mark; may run well, though stamina could be an issue on this belated first run beyond 2m4f.

10/1

Form: 505-03 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 11st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 148

Form & Verdict
Has run with credit at the last two Festivals (soft/good to soft) and, although he's 4lb higher than when 6l fifth in this race last year, he may have finished closer that day granted a clearer passage on the turn for home; arrives on the back of a solid third at Leopardstown; each-way player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

1

(4)

31st May 2026

Good

2m 0f 40y

16:50 Listowel

Ballyadam

10st 4lb

J: W J Lee

T: Henry De Bromhead

Good quality NH performer, including when good fourth in BetMGM Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham; took the runner-up spot in a Ballinrobe maiden (1m5f, good to yielding) last time when 7l behind the winner; must carry top weight for Flat handicap debut but big chance.

11/4

2nd

1

(1)

8th May 2026

Yielding To Soft

1m 4f 183y

19:52 Ballinrobe

Ballyadam

10st 7lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: Henry De Bromhead

High-class NH performer, most recently good fourth in BetMGM Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham; two previous Flat runs were on the Dundalk AW, notably previous month when 2l third of 10 over 1m4f; ground no problem, not sure the tight track will suit.

13/2

4th

2

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Ballyadam

11st 11lb

J: Patrick M O’Brien

T: Henry De Bromhead

Fifth in two editions of the County Hurdle here before his second and third in the last two runnings of this race, which is quite something; has a 1lb higher mark than last year; well held in his only hurdle race this term but placed in Flat maidens either side, and has to be in place calculations.

18/1

Form: P-2137 D

Last run: 34 days

W: 11st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Easily made all in Ascot handicap (1m7f, good) last October then ran as well as could be expected behind Constitution Hill in Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle (2m, soft); however, went up the weights for his Ascot win and was soundly beaten in the Betfair Hurdle last time; needs a career best today.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

3

22nd Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:25 Ayr

Highway One O Two

11st 5lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Chris Gordon

Won easily at Ascot (1m7f, good) earlier this season and showed that he can live with his new mark when faring best of those in here who contested the County Hurdle at Cheltenham (good to soft); did well to finish sixth after forcing the pace throughout (as is his way) and easy to see him going well.

10/1

6th

11

17th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 0f 179y

Class 1

14:10 Cheltenham

Highway One O Two

11st 2lb

J: Mr Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Easily made all in Ascot handicap (1m7f, good) last October then ran as well as could be expected behind Constitution Hill in Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle (2m, soft); however, went up the weights for his Ascot win and was soundly beaten in the Betfair Hurdle last time; needs a career best today.

40/1

7th

3

11th Feb 2023

Good

2m 0f 69y

Class 1

15:35 Newbury

Highway One O Two

11st 9lb

J: Gavin Sheehan

T: Chris Gordon

Well-held third in the Christmas Hurdle on Boxing Day (stiff task); made all to comfortably beat Hacker Des Places, who admittedly lacked recent match practice, in Ascot handicap (1m7f, good) the time before; has an 8lb higher mark and deeper field to contend with.

20/1

Form: P-32P5 D

Last run: 27 days

W: 10st 13lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Ex-French 5yo who is 0-5 since winning on British debut in three-runner handicap at Market Rasen (2m, soft) last February; however, there have been some encouraging runs in 2m3f/2m4f handicaps and he's hinted that he may be ideally suited by a strongly run race over a stiff 2m1f; a possible.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

17

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Petit Tonnerre

11st 2lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Out of form since his 16-1 win in this race last year; possibly back on a competitive mark now, only 3lb higher than 12 months ago; however, needs to step up on the form of his Aintree run.

10/1

7th

10

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

Petit Tonnerre

10st 12lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Soundly beaten ninth in this 12 months ago (good to soft) and tailed off on his last three starts; however, the return to better ground can help and he won a big-field handicap at Punchestown (2m, yielding) last May; on a handy mark judged on that Irish form and he's not discounted.

20/1

5th

2

21st Feb 2026

Soft

2m 0f 16y

Class 2

15:40 Chepstow

Petit Tonnerre

11st 8lb

J: Kevin Brogan

T: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Beat 22 rivals to win at Punchestown festival (2m, yielding) last May but looked out of sorts on both appearances since returning from a break in November and needs to turn a corner.

10/1

Form: 222-0P D

Last run: 13 days

W: 10st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Grade 2 novice hurdle runner-up earlier in career and his saddle slipped when pulled up mid-race on recent stable debut in the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso (18-1); however, he was well beaten on the Flat last year on his final two runs for Philip Hobbs and is probably best watched today.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

8

15th May 2026

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 3

18:20 Aintree

Luttrell Lad

10st 12lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Tom Lacey

Won at Exeter and then a close fourth at Sandown (2m4f, good); could put a line through his subsequent races on account of heavy ground and a trip too far; respected.

14/1

4th

7

20th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 57y

Class 3

15:32 Newbury

Luttrell Lad

11st 1lb

J: Alice Stevens

T: Tom Lacey

Won at Exeter (2m2f) in November and creditable fourth at Sandown (2m4f) next time, before heavy ground might excuse his latest start; this, however, is his first foray beyond 2m6f, after 37 races and at the age of ten.

16/1

4th

4

7th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 5f 5y

Class 3

16:10 Warwick

Luttrell Lad

11st 3lb

J: Cameron Iles

T: Tom Lacey

November's Exeter win looked unlikely but he stayed on much the best over 2m2f on good to soft; not beaten far off this 6lb higher mark at Sandown (2m4f, good) when close up behind Henri The Second who won easily back there last weekend; thoroughly exposed but enters the equation for sure; has won on heavy.

15/2

Form: 196042 D

Last run: 23 days

W: 11st 2lb

7 yo Mare

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Five-time hurdle winner who was fourth of 17 in a Leopardstown handicap (2m, yielding) last month before again running well when runner-up in a mares' Grade 3 at Punchestown (2m4f, yielding); however, she needs to be better than ever if she's to win this and soft ground would be a likely negative.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

19

12th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

2m 5f 0y

Class 1

14:40 Cheltenham

Anna Bunina

10st 11lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: John C McConnell

Usually claimer ridden but now has Harry Cobden; the last of her ten wins was in August 2022; still shows plenty on occasions, including when seventh in the Pertemps Final last March and a close second back at Cheltenham (2m4f, good) three starts back; pulled up with cheekpieces enlisted on latest start; that headgear is now discarded but she's not the percentage call.

33/1

2

22nd Feb 2025

Soft

2m 7f 131y

Class 2

14:32 Chepstow

Anna Bunina

11st 9lb

J: Callum Pritchard

T: John C McConnell

Usually claimer ridden; the last of her ten wins was in August 2022; still shows plenty on occasions, including when seventh in the Pertemps Final last March and a close second back at Cheltenham (2m4f) on penultimate outing; she performed far worse in the Musselburgh qualifier three weeks ago than she did last year, however, which sees cheekpieces enlisted.

20/1

8th

2

2nd Feb 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 2

15:00 Musselburgh

Anna Bunina

12st 0lb

J: Callum Pritchard

T: John C McConnell

The last of her ten wins was in August 2022 but she still shows plenty on occasions, including when a strong-finishing fourth in this race last year and a close second at Cheltenham (2m4f) on latest outing; usually claimer ridden; place contender.

10/1

25/1

Form: 33-323 D BF

Last run: 81 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Beaten at 4-6 in slowly run, small-field conditions hurdle at Limerick (2m4f, soft to heavy) in December, but was previously a good second of 17 in Fairyhouse handicap (2m, soft); this lightly raced 7yo should be suited by the likely strong pace in this big field and is worthy of each-way respect.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13th

3

2nd Feb 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

Pinkerton

11st 9lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Noel Meade

Last summer's Galway Plate winner has posted better RPR's in defeat in finishing second in Grade 2 at Down Royal and here at Christmas when staying-on third in 3m Paddy Power Handicap; not sure he wants ground this soft but respected.

7/1

13th

3

2nd Feb 2025

Yielding

2m 5f 107y

14:45 Leopardstown

Pinkerton

11st 9lb

J: Donagh Meyler

T: Noel Meade

Last summer's Galway Plate winner has posted better RPR's in defeat in finishing second in Grade 2 at Down Royal and here at Christmas when staying-on third in 3m Paddy Power Handicap; not sure he wants ground this soft but respected.

7/1

3rd

6

27th Dec 2024

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 100y

15:00 Leopardstown

Pinkerton

11st 9lb

J: Mr R James

T: Noel Meade

visibility reduced by fog, towards rear, hampered by faller 5th

16/1

OUR TIP

Form: 11-311 D

Last run: 33 days

W: 11st 6lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Won a maiden at Naas (2m, soft) in January on third hurdle start and again had plenty in hand in Listed novice at Navan (2m, good to yielding) last month; his opening mark is a lofty one and he could do with jumping better in this red-hot handicap, but his top trainer has won two of the last three runnings of this race with inexperienced novices; could play leading role.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6

5th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

3m 0f 180y

17:30 Fairyhouse

Hunters Yarn

12st 0lb

J: Mr Finian Maguire

T: P M J Doyle

Three bumper wins, once for this yard, twice for Willie Mullins; three wins over jumps for Mullins before losing his way; has prospered in points this term for his original trainer, winning three from four, the exception a Dromahane third when he made a few mistakes; no disgrace in losing out to Panda Boy at Naas; harder to overlook Gowran defeat

5/2

2nd

2

7th Mar 2026

Heavy

3m 1f 0y

16:53 Gowran Park

Hunters Yarn

12st 0lb

J: Mr A P Ryan

T: P M J Doyle

Three bumper wins, once for this yard, twice for Willie Mullins; three wins over jumps for Mullins before losing his way; has prospered in points this term for his original trainer, winning three from four, the exception a Dromahane third when he made a few mistakes; no disgrace in losing out to the Cheltenham-bound Panda Boy at Naas; can uphold form with Ryehill.

11/8

Form: /21F-3

Last run: 112 days

W: 10st 7lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Midfield in Champion Bumper in 2021 and showed plenty of promise in light novice hurdle campaign last term (2m3f-2m5f, soft/good to soft); respectable third of four in Grade 2 novice chase (2m4f, good) in November on sole run this season and could have potential off this mark; cheekpieces go on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

13

1st May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Wonderwall

12st 0lb

J: Mr R James

T: S Curling

Has run only three times since beating Its On The Line at Cheltenham last season; winner of points at Dromahane in November and 19 days ago, that recent display providing reassurance after a disappointingly lifeless Cheltenham defence; leading contender for the stable that has dominated the point-to-point scene this season.

3/1

7th

23

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Wonderwall

12st 0lb

J: Mr R James

T: S Curling

4-4 since bought for £33,000 in July 2024 and he emerged from midfield to win this last year (good to soft; effective on softer), fending off the late charge of Its On The Line; has undergone a similar preparation, arriving here fresh after winning a point in early November; there have been back-to-back winners of this race and a bold defence looks on the cards.

11/2

1st

23

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Wonderwall

12st 0lb

J: Mr R James

T: S Curling

Only three runs over regulation fences but he was third in a Grade 2 in 2022 and fourth in a good novice handicap here in late 2023; signed off for the Bowen yard last summer with respectable runs over hurdles and hasn't been overly pressed to win two small-field points in Ireland for this stable; positive jockey booking and brings each-way hopes provided a 131-day break doesn't come back to bite him.

25/1

Form: 240-51 D

Last run: 80 days

W: 11st 11lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Fourth in last year's Pertemps Final (3m, soft) for Emmet Mullins and won easily at Leopardstown (2m, soft) in December when taking a marked drop back in trip on stable debut; could have more to offer at this sort of trip but he's been hit hard by the handicapper which may makes things difficult.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

4

1st Nov 2025

Good

3m 0f 26y

Class 1

14:22 Wetherby

Winter Fog

11st 2lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

11yo who appeared to be outstayed when fourth, beaten about 8l, in the Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle at Punchestown (extended 2m7f, yielding) in May; however, that was still a good performance in today's context and he's fit from the Flat; possible player for top Irish stable.

8/1

4th

4

1st Nov 2025

Good

3m 0f 26y

Class 1

14:22 Wetherby

Winter Fog

11st 2lb

J: Brian Hayes

T: W P Mullins

11yo who appeared to be outstayed when fourth, beaten about 8l, in the Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle at Punchestown (extended 2m7f, yielding) in May; however, that was still a good performance in today's context and he's fit from the Flat; possible player for top Irish stable.

8/1

14

(11)

11th Oct 2025

Good

2m 2f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket

Winter Fog

8st 5lb

J: Sean D Bowen

T: W P Mullins

Aged 11 but he's a seriously unexposed, dark horse on Flat; smart hurdles form in Grade 1s in August 2024-May 2025; three Irish maiden races are all he's contested on Flat, when runner-up twice last year (2m/1m6f) and winning by a short head this August (2m) but he's not been hit hard with this opening Flat mark and having Willie Mullins as his trainer demands respect.

12/1

8/1

Form: /1-212 D BF

Last run: 124 days

W: 10st 8lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 135

Form & Verdict
Defied his inexperience when second of 25 in Punchestown handicap (2m, good to yielding) last April, and was a clear second in the Greatwood here (2m, good) in November when last seen; showed promise on very soft ground when trained in France; this unexposed and progressive 7yo could be in the mix.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

8

11th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 7f 0y

19:37 Killarney

Gin Coco

11st 7lb

J: Mr T O’Connor

T: Turlough O’Connor

Good hurdle form not all that long ago and has run well in both his points behind the classy Wonderwall (ahead of Lifetime Ambition on one of those occasions); this is his debut over regulation fences but could have a part to play.

8/1

17th

10

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Gin Coco

11st 2lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Fairly useful at about 2m and gained sole handicap success off this mark; however, along with several other runners he goes into unknown territory over 2m4f.

33/1

17th

10

4th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

14:20 Aintree

Gin Coco

11st 2lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Fairly useful at about 2m and gained sole handicap success off this mark; however, along with several other runners he goes into unknown territory over 2m4f.

33/1

Form: 11-3P8 D

Last run: 33 days

W: 10st 12lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Promising novice last season, the highlight a Grade 3 win at Naas (1m7f, soft) last March; he was over fences when below par on his first two runs this season, and 2m5f stretched him when back over hurdles in a Grade 2 at Navan last month, but his claims aren't compelling.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

24th

1

30th Nov 2024

Yielding

2m 4f 55y

15:05 Fairyhouse

Highland Charge

12st 0lb

J: Conor McNamara

T: E McNamara

towards rear

20/1

24th

1

30th Nov 2024

Yielding

2m 4f 55y

15:05 Fairyhouse

Highland Charge

12st 0lb

J: Conor McNamara

T: E McNamara

towards rear

20/1

Form: 1-7112 D BF

Last run: 48 days

W: 10st 9lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won two 2m novices (heavy/good to soft) at the end of last year and good second in Grade 2 novice here (2m4f, soft) in January; improvement needed on handicap debut but this smooth traveller could be suited by a strongly run race at this trip and Dan Skelton won the County in 2016, 2018 and 2019.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

1

18th Jan 2025

Heavy

1m 7f 144y

Class 3

12:45 Haydock

Pembroke

12st 0lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

raced wide, prominent, mistake 3rd, not fluent and lost position 5th, dropped to rear 6th, soon lost touch

14/1

8th

1

18th Jan 2025

Heavy

1m 7f 144y

Class 3

12:45 Haydock

Pembroke

12st 0lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

raced wide, prominent, mistake 3rd, not fluent and lost position 5th, dropped to rear 6th, soon lost touch

14/1

6th

1

14th Dec 2024

Good To Soft

2m 0f 128y

Class 2

15:15 Doncaster

Pembroke

12st 0lb

J: Fergus Gillard

T: Dan Skelton

Well handicapped on last season's best novice chase form and he reappeared with a fair sixth in the Welsh Champion Hurdle; however, he was well beaten at Carlisle only a fortnight ago and needs to bounce back.

9/1

Form: 1-1221 D

Last run: 34 days

W: 11st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Second in Grade 2 novice chase at Kempton (2m, soft) in December and transferred that chasing improvement back to hurdles when making all in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury (2m, good) last month; 9lb higher today and it will be tougher to execute the same tactics, but he could make another bold bid.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

21st Sep 2025

Good To Firm

1m 7f 195y

Class 3

15:50 Plumpton

Aucunrisque

11st 12lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Not as good as he was but that's reflected in his mark and he knows his way around this place; returning from a break when third in this 12 months ago off a 4lb higher mark; could easily have a role to play.

7/2

3

29th Jun 2025

Soft

2m 1f 46y

Class 2

15:50 Cartmel

Aucunrisque

11st 2lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Not quite as good as he was but still a useful performer; placed on final two starts last season (2m hurdle/2m1f chase) and drops back in trip after looking stretched by 2m4f last month; probably best on good/good to soft but has won on soft; enters calculations.

13/2

2

16th May 2025

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 2

18:20 Aintree

Aucunrisque

11st 7lb

J: Freddie Gordon

T: Chris Gordon

Not quite as good as he was but still a useful performer; second off today's mark on latest hurdling start at Newbury (2m, good to soft) in March and also ran well when third in Sussex Champion Chase at Plumpton (2m1f, good) last month; well worth another crack at 2m4f; probably won't be far away.

4/1

40/1

Form: U-6152 D BF

Last run: 12 days

W: 11st 11lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
Second of 22 in the 4yo handicap at the Festival two years ago and the big-field scenario could suit this headstrong sort; third in Grade 1 novice chase last term and won when back over hurdles at Punchestown in December, but he's been beaten at short odds the last twice and has something to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

6th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 3f 180y

16:20 Fairyhouse

Saint Sam

11st 10lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Six-time chase winner but no success since a Grade 2 win at Clonmel in November 2024; ran a cracker in this last year to finish a 0.75l second behind Found A Fifty; below par in both runs this season and needs to leave those tame efforts behind.

7/2

3rd

3

28th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 4f 90y

16:08 Navan

Saint Sam

11st 8lb

J: Paul Townend

T: W P Mullins

Free-going front runner; 6-16 over fences; ran right up to his best at Fairyhouse last April (2m4f, soft to heavy), losing out by only 3/4l to Found A Fifty despite a costly error two out; made several mistakes when pulled up in the Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon on seasonal debut; flopped in the Boyne Hurdle in 2023 on his only Navan appearance.

9/4

2nd

4

21st Apr 2025

Soft To Heavy

2m 3f 170y

16:20 Fairyhouse

Saint Sam

11st 10lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: W P Mullins

Front runner; 6-14 over fences; has alternated between hurdling and chasing since being pulled up in this race last season, winning over timber at Cork and Auteuil and adding a Clonmel Grade 2 Chase (2m5f, good) in November; has often raced too keenly, including when beaten at odds-on by a stablemate at Gowran in February.

11/2

Form: 4-4U30 C

Last run: 34 days

W: 11st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
Won last season's Betfair Hurdle off just 1lb lower and fourth in the Champion Hurdle here next time; ran with promise on first two starts this season but has failed to shine the next twice, over fences on the first occasion and in the Betfair Hurdle most recently; needs to get back on track.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3

18th Jun 2025

Good

2m 4f 0y

Class 3

16:30 Worcester

Glory And Fortune

11st 9lb

J: Stan Sheppard

T: Tom Lacey

Smart in his prime but needed considerable help from the handicapper before driven-out win at Chepstow (2m, good) in April; subsequent defeat in valuable Haydock race is not viewed harshly but he's not yet proven over this far and others in the field have more appealing profiles; cheekpices removed after one use.

11/2

11th

5

10th May 2025

Good

1m 7f 144y

Class 1

13:35 Haydock

Glory And Fortune

11st 9lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Tom Lacey

Winning for the first time since the 2022 Betfair Hurdle when digging deep to edge out Helnwein at Chepstow two weeks ago (2m, good); will do well to defy a 4lb rise in this deeper race but he'll give it his best shot; cheekpieces added.

14/1

11th

5

10th May 2025

Good

1m 7f 144y

Class 1

13:35 Haydock

Glory And Fortune

11st 9lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Tom Lacey

Winning for the first time since the 2022 Betfair Hurdle when digging deep to edge out Helnwein at Chepstow two weeks ago (2m, good); will do well to defy a 4lb rise in this deeper race but he'll give it his best shot; cheekpieces added.

14/1

Form: 173135 D

Last run: 103 days

W: 11st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 144

Form & Verdict
He looked to be a young horse to follow when comfortably winning a handicap at Listowel (2m, good) last September; has also won on heavy ground but he's been unable to repeat the Listowel form in Graded races the last twice and was tailed off most recently; something to prove.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5

29th Aug 2025

Good

3m 0f 0y

18:53 Down Royal

Prairie Dancer

11st 0lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Nine wins in all spheres with the last of those coming in a Thurles handicap chase last December; poor the last twice over hurdles including behind Happy Jacky at Cork; has to rebound

14/1

3

21st Aug 2025

Good

2m 1f 0y

17:07 Killarney

Prairie Dancer

11st 6lb

J: J J Slevin

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Flat winner who is now useful over hurdles and fences; runner-up over 2m4f at Clonmel before not staying 3m at Cork; exposed but shouldn't be far away.

7/1

21

31st Jul 2025

Good

2m 0f 11y

16:30 Galway

Prairie Dancer

10st 6lb

J: Aidan Kelly

T: Joseph Patrick O’Brien

Twice placed in conditions races this summer; little appeal in this company; first reserve.

100/1

Form: 133254 D

Last run: 48 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won two novice chases for Willie Mullins last May/June and some fair efforts over fences more recently for his new yard; however, he looks up against it now back over hurdles in this hot race; wears first-time cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

4

8th Jun 2025

Good

2m 7f 180y

Class 4

16:32 Perth

Ganapathi

11st 12lb

J: Craig Nichol

T: Sandy Thomson

Runner-up three times in a row in February-April, including in a quite valuable series final at Carlisle (2m4f, good) and when losing out only narrowly to Half Shot at Kelso (2m7f, good); subsequent 22l defeat over C&D came in a stronger race than this; one to consider.

9/1

6th

8

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Ganapathi

10st 9lb

J: Jamie Hamilton

T: Sandy Thomson

After dropping down the weights he's run really well to finish second on his last three starts (2m4f/2m7f, good/good to soft); edging back up the handicap but every chance he'll be thereabouts once more.

6/1

6th

8

25th Apr 2025

Good To Soft

2m 7f 180y

Class 3

15:17 Perth

Ganapathi

10st 9lb

J: Jamie Hamilton

T: Sandy Thomson

towards rear

6/1

Form: 25-133 D BF

Last run: 27 days

W: 11st 11lb

6 yo Mare

OR: 152

Form & Verdict
He's 10lb higher than when second in this last year (good to soft) and was below par in Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle last month; however, he's had a wind op since and wears a first-time tongue-tie today, and prior to last time he'd shown improved form this term (good third in 2m4f Grade 2 here on soft in January); suited by the demands of this race and he's one to consider.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 5-F244 D

Last run: 30 days

W: 11st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Fine third in this race in 2021 (good to soft) before winning the Scottish Champion Hurdle (2m, good) and finishing second in the Galway Hurdle (2m, good); on those runs he's on a handy mark and he's better than he's shown on his last two starts; his each-way claims are likely to hinge on the ground, as a soft surface would be a probable negative; wears a first-time hood.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

0

2

27th Oct 2023

Good To Soft

2m 3f 200y

Class 3

17:05 Cheltenham

Milkwood

11st 10lb

J: Richie McLernon

T: Neil Mulholland

2021 was his year, following his third in the County with victory in the Scottish Champion Hurdle and then finishing second in the Galway Hurdle; dangerously treated on all that but last season fizzled out and he wants good ground ideally.

14/1

6th

6

22nd Apr 2023

Good To Soft

2m 0f 0y

Class 1

14:25 Ayr

Milkwood

11st 0lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Neil Mulholland

On fire in 2021, following his third in the County with victory in this and then finishing second in the Galway Hurdle; dangerously treated on all that and forget his Cheltenham flop last month as soft ground was the last thing he needed (hood tried there also dispensed with); could be a player if there's not too much rain.

14/1

13

17th Mar 2023

Soft

2m 0f 179y

Class 1

14:10 Cheltenham

Milkwood

11st 0lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Neil Mulholland

Fine third in this race in 2021 (good to soft) before winning the Scottish Champion Hurdle (2m, good) and finishing second in the Galway Hurdle (2m, good); on those runs he's on a handy mark and he's better than he's shown on his last two starts; his each-way claims are likely to hinge on the ground, as a soft surface would be a probable negative; wears a first-time hood.

33/1

Form: 11P41 D

Last run: 55 days

W: 11st 0lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
After struggling in two Grade 1s he returned to winning ways in a conditions novice hurdle at Navan (2m, soft) in January; that race fell apart and this inexperienced 6yo made a mistake at the final flight, but he's open to improvement for his good yard and is not ruled out in his first handicap.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

7

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Path Doroux

11st 6lb

J: Ben Harvey

T: Gavin Cromwell

Only one win from 21 starts over fences, placed seven times; a long way below his best at Cork last time and well held by third-placed Sky Lord.

25/1

5th

1

6th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 1f 45y

14:25 Cork

Path Doroux

11st 12lb

J: Ben Harvey

T: Gavin Cromwell

Useful although hard to win with and soundly beaten lately, but the handicappper is relenting; one of three runners for in-form yard

12/1

9th

1

7th Mar 2026

Heavy

2m 0f 0y

16:18 Gowran Park

Path Doroux

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Useful chaser at his best, but hard to win with; record of 1-19 in chases is off-putting, placed seven times; tailed off in a strong handicap at Fairyhouse in January (2m1f, yielding); out of his depth along with Drumgill in a Grade 3 contest at Naas 13 days ago.

10/1

Form: 1-6101 D

Last run: 175 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Highly progressive last year and made it three wins from his last five starts (2m-2m4f, good/good to yielding) when powering clear in big-field 2m handicap at Listowel in September; absent since and likely to be on different ground here, but he won on soft earlier in his career and returns with his trainer among the winners; interesting contender under Michael O'Sullivan.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

25th May 2026

Good

2m 3f 136y

19:05 Ballinrobe

Magnor Glory

11st 7lb

J: Alan O’Sullivan

T: Terence O’Brien

Capable handicap hurdler back in the day and has won over hurdles and fences here; couldn't cut it in novice company after chase debut win here in 2024 (after longer layoff); nice run on the Flat when last seen in August and, given his track record, this race may have been the plan for a while.

10/1

5th

5

14th Aug 2025

Good

2m 0f 0y

20:05 Tramore

Magnor Glory

11st 0lb

J: Miss Georgie Benson

T: Terence O’Brien

Five-time winner (four over hurdles and one chasing); last win was in a beginners' at Ballinrobe last year (2m1f, yielding); form dipped markedly in two runs at the end of that summer and he was never involved when pulled up in a novice handicap chase back from a 223-day absence at Wexford in April; questions to answer based on form but his hurdles rating puts him in the thick of things.

9/2

Form: 1-P04P D

Last run: 175 days

W: 10st 7lb

8 yo Mare

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Patchy profile and was pulled up at Listowel in September when last seen (reportedly lost her action); however, prior to that she kept on for fourth in the Galway Hurdle (2m, good) and this stiff finish could play to her strengths if she's back on song; won a bumper on soft; not written off each-way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

6

27th Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

14:20 Leopardstown

Glan

11st 3lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

prominent

33/1

10th

6

27th Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

14:20 Leopardstown

Glan

11st 3lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

prominent

33/1

7

1st Dec 2024

Yielding

2m 0f 110y

15:10 Fairyhouse

Glan

11st 1lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

Won a big handicap hurdle over C&D at the 2022 Easter festival; out of form this year, including on Flat; owner appears to have a much better chance with So Scottish.

20/1

Form: 2D13136 D BF

Last run: 13 days

W: 10st 3lb

5 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Only five and he was a good third in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury last month; however, he was no match for Aucunrisque and Filey Bay that day and has since been soundly beaten in the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

25th Apr 2026

Good

2m 6f 164y

Class 1

14:20 Sandown

Teddy Blue

11st 6lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Has registered a couple of useful handicap wins this season, including at Kempton (2m4f, good) on penultimate start; faces a stiffer task conceding weight all round in this grade, with 4lb penalty incurred.

25/1

23

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Teddy Blue

10st 3lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

Can be difficult to settle and he was reluctant to line up at Kempton (2m4f, good) four weeks ago, but that didn't stop him winning; had just a neck to spare but the first two were clear and this 8yo is now 4-10 over fences; further progress is possible and he's not ruled out up just 3lb.

40/1

1st

5

14th Mar 2026

Good

2m 4f 110y

Class 2

15:18 Kempton

Teddy Blue

11st 2lb

J: Paul O’Brien

T: Harry Derham

All three chase wins (good to soft and good) in 2025, including at 2m2f here; creditable shows in his first 2m4f chases on last two starts and perhaps this sharper test than at Newbury recently will suit; not far away.

12/1

Form: 511062 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 10st 3lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Won two handicaps last autumn (2m/2m1f, good/soft) and returned to form when second of 17 at Leopardstown (2m, yielding) last month; further improvement can't be ruled out and he's an each-way possible.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

3

(2)

31st Jan 2025

Standard

1m 6f 21y

Class 4

18:00 Southwell (AW)

Nibiru

10st 0lb

J: Dylan Hogan

T: Jack Jones

Ex-Irish veteran who scored here (2m) last month on second Flat start for new yard, taking AW record to 3-14; may remain competitive, having gone back up just 1lb.

13/2

5th

3

(2)

31st Jan 2025

Standard

1m 6f 21y

Class 4

18:00 Southwell (AW)

Nibiru

10st 0lb

J: Dylan Hogan

T: Jack Jones

in touch with leaders, outpaced over 2f out, switched right when rallying inside final 110yds, kept on

13/2

1st

1

(1)

20th Dec 2024

Standard

2m 0f 102y

Class 4

15:27 Southwell (AW)

Nibiru

10st 3lb

J: Dylan Hogan

T: Jack Jones

Won a claimer at Dundalk (10.6f) in October and he stayed on well for fourth here (1m6f) on his stable debut the following month; has each-way claims on that form but this 9yo is not easy to predict and was well held back over hurdles last time; risks attached.

14/1

Non-runners

Magnor Glory, Glan

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £963.10
Straight Forecast £392.62
Tricast £2746.97
Trifecta £10592.70

Selections

The Times:

Pembroke

RP Ratings:

Filey Bay

SPOTLIGHT:

First Street

TOPSPEED:

Gin Coco

POSTDATA:

Saint Sam

NEWMARKET:

Wonderwall

The Sun:

Pied Piper

Daily Mirror:

Pembroke

The Star:

Pembroke

Daily Record:

Pembroke

Telegraph:

Filey Bay

The Guardian:

Filey Bay

D Express:

Filey Bay

WEST COUNTRY:

Gin Coco

LAMBOURN:

First Street

Daily Mail:

First Street