March 14 / 16.40 Cheltenham

16.40

Good To Soft

St. James’s Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase

  • Prize money: £24445
  • 3m 2f 70y
  • Class 2
  • 24 runners
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St. James’s Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase

Runners: 24 runners

Type: Hunter Chase

Surface: Turf

Weather: Cloudy

25/1 (Won)

  • Win: £33.40
  • Place: £6.70

Form: -33432

Last run: 237 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 118

Form & Verdict
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.
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

11/2

  • Place: £2.20

Form: 21-123 BF

Last run: 34 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
His only defeat under rules during last season's highly productive campaign came when collared late on in this race, having also finished runner-up in it the year before as a 6yo; went on to win the big hunter chases at Aintree (2m5f, heavy; very easily) and Punchestown (3m, yielding) last spring; needs to right the wrongs of two disappointing runs in Irish hunter chases this winter (odds-on for both) - latterly behind Ryehill and Ontheropes - but he's way too talented to be left out of the reckoning; probably effective on any ground.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

1st May 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Its On The Line

12st 0lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: Emmet Mullins

Won this for the third time last year; contrasting profile in the Cheltenham equivalent now having finished second in four consecutive years; easily the best of the Irish this year, with Panda Boy fifth and Wonderwall (his conqueror last year) seventh; never got competitive in the Aintree Foxhunter, a rare blot on his record; has his quirks, but as tough as they come.

5/2

9th

14

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

15:30 Aintree

Its On The Line

12st 0lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: Emmet Mullins

Won this in 2024 (heavy); beaten a neck by Barton Snow at last month's Cheltenham Festival (3m2f, good to soft), finishing a close second in that hunter chase for the fourth season in a row; at this trip he may prefer more testing ground than is likely today, but he's still entitled to respect.

9/2

2nd

7

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Its On The Line

12st 0lb

J: Mr Derek O’Connor

T: Emmet Mullins

Part of the furniture in this race after going agonisingly close in the last three runnings, especially 12 months ago when he stayed on strongly to push Wonderwall to a neck, after which he secured a repeat win at Punchestown; although it's hardly encouraging that he was turned over at 1-5 in his latest point, the winner is useful on his day and this 9yo didn't exactly arrive here 12 months ago with the wind in his sails; all roads have led to this and he has clear claims.

11/2

5/1

  • Place: £2.70

Form: 21

Last run: 54 days

W: 12st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Initial point form in Ireland was nothing to crow about but his career has taken off since October, winning three points and impressive in a Thurles hunter chase last time (3m1f, good) where his jumping took the eye; the bare form of that race isn't overly strong but he won easily and the RPR was smart; looks a rising force and has since been snapped up by one of Gordon Elliott's powerful owners; now makes debut for that yard; has won on soft but drier ground could be the key to him.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

4

28th Apr 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 90y

14:30 Punchestown

Willitgoahead

11st 12lb

J: Mr J L Scallan

T: Gordon Elliott

Mixed form in the top hunter chases last season; stand-out effort third behind Wonderwall and Its On The Line at Cheltenham; started this season brightly with second to Its On The Line at Down Royal; unseated mid-race at Thurles; pulled up at Cheltenham; major chance if he adapts to the demands of this circuit; cheekpieces fitted; good 7lb claimer.

11/8

22

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Willitgoahead

12st 0lb

J: Mr H C Swan

T: Gordon Elliott

Took form to new level in hunter chases last season and recruited by these connections prior to a staying-on third in this race; that campaign ended on a low note and, as in this last year, Its On The Line was ahead of him on his comeback at Down Royal; unseated mid-race last time; needs a career best but eight is no age in this discipline and he may have more to give.

16/1

7

18th Jan 2026

Yielding

3m 0f 184y

15:55 Thurles

Willitgoahead

11st 11lb

J: Mr J H Williamson

T: Gordon Elliott

Won this race 12 months ago for Sean Doyle; made a fine start for Gordon Elliott when staying on for third in the Irish-dominated St James's Place at Cheltenham; in contrast, a tame effort and pulled up in the championship event at Punchestown; back near the top of his form when splitting Its On The Line and the smart Con's Roc at Down Royal; sets the standard.

9/4

Form: 51329/

Last run: 807 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 125

Form & Verdict
Eighth in the 2022 Champion Bumper for Gordon Elliott and was twice placed here over hurdles; this is a very belated return to rules action and he lacks any experience of regulation fences, but he's been impressive enough in his recent points to be quite a market mover for this; respected.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

18

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

15:30 Aintree

Music Drive

12st 0lb

J: Miss Ellie Callwood

T: Kelly Morgan

He's made the frame at 33-1 in the last two runnings of the Cheltenham Festival hunter chase, finishing about 8l behind Barton Snow and Its On The Line last month when third; tackles a new track today and the drop back in trip isn't an obvious positive, but he could still be an each-way contender.

14/1

3rd

12

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Music Drive

12st 0lb

J: Miss Ellie Callwood

T: Kelly Morgan

2022 Champion Bumper eighth and twice placed over hurdles here when with Gordon Elliott; has done well for current team following a long absence, winning over C&D last May after his never-dangerous 13l fourth to Wonderwall in this 12 months ago; needs to get his skates on a bit earlier to improve on that placing and he was beaten by Linelee King in a recent point (after a long break); return of cheekpieces is no bad thing; seems fine on all ground.

16/1

1st

5

2nd May 2025

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 4

18:20 Cheltenham

Music Drive

11st 12lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Kelly Morgan

prominent, disputing second from 15th, led narrowly before 2 out, ridden approaching last, kept on well final 110yds

15/8

Form: /11-11 C

Last run: 24 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
Unbeaten over regulation fences, having won two handicaps at about 3m in 2023 and come back from a long absence to win hunter chases at Ffos Las (2m5f, heavy) and Taunton (2m7f, good to soft); Haven't Time gave him something to think about last time and this demands more of him, probably a lot more; the cheekpieces he wore for those handicap wins are back on; Paul Nicholls has won this four times.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

16

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Shearer

12st 0lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Paul Nicholls

Relinquished an unbeaten record over regulation fences when fifth in this race last year, though he did well to be only 13l off Wonderwall given that he was in the firing line throughout; it's best not to read too much into a recent odds-on defeat behind past Festival hero Unexpected Party at Haydock (2m6f) as that was probably needed after 11 months off; has no ground preferences; can run well.

20/1

3rd

1

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 6f 54y

Class 3

16:30 Haydock

Shearer

12st 4lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Paul Nicholls

Useful hurdler/chaser who launched hunter chase career with two wins in this month last year (2m5f/2m7f) before a creditable fifth at the Cheltenham Festival (3m2f, good to soft); returns from 11-month absence but still commands respect.

9/4

5th

18

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Shearer

12st 0lb

J: Miss Olive Nicholls

T: Paul Nicholls

Unbeaten over regulation fences, having won two handicaps at about 3m in 2023 and come back from a long absence to win hunter chases at Ffos Las (2m5f, heavy) and Taunton (2m7f, good to soft); Haven't Time gave him something to think about last time and this demands more of him, probably a lot more; the cheekpieces he wore for those handicap wins are back on; Paul Nicholls has won this four times.

10/1

Form: 60-425

Last run: 209 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 121

Form & Verdict
Had to dig pretty deep to win this year's two points in Ireland (3m, good to yielding) and he's 0-3 over regulation fences; needs a huge spike in his form to make any significant impact in this.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

10

2nd May 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 0y

18:35 Punchestown

Carnfunnock

12st 0lb

J: Sophie Connor

T: S R B Crawford

Two-time hurdles winner, rated 126 over fences, 3m his best trip, this too sharp.

10/1

10th

2

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Carnfunnock

12st 0lb

J: Mr S Connor

T: S R B Crawford

Ran well for a 100-1 shot in this last year (sixth), doing best work late on; that was also the case when only 6l off Its On The Line at Down Royal over Christmas and, like last year, he arrives here after winning a point; cheekpieces offered nothing when tried once before (hurdles); place squeak.

33/1

2

2nd May 2025

Yielding

3m 0f 160y

16:15 Punchestown

Carnfunnock

12st 0lb

J: Mr S Connor

T: S R B Crawford

midfield

10/1

Form: 6P7FP/

Last run: 685 days

W: 12st 0lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 129

Form & Verdict
Has a good record on the cross-country course here but is no longer the force of old, for all that he's been more than holding his own in recent points; readily opposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

10

12th May 2025

Good

2m 7f 0y

19:43 Killarney

Plan Of Attack

11st 7lb

J: Mr B Finn

T: Henry De Bromhead

led narrowly, headed and raced in second 3rd, led again before 3 out, headed 2 out, weakened final 110yds

13/2

4th

10

12th May 2025

Good

2m 7f 0y

19:43 Killarney

Plan Of Attack

11st 7lb

J: Mr B Finn

T: Henry De Bromhead

Two-time winning chaser rated 129; 3-10 in point-to-points; won by 6l at Punchestown in February and creditable effort in the St James's Place at Cheltenham in March; last of four on latest at Quakerstown; place chance.

13/2

7th

15

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Plan Of Attack

12st 0lb

J: Mr B O’Neill

T: Henry De Bromhead

Has a good record on the cross-country course here but is no longer the force of old, for all that he's been more than holding his own in recent points; readily opposed.

40/1

Form: 5-80F2

Last run: 34 days

W: 12st 0lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won the 2021 Munster National for Willie Mullins and contested plenty of other strong handicaps for that yard, not beaten far in last season's Scottish National; best days are surely behind him now at 11, but he won a point in January and ran well when dividing Ryehill and Its On The Line at Naas (3m1f, soft); assured stamina ticks a big box and he could have some say.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 7f 0y

17:42 Clonmel

Ontheropes

11st 11lb

J: Mr C Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Has run well a couple of times this season but hasn't won under Rules' since October 2021; tailed off at Uttoxeter and pulled up in the Ulster National latest; needs to revive.

16/1

12

29th Mar 2026

Yielding To Soft

3m 4f 120y

16:27 Downpatrick

Ontheropes

10st 6lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Point-to-winner last season before going hunter chasing; no success on the track since 2021; has shown fair form over hurdles this season; 1-23 record over fences is a negative.

14/1

16th

18

14th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

2m 7f 70y

Class 2

14:25 Uttoxeter

Ontheropes

10st 3lb

J: Danny Mullins

T: Thomas Mullins

Irish veteran who is in reasonably good form, placed at Naas (2m7f) most recently, but hasn't won under rules since 2021 and can be opposed in this competitive affair.

16/1

100/30

Form: /273F- CD

Last run: 365 days

W: 11st 7lb

10 yo Mare

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
Past handicappers have a good record and this mare fits the bill, having won the Kim Muir here two years ago; she was challenging the thrown-in Inothewayurthinkin when falling two out in last season's edition of that same race; has gone 2-2 in points this term and had far too much for the respected Ryehill last time; worthy of her prominence in the betting.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

24

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Angels Dawn

11st 7lb

J: Mr P A King

T: S Curling

Past handicappers have a good record and this mare fits the bill, having won the Kim Muir here two years ago; she was challenging the thrown-in Inothewayurthinkin when falling two out in last season's edition of that same race; has gone 2-2 in points this term and had far too much for the respected Ryehill last time; worthy of her prominence in the betting.

100/30

Form: 611P51 C

Last run: 28 days

W: 12st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Had flashes of good form when with Gavin Cromwell but was inconsistent; won a point and a hunter chase (cheekpieces returned) within the space of 12 days last month but it's very questionable whether he can mix it with the best of today's opposition.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1

4th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 171y

Class 4

16:42 Ludlow

Bardenstown Lad

12st 6lb

J: Mr Darren Andrews

T: Warwick Ryan-Beswick

Won a point and a Fakenham hunter chase about this time last year before predictably struggling at lengthy odds in the feature hunter chases at Cheltenham and Aintree; badly let down by his jumping in calmer waters afterwards and this 11yo now has much to prove.

16/1

1

14th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 5

17:05 Newton Abbot

Bardenstown Lad

12st 8lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: David Loughnane

Won a point and a Fakenham hunter chase in February before making no impact in the big hunter chases at Cheltenham and Aintree (behind when unseating); found no fluency and was well held when falling at Stratford (2m6f, good); comes with risks on the back of that effort but this is a modest contest.

4/6

1

14th May 2025

Good

3m 1f 170y

Class 5

17:05 Newton Abbot

Bardenstown Lad

12st 8lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: David Loughnane

Won a point and a Fakenham hunter chase in February before making no impact in the big hunter chases at Cheltenham and Aintree (behind when unseating); found no fluency and was well held when falling at Stratford (2m6f, good); comes with risks on the back of that effort but this is a modest contest.

4/6

Form: 3/2-11 C

Last run: 287 days

W: 12st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 140

Form & Verdict
Won at the hunter chase meeting here last May (3m1f, soft) and followed up in Stratford's Horse And Hound Cup (3m3f, good), latter at the expense of Lift Me Up and a below-par Fairly Famous; won't fail through a lack of stamina and recent point defeats weren't shoddy efforts by any means.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

1st May 2026

Good

3m 1f 100y

Class 4

17:40 Warwick

What A Glance

12st 0lb

J: Mr Frederick Philipson-Stow

T: Tom Britten

Easy winner of this race in 2024 (soft) and the Stratford champion event (good) straight after, and nearest miss since when held by a neck at Brocklesby in February; there's always the chance he'll thrown in a mistake, but case is still good on this easiest-looking hunter chase assignment for some time.

11/4

20

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

What A Glance

12st 0lb

J: Miss Clara Brewitt

T: Tom Britten

Winner at this track in 2024 and he then beat Lift Me Up in Stratford's Horse & Hound Cup; however, he never counted in this 12 months ago and returns a year older and in no better form.

100/1

3

4th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 7f 171y

Class 4

16:42 Ludlow

What A Glance

12st 6lb

J: Mr Frederick Philipson-Stow

T: Tom Britten

Won hunter chases in summer of 2024, including on soft ground at Cheltenham (3m1f); lightly raced in the meantime but didn't run too badly after an absence at Larkhill.

8/1

Form: /P-321

Last run: 53 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 132

Form & Verdict
Low-mileage 9yo; beat a talented hunter chaser when wearing the new cheekpieces at Warwick (3m, good to soft) last time; has appreciably more on his plate now and was a long way behind Fairly Famous here last May; the latter was not at his best when those placings were reversed at Stratford later in the month (both behind What A Glance); a minor role looks on the cards.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Lift Me Up

12st 0lb

J: Miss Heidi Palin

T: Miss M Filby

Jumping failed the test when he was tailed off in this last year, going off at 33-1, and his credentials are no more compelling this time around.

150/1

3

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 6f 54y

Class 3

16:30 Haydock

Lift Me Up

12st 1lb

J: Mr Martin McIntyre

T: Miss M Filby

Runner-up in Champion Hunters' Chase at Stratford (3m3f, good) in spring 2024 and won under rules at Warwick (3m, good to soft) in January last year; made satisfactory reappearance in open point last month and handles soft ground (unraced on heavy); no surprise if he features.

10/1

13th

11

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Lift Me Up

12st 0lb

J: Mr Jack Andrews

T: Miss M Filby

Low-mileage 9yo; beat a talented hunter chaser when wearing the new cheekpieces at Warwick (3m, good to soft) last time; has appreciably more on his plate now and was a long way behind Fairly Famous here last May; the latter was not at his best when those placings were reversed at Stratford later in the month (both behind What A Glance); a minor role looks on the cards.

40/1

Form: -3P554

Last run: 17 days

W: 12st 0lb

12 yo Gelding

OR: 122

Form & Verdict
Belied his 66-1 odds to finish fourth in this race 12 months ago but he was no threat to the principals; he's now a year older and returns for another crack after some underwhelming performances.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

5

17th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 54y

Class 5

17:13 Exeter

DJango

12st 2lb

J: Mr Lucas Murphy

T: Miss V Collins

Teenager who has gone over two years since his latest win and has been out of form this season (three runs); revival needed.

50/1

5

23rd Jan 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 0y

Class 5

16:18 Warwick

DJango

12st 2lb

J: Mr Frederick Philipson-Stow

T: Miss V Collins

Won this race in 2024 (soft ground) but never really got going last season and was very disappointing favourite in a point last month, after a layoff; now a teenager and needs to prove he still has what it takes.

20/1

Form: 59/4/4

Last run: 75 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Had won five points on the bounce before finishing a 4l fourth in this two years ago and he won another three not long after, including a 4l defeat of Its On The Line; it's questionable whether he's quite in the same form now, despite getting his head back in front last time.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

6

14th May 2026

Good

2m 3f 116y

16:47 Clonmel

Rockys Howya

10st 12lb

J: Kevin Healy

T: Declan Queally

Nine-time point winner won three in a row earlier this year on heavy, claiming hurdles at Limerick and Naas plus a handicap chase at the former track; blowing hard after pulled-up in a Wexford novice last time; might find this trip sharp; blinkers.

3/1

3

10th Apr 2026

Good To Yielding

3m 0f 0y

17:28 Wexford

Rockys Howya

11st 11lb

J: Michael Kenneally

T: Declan Queally

Prolific pointer is on a four-timer after notching up wins in claiming hurdles at Limerick (2m5f, heavy) and Naas (2m6f, sft-hvy) and a handicap chase at Limerick (2m7f, heavy); has to prove his effectiveness on better ground, however.

15/8

100/1

Form: -14644 D

Last run: 28 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 125

Form & Verdict
Eight wins over rules fences include two hunter chases last year; joined this yard for £30,000 in October; suited by good ground but he was too free for his own good after a break when tailed off behind Bardenstown Lad at Fakenham; even should he give himself a greater chance here, his form credentials aren't that persuasive; cheekpieces return.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 0f 38y

Class 5

16:50 Fakenham

Go On Chez

12st 6lb

J: Mr Charlie Marshall

T: F A Hutsby

Dual scorer in this sphere granted a sharp 3m and good ground in 2024; outclassed in the big one at Cheltenham this raceday last year and disappointing season either side of that (34l fourth over this C&D); absent since May, but record fresh is generally fair.

3/1

Form: /96-07

Last run: 294 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 121

Form & Verdict
Useful when at his peak for Gordon Elliott but has never been a prolific winner and has no realistic chance here on what he's achieved in Irish points; new stable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4

7th Jul 2025

Good

2m 7f 0y

Class 4

14:42 Worcester

Au Fleuron

11st 9lb

J: Miss Aimee Jones

T: Max Comley

The winner of four points and an Irish maiden hurdle in 2021; forgettable efforts in hunter chases at Cheltenham before finishing a tailed-off last of three in a handicap at Market Rasen; another tweak on the headgear front; others safer.

66/1

3rd

3

13th Jun 2025

Good

2m 5f 89y

Class 4

19:00 Market Rasen

Au Fleuron

11st 7lb

J: David Bass

T: Max Comley

Multiple point winner who signed off on a low note for David Christie last December and didn't enjoy either trip to Cheltenham for these connections, running out early in a debuted visor latest (retained); no ground issues, but hard to be confident about present attainment level.

16/1

8

2nd May 2025

Good

4m 0f 97y

Class 4

19:30 Cheltenham

Au Fleuron

11st 12lb

J: Miss Aimee Jones

T: Max Comley

Useful in his prime under rules and won four Irish points last year; struggled when making stable debut at the Festival here in March, though, and is quite tricky to weigh up at present; headgear switched today.

33/1

OUR TIP

Form: 00/334 C

Last run: 132 days

W: 12st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
In the same colours when third in the 2020 Triumph and fourth in the following year's Arkle; rediscovered some form back over hurdles last year for James Owen and has gone on to win two small-field 3m points, beating What A Glance by 3l in the penultimate one; he likes to crack on up front and his stamina could be stretched over this extra yardage; proven in this headgear combination.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

2

13th Apr 2025

Good

2m 6f 125y

Class 5

16:28 Stratford

Allmankind

11st 10lb

J: Mr Alex Chadwick

T: Mrs J Owen

led, awkward jump and briefly headed 5th, headed 12th, pressed leader 4 out

Evs

1st

2

13th Apr 2025

Good

2m 6f 125y

Class 5

16:28 Stratford

Allmankind

11st 10lb

J: Mr Alex Chadwick

T: Mrs J Owen

led, awkward jump and briefly headed 5th

Evs

1

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Allmankind

12st 0lb

J: Mr Alex Chadwick

T: Mrs J Owen

In the same colours when third in the 2020 Triumph and fourth in the following year's Arkle; rediscovered some form back over hurdles last year for James Owen and has gone on to win two small-field 3m points, beating What A Glance by 3l in the penultimate one; he likes to crack on up front and his stamina could be stretched over this extra yardage; proven in this headgear combination.

14/1

Form: 45P-12 BF

Last run: 36 days

W: 12st 0lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 131

Form & Verdict
Smart back in the day for Nicky Henderson; an 11yo now and after winning his first hunter chase he was hammered by Shearer at Ffos Las (2m5f; heavy was no excuse); opposable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

14th Mar 2025

Good To Soft

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Angels Breath

12st 0lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

Smart back in the day for Nicky Henderson; an 11yo now and after winning his first hunter chase he was hammered by Shearer at Ffos Las (2m5f; heavy was no excuse); opposable.

50/1

2nd

2

6th Feb 2025

Heavy

2m 5f 110y

Class 4

16:50 Ffos Las

Angels Breath

12st 2lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

prominent, disputing second before 2nd, lost ground when not fluent 4 out, no chance with winner before 2 out

6/4

2nd

2

6th Feb 2025

Heavy

2m 5f 110y

Class 4

16:50 Ffos Las

Angels Breath

12st 2lb

J: Mr Edward Vaughan

T: Tim Vaughan

prominent, disputing second before 2nd, lost ground when not fluent 4 out, no chance with winner before 2 out

6/4

Form: /1P-13 CD

Last run: 287 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 133

Form & Verdict
Unbeaten in his two visits here (on good and soft), latterly when emerging from off the pace over C&D last May to beat the 2023 winner of this (Premier Magic); has a fair shout on that form and this track probably suits him better than Stratford where later that month he was ridden more prominently and finished just under 5l behind What A Glance; arrives here with confidence buoyed after no-nonsense wins between the flags; merits attention.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

15:30 Aintree

Fairly Famous

12st 0lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Mrs G Andrews

Strong form when winning hunter chases at Cheltenham in May 2023 and May 2024; in good heart in point-to-points this season but last May's hunter chase form suggests he may be found wanting.

40/1

2nd

2

30th May 2025

Good

2m 6f 125y

Class 3

18:25 Stratford

Fairly Famous

11st 10lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Mrs G Andrews

Useful hunter chaser who has two Cheltenham wins on his CV and was placed in the Champion Hunters' Chase on this card in 2024; not at best this year, though, and managed only third of six when warm favourite at Cheltenham in first-time cheekpieces four weeks ago.

7/4

2nd

2

30th May 2025

Good

2m 6f 125y

Class 3

18:25 Stratford

Fairly Famous

11st 10lb

J: Miss Gina Andrews

T: Mrs G Andrews

Useful hunter chaser who has two Cheltenham wins on his CV and was placed in the Champion Hunters' Chase on this card in 2024; not at best this year, though, and managed only third of six when warm favourite at Cheltenham in first-time cheekpieces four weeks ago.

7/4

Form: 513-32

Last run: 24 days

W: 12st 0lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 117

Form & Verdict
Dual point winner who was a near 12l third to What A Glance at the hunter chase meeting here last May (3m1f, soft) and returned from a break to keep Shearer honest at Taunton (2m7f, good to soft) despite a bad mid-race mistake; could run well but is unlikely to be good enough at the age of 11.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

7

17th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

3m 0f 54y

Class 5

17:13 Exeter

Havent Time

12st 2lb

J: Miss Lucy Turner

T: Miss S McQueen

No threat to easy winner when second at Taunton (2m7f, heavy) last month but that was still a pretty good effort and he'll probably be better suited by the less testing ground here; a possible.

14/1

2nd

2

12th Feb 2026

Heavy

2m 7f 3y

Class 5

16:00 Taunton

Havent Time

12st 2lb

J: Miss Lucy Turner

T: Miss S McQueen

Won hunter chase at Southwell (3m, soft) in March 2024 and runner-up in this race last February (good to soft); this 12yo was no match for Golden Son when fourth at Warwick (3m, good to soft) three weeks ago; could improve for that reappearance outing but others still make greater appeal.

33/1

Form: 67-515

Last run: 54 days

W: 12st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 117

Form & Verdict
Won a hunter chase at Fairyhouse in November (3m, good) but he was only fifth behind the improving Willitgoahead at Thurles the last time; there's no obvious reason why he should reverse those placings.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

1st Jun 2026

Yielding

2m 3f 0y

16:07 Listowel

Lisleigh Lad

11st 2lb

J: Alan O’Sullivan

T: Ms Eleanor Broderick

Dual hunter chase winner who can hold his own in handicaps but unlikely to be overly competitive at this level.

66/1

3rd

11

15th May 2026

Good To Yielding

2m 4f 90y

19:40 Kilbeggan

Lisleigh Lad

11st 3lb

J: Alan O’Sullivan

T: Ms Eleanor Broderick

Two-time chase winner, encouraging run when beaten 0.5l behind Harbour Highway at Leopardstown (2m6f, yielding) in March before well-held fourth at Fairyhouse 41 days ago; ground should suit and place claims.

14/1

Form: 21-41

Last run: 34 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Remote fourth to Its On The Line at Punchestown last May but he's a scopey, lightly raced 8yo who has raised his game this winter, finishing 6l off Angels Dawn in a point before beating Ontheropes and Its On The Line with a degree of comfort at Naas (3m1f, soft); it could be that he ideally needs plenty of ease underfoot but interesting otherwise with his profile firmly on the up.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

9

5th Mar 2024

Soft

3m 0f 176y

15:10 Thurles

Ryehill

12st 0lb

J: Mr L P Shanahan

T: Ross O’Sullivan

didn't always jump with fluency, towards rear, jumped left and slow jump 1st, headway before 8th, prominent after 3 out

100/30

Form: -86825

Last run: 27 days

W: 12st 0lb

10 yo Gelding

OR: 130

Form & Verdict
Beat the useful Famous Clermont (former Aintree Foxhunters' winner) in a point last month but his hunter chase defeats at Taunton (behind Angels Breath) and Haydock don't bode well ahead of this tougher examination.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

20

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 2

15:30 Aintree

Take All

12st 0lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

Good efforts in defeat behind Java Point (3m, good to soft) and Unexposed Party (2m6f, good to soft) this year and ran well for a long way before fading at last month's Cheltenham Festival (3m2f); could have an each-way shout at big odds now back down in trip; reapplied cheekpieces replace hood.

40/1

8th

19

13th Mar 2026

Good

3m 2f 70y

Class 2

16:40 Cheltenham

Take All

12st 0lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

125-1 for this last year but was still travelling within himself when falling three out; returns on the back of a positive performance at Haydock when just ahead of Shearer; hood returns; he's no forlorn hope by any means.

50/1

2nd

4

14th Feb 2026

Good To Soft

2m 6f 54y

Class 3

16:30 Haydock

Take All

12st 1lb

J: Mr Samuel Scott

T: Myles Osborne

Ran well when fifth in this race a year ago (good to soft) and has some notable form since, including fourth of 16 in amateur riders' handicap at Cheltenham (3m1f, heavy) in November and third in recent Ludlow hunter chase (3m, good to soft); can make his presence felt.

7/1

Form: 058-33

Last run: 58 days

W: 12st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 114

Form & Verdict
His recent point wins have come easily, latterly at the expense of Plan Of Attack; clearly in good nick but probably punching above his weight in this company.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12

21st Mar 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 7f 150y

16:17 Navan

West Of Carrig

10st 7lb

J: Mr A J Browne

T: Don Browne

Record of 5-13 in points; opened account on the track at the 18th attempt, improving on hunter chase form to land a 2m5f handicap at Fairyhouse off 104 in January (soft); maintained consistency with a promoted third at Thurles last time (2m2f, soft); others preferred.

20/1

3rd

3

5th Feb 2026

Soft

2m 2f 0y

13:42 Thurles

West Of Carrig

11st 12lb

J: Mr A J Browne

T: Don Browne

Record of 5-13 in points; opened account under rules at the 18th attempt, improving on hunter chase form to land a 2m5f handicap at Fairyhouse three weeks ago; 6lb higher with his regular rider again claiming 7lb.

13/2

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £319.00
Straight Forecast £142.20
Tricast £869.67
Trifecta £2806.90

Selections

RP RATINGS:

Angels Dawn

SPOTLIGHT:

Its On The Line

Telegraph:

Music Drive

WEST COUNTRY:

Shearer

Daily Mirror:

What A Glance

POSTDATA:

Bardenstown Lad

TOPSPEED:

Angels Dawn

The Times:

Angels Dawn

The Guardian:

Angels Dawn

Daily Mail:

Angels Dawn

D Express:

Angels Dawn

The Sun:

Angels Dawn

The Star:

Angels Dawn

Daily Record:

Angels Dawn