March 11 / 16.40 Cheltenham

16.40

Good To Soft

Debenhams Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

  • Prize money: £84405
  • 1m 7f 199y
  • Class 1
  • 22 runners
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Debenhams Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race)

Runners: 22 runners

Type: Chase Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Partly cloudy

50/1 (Won)

  • Win: £169.70
  • Place: £21.80

Form: 8-529U D

Last run: 39 days

W: 10st 12lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
Ascot specialist who was second there in November off today's mark and he was in contention when unseating five out at Sandown in January; however, good runs were scarce in 2025 and he's been soundly beaten on all four visits here; tenth in this last year; blinkers replace cheekpieces.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

13

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Martator

10st 12lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Ascot specialist who was second there in November off today's mark and he was in contention when unseating five out at Sandown in January; however, good runs were scarce in 2025 and he's been soundly beaten on all four visits here; tenth in this last year; blinkers replace cheekpieces.

50/1

3

31st Jan 2026

Soft

1m 7f 99y

Class 2

14:02 Sandown

Martator

11st 9lb

J: Charlie Deutsch

T: Venetia Williams

Has lacked consistency since completing a five-timer in 2024; best effort this term when second at Ascot on penultimate start; on last winning mark, so holds a fighting chance provided he's in top form.

12/1

7/1

  • Place: £2.00

Form: 6-P056 CD

Last run: 52 days

W: 11st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 143

Form & Verdict
8lb higher than when winning this last year (good to soft) and his subsequent form (chiefly over hurdles) hasn't been at the same level; however, he's had a wind op since last time and his 2-2 record at the Cheltenham Festival (also won the Fred Winter in 2023) means he's firmly in calculations.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

16

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 4f 0y

Class 1

13:45 Aintree

Jazzy Matty

11st 4lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Cian Collins

Better over fences; stays 2m5f; had wind surgery prior to the latest Cheltenham Festival (2m, good) where he very nearly recorded a second success in the Grand Annual; not guaranteed to transfer the form back to hurdles but he is attractively treated off a much lower mark in this sphere.

9/1

2nd

8

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Jazzy Matty

11st 2lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Cian Collins

8lb higher than when winning this last year (good to soft) and his subsequent form (chiefly over hurdles) hasn't been at the same level; however, he's had a wind op since last time and his 2-2 record at the Cheltenham Festival (also won the Fred Winter in 2023) means he's firmly in calculations.

7/1

6th

2

18th Jan 2026

Yielding

1m 7f 168y

13:40 Thurles

Jazzy Matty

11st 11lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Cian Collins

Five-time winner, including wins in the Fred Winter and last season's Grand Annual; generally below since, beaten 26l in the Galway Plate; respectable effort back over hurdles at Cheltenham last time when a 12.5l fifth of 20; took the runner-up spot in this race last year from 1lb lower, so not ruled out.

5/1

16/1

  • Place: £4.30

Form: -41472 D

Last run: 24 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Filly

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Has failed to kick on since chase debut win at Gowran Park (2m, heavy) in November; however, the best run of her career came when fourth of five finishers in the Grade 1 Aintree Hurdle (2m4f, good to soft) last April and on that evidence there could be some mileage in her mark; not written off.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

2

9th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 0y

14:25 Killarney

Break My Soul

11st 0lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Dual winning hurdler for Nicky Henderson and took fourth in Grade 1 company behind Lossiemouth at Aintree in 2025 (2m4f, good to soft); made a winning chase debut for this yard, and ran a valiant race when third in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good); pulled up at Fairyhouse when last seen off top weight; top-rated of these reverting to hurdles; new headgear.

9/4

1

5th Apr 2026

Yielding To Soft

2m 0f 140y

16:25 Fairyhouse

Break My Soul

11st 12lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Chase debut win at Gowran Park (2m, heavy) in November and easily best of four attempts since on latest when fine third of 20 in 2m Grand Annual at Cheltenham last month on handicap debut (good); no easy task for top-weight but has to be respected.

11/2

3rd

17

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Break My Soul

10st 9lb

J: Sam Ewing

T: Ian Patrick Donoghue

Has failed to kick on since chase debut win at Gowran Park (2m, heavy) in November; however, the best run of her career came when fourth of five finishers in the Grade 1 Aintree Hurdle (2m4f, good to soft) last April and on that evidence there could be some mileage in her mark; not written off.

16/1

9/1

  • Place: £2.70

Form: 166-22 D BF

Last run: 75 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Second-season chaser who has shown improved form when runner-up on both starts this term, most recently second of 20 to Addragoole at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) in December; this unexposed 7yo could have even more to offer and might have a part to play; wears a first-time hood.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Release The Beast

11st 6lb

J: Eoin Staples

T: Paul Nolan

Second-season chaser who showed improved form when runner-up at Wexford and Leopardstown on his first two starts this season; Grand Annual fourth confirmed a level of form that makes him interesting in this company; good 5lb claimer.

5/1

4th

20

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Release The Beast

10st 9lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: Paul Nolan

Second-season chaser who has shown improved form when runner-up on both starts this term, most recently second of 20 to Addragoole at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) in December; this unexposed 7yo could have even more to offer and might have a part to play; wears a first-time hood.

9/1

2

26th Oct 2025

Good To Yielding

2m 3f 130y

13:05 Wexford

Release The Beast

11st 7lb

J: Sean O’Keeffe

T: Paul Nolan

Lightly-raced six-year-old who won Galway maiden hurdle on debut and looked good when winning a novice chase at Limerick last December (2m1f, yielding to soft); questions to answer on seasonal return following disappointing runs at Punchestown in February and Fairyhouse in April.

10/1

Form: 5-0220 D

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
7l fifth in this last March (good to soft); runner-up on both starts in the autumn (including C&D) and soft ground may have been against him when down the field at Leopardstown (2m1f) last month; he's 5lb higher than 12 months ago but is not discounted each-way for his good Irish stable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

6

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

Jasko Des Dames

11st 3lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Returned to form back on better ground when fifth, beaten just over 10l, in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good); he led jumping two out at the Festival and this less demanding track could be right up his street.

12/1

5th

19

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Jasko Des Dames

10st 9lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

7l fifth in this last March (good to soft); runner-up on both starts in the autumn (including C&D) and soft ground may have been against him when down the field at Leopardstown (2m1f) last month; he's 5lb higher than 12 months ago but is not discounted each-way for his good Irish stable.

14/1

12th

7

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Jasko Des Dames

10st 13lb

J: Darragh O’Keeffe

T: Henry De Bromhead

Dual winner over fences as a novice last season and finished 7l fifth in the Grand Annual; Listowel effort on return was encouraging (2m1f, yielding to soft); no match for the Dan Skelton-trained Calico at Cheltenham in October; winner backed that up with an Ascot win.

13/2

Form: 231286

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 12lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 139

Form & Verdict
5l win in the Summer Plate at Market Rasen (2m5f, good) last July and went close in the American Grand National (2m5f, firm) in October; excuses on both winter starts (3m then soft ground); the drop back to 2m poses a question but the stiff track and strong pace will help; possible player.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

1

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Ballysax Hank

11st 12lb

J: James Bowen

T: Gavin Cromwell

Summer Plate winner at Market Rasen (2m5f, good) last July and went close in the American Grand National (2m5f, firm) in October; excuses on both winter starts; has around 5lb to find with Release The Beast on Cheltenham running; big task under this weight and would prefer further.

10/1

6th

14

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Ballysax Hank

10st 12lb

J: James Bowen

T: Gavin Cromwell

5l win in the Summer Plate at Market Rasen (2m5f, good) last July and went close in the American Grand National (2m5f, firm) in October; excuses on both winter starts (3m then soft ground); the drop back to 2m poses a question but the stiff track and strong pace will help; possible player.

10/1

6th

4

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Ballysax Hank

11st 4lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

2-5 over fences, won the Summer Plate at Market Rasen (21.5f, good) in July off 128; won sole Flat start next time at Gowran on good to yielding before a fine second to Zanahiyr over hurdles in the American Grand National (2m5f, firm); failed to stay 3m in the Paddy Power at Christmas; ground conditions not certain to suit.

8/1

15/2

Form: P-3211 D

Last run: 67 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Won at Ascot (2m1f, soft) in December on third chase start and followed up at Sandown (1m7f, good) in January; those wins came in small fields and this is much more competitive, but this lightly raced 7yo did it convincingly both times and it remains to be seen where the ceiling of his ability lies.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

9

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Vanderpoel

11st 0lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Won at Ascot (2m1f, soft) in December on third chase start and followed up at Sandown (1m7f, good) in January; those wins came in small fields and this is much more competitive, but this lightly raced 7yo did it convincingly both times and it remains to be seen where the ceiling of his ability lies.

15/2

3rd

5

31st Oct 2025

Good

1m 7f 214y

Class 3

15:05 Uttoxeter

Vanderpoel

11st 5lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Irish point winner who began hurdling career with wins at Huntingdon and Ludlow (both 2m, good to soft) at start of this year; did not fire when upped to Grade 2 level in March but could still have considerable potential and Ben Pauling is evidently very keen to switch him to fences.

5/1

40/1

Form: F4-P53 D

Last run: 74 days

W: 11st 4lb

11 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Ascot specialist who ran really well when second to Jonbon in C&D Grade 2 (good) in November 2024; well handicapped on that form but this 11yo has struggled to get competitive this season; wind op needs to prompt a revival.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

4

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

Boothill

11st 9lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Ascot specialist who runs at Aintree for the first time; following wind surgery he ran okay when 13l eighth of 20 in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good) last month, and he's another 4lb lower today; however, this 11yo is without a win since 2023 and needs to find something extra now in cheekpieces.

33/1

8th

6

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Boothill

11st 4lb

J: Bryan Carver

T: Harry Fry

Ascot specialist who ran really well when second to Jonbon in C&D Grade 2 (good) in November 2024; well handicapped on that form but this 11yo has struggled to get competitive this season; wind op needs to prompt a revival.

40/1

Form: 321413 D

Last run: 37 days

W: 11st 4lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 145

Form & Verdict
Switched to fences last August and he's been progressive, winning a competitive handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) in December and solid third of 14 there (2m1f, soft) last month; today's likely return to better ground could be a plus and this 7yo remains open to further improvement; chance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

12th

11

10th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

2m 5f 19y

Class 1

16:05 Aintree

Addragoole

10st 11lb

J: Sean Flanagan

T: Gavin Cromwell

Stamina to prove and he failed to threaten when ninth in the Grand Annual last month; however, Cheltenham may not be his track (also not at his best there last October) and he showed improved form to win a competitive handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) in December; only seven and there have been hints that this sort of trip may suit; no surprise to see him go well.

25/1

9th

7

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Addragoole

11st 4lb

J: Keith Donoghue

T: Gavin Cromwell

Switched to fences last August and he's been progressive, winning a competitive handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) in December and solid third of 14 there (2m1f, soft) last month; today's likely return to better ground could be a plus and this 7yo remains open to further improvement; chance.

12/1

3rd

3

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Addragoole

11st 7lb

J: Eoin Staples

T: Gavin Cromwell

1-10 over hurdles; already a much better chaser; won 2m2f Sligo beginners' event in October; struggled at Cheltenham later that month; slotted into handicap company effectively with a C&D win at Christmas at a time when the stable was generally struggling for form; can continue to improve; Thyestes-winning rider takes the sting out of 10lb rise.

8/1

Form: -25236 D

Last run: 102 days

W: 11st 0lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
0-6 since winning on chase debut last February; below par at Fairyhouse in November last time but the yielding to soft ground provides an excuse; good runs at Roscommon (2m, good to yielding) and Ascot (2m1f, good) previously in the autumn and he goes well fresh; has an each-way shout.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

12

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Special Cadeau

11st 0lb

J: Mike O’Connor

T: Henry De Bromhead

0-6 since winning on chase debut last February; below par at Fairyhouse in November last time but the yielding to soft ground provides an excuse; good runs at Roscommon (2m, good to yielding) and Ascot (2m1f, good) previously in the autumn and he goes well fresh; has an each-way shout.

25/1

3rd

4

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 0f 172y

Class 1

14:05 Ascot

Special Cadeau

10st 13lb

J: Mike O’Connor

T: Henry De Bromhead

Already a better chaser than hurdler and it was a commendable effort at the weights when runner-up in a Grade 3 novice at Roscommon a month ago (2m, good to yielding); has scope for further progress and in-form Irish stable always respected on British forays.

11/2

3rd

4

1st Nov 2025

Good

2m 0f 172y

Class 1

14:05 Ascot

Special Cadeau

10st 13lb

J: Mike O’Connor

T: Henry De Bromhead

Already a better chaser than hurdler and it was a commendable effort at the weights when runner-up in a Grade 3 novice at Roscommon a month ago (2m, good to yielding); has scope for further progress and in-form Irish stable always respected on British forays.

11/2

Form: 8-1222 D BF

Last run: 54 days

W: 11st 6lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 147

Form & Verdict
Improved form when winning on chase debut at Stratford (2m3f, good to soft) in October and strong performances when runner-up in Graded races on his three starts since, including over C&D (soft); this lightly raced 7yo is in top hands and has the potential to be better than this mark now back in a handicap; the hood is left off today, but he ran well without it in December.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

2

11th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

12:45 Aintree

Be Aware

11st 7lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Smart form but has won only twice (runner-up seven times); rallied when beaten 1l by No Questions Asked in Grade 2 novice at Windsor (2m, soft; handles good) in January; raced freely and faded in Grand Annual Handicap at Cheltenham last time; the hood is back on today, a tongue-strap is fitted and he may well bounce back to form; if so, he has each-way possibilities.

10/1

12th

4

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Be Aware

11st 6lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Improved form when winning on chase debut at Stratford (2m3f, good to soft) in October and strong performances when runner-up in Graded races on his three starts since, including over C&D (soft); this lightly raced 7yo is in top hands and has the potential to be better than this mark now back in a handicap; the hood is left off today, but he ran well without it in December.

5/1

2nd

2

16th Jan 2026

Soft

2m 0f 37y

Class 1

13:50 Windsor

Be Aware

11st 2lb

J: Harry Skelton

T: Dan Skelton

Won on chase debut at Stratford (2m3f, good to soft) in October and runner-up in hot races on next two starts, namely the Grade 2 Arkle Trial at Cheltenham (2m, soft) and the Grade 1 Henry VIII at Sandown (1m7f, good to soft); this will take less winning than last time; leading claims.

11/10

Form: F51254 D

Last run: 24 days

W: 10st 9lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 136

Form & Verdict
Won on chase debut at Fairyhouse (2m, yielding) in October and very creditable second in quality novice over this C&D (good to soft) 13 days later; well beaten both starts since but they have been on testing ground; could bounce back and play a leading role now he's back on a better surface.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Relieved Of Duties

11st 5lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Found things too demanding in the Grand Annual, and has been campaigned ambitiously overall since a Fairyhouse beginners' win last October; will be more at home in this company.

12/1

13th

18

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Relieved Of Duties

10st 9lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Won on chase debut at Fairyhouse (2m, yielding) in October and very creditable second in quality novice over this C&D (good to soft) 13 days later; well beaten both starts since but they have been on testing ground; could bounce back and play a leading role now he's back on a better surface.

11/1

OUR TIP

Form: 4-4232 D

Last run: 17 days

W: 12st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 155

Form & Verdict
Tailed off in last season's Arkle on sole visit here and has a lofty mark to defy; however, he won a Grade 2 novice chase last term and ran really well in second in a 2m Grade 3 at Naas recently when conceding 9lb to all of his rivals; James Smith removes 5lb; not ruled out each-way.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

20th

3

28th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 132y

15:40 Punchestown

Touch Me Not

10st 12lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Talented chaser rated 152 in that sphere and a Grade 2 novice chase winner at this venue; soundly beaten in the Grand Annual on latest and now tries to exploit a 17lb lower hurdles mark on first start over timber since April 2024; can't discount.

12/1

14th

1

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Touch Me Not

12st 0lb

J: James Smith

T: Gordon Elliott

Tailed off in last season's Arkle on sole visit here and has a lofty mark to defy; however, he won a Grade 2 novice chase last term and ran really well in second in a 2m Grade 3 at Naas recently when conceding 9lb to all of his rivals; James Smith removes 5lb; not ruled out each-way.

25/1

2nd

1

22nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 0f 0y

16:30 Naas

Touch Me Not

11st 10lb

J: Jack Kennedy

T: Gordon Elliott

Grade 2 winner at Punchestown (2m, soft) last season; form dipped last spring after two respectable runs in Grade 1 company; below best on seasonal return in Fortria (2m, soft to heavy) but much better on handicap debut at Fairyhouse next time when runner-up (2m1f, yielding to soft); ran a solid race when third in a similar contest to this at Fairyhouse last time; race conditions are against him here but a lot of the others have question marks.

9/2

Form: 32-114 CD

Last run: 32 days

W: 11st 12lb

10 yo Filly

OR: 153

Form & Verdict
10yo who has been better than ever this season, winning over C&D (good to soft) in October on his reappearance and following up at Ascot (2m1f, good to soft) in November, despite jumping to the left at that right-handed venue; heavy ground probably not ideal when respectable fourth of six in Grade 2 at Newbury last month; entitled to respect.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

2

16th Nov 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 50y

12:50 Navan

Calico

11st 12lb

J: Finn Brickley

T: Gordon Elliott

Five-time winner including over hurdles in America 12 months ago, not long after opening her chase account at Galway; has been chasing lately; trainer appears to have stronger candidates.

12/1

15th

2

16th Nov 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 50y

12:50 Navan

Calico

11st 12lb

J: Finn Brickley

T: Gordon Elliott

Five-time winner including over hurdles in America 12 months ago, not long after opening her chase account at Galway; has been chasing lately; trainer appears to have stronger candidates.

12/1

6th

1

1st Nov 2024

Good To Yielding

2m 0f 100y

14:40 Down Royal

Calico

12st 0lb

J: Carl Millar

T: Gordon Elliott

Five-time winner including over hurdles in America 12 months ago, not long after opening her chase account at Galway; out of her depth in a Grade 2 chase at Punchestown festival; had a run over hurdles before 12l second to The Banger Doyle on handicap debut at Cork.

7/2

Form: -51132 D

Last run: 25 days

W: 11st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 148

Form & Verdict
Listed/Grade 2 wins over hurdles this term; goes back over fences for the first time since last May and he's 1-5 in this sphere, the win coming in a Grade 2 novice last February; sixth of 15 off this mark in the Scottish Champion Hurdle in April 2024 when he last tackled a handicap; may be vulnerable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

3

25th Apr 2026

Good

2m 5f 110y

Class 1

16:02 Sandown

Rubaud

11st 10lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Form dipped in Cheltenham Festival handicap returned to fences last time; multiple Grade 2 winner but has raced mostly at about 2m and isn't crying out for this step back up in trip; first go beyond a sharp 2m4f.

14/1

3

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Rubaud

11st 7lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: Paul Nicholls

Listed/Grade 2 wins over hurdles this term; goes back over fences for the first time since last May and he's 1-5 in this sphere, the win coming in a Grade 2 novice last February; sixth of 15 off this mark in the Scottish Champion Hurdle in April 2024 when he last tackled a handicap; may be vulnerable.

16/1

2nd

1

14th Feb 2026

Heavy

1m 7f 50y

Class 1

13:35 Wincanton

Rubaud

11st 10lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Paul Nicholls

Front-runner who is 2-3 since returned to hurdles from fences, winning races at Kempton (Listed) and Wincanton (Elite Hurdle) that he also took in 2023 and 2024; held in a 9l third at Kempton on Boxing Day but that was behind Sir Gino in a Grade 1 and he's strongly respected on this drop back in class; most of his wins have been on good ground but he's effective on soft.

7/4

Form: 3-F555 D

Last run: 37 days

W: 11st 5lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 146

Form & Verdict
Won Grade 1 Top Novices' Hurdle at Aintree (2m, good to soft) in April 2023; he's raced seven times since, all over fences, with just one win (a beginners chase in October 2024) and he can be difficult to settle; however, he took a step back in the right direction when fifth of 14 in a handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, soft) last month and is capable of building on that.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

14th

1

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

Inthepocket

12st 0lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Henry De Bromhead

His fortunes over fences have been mixed but he made good headway in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham (2m, good) last month prior to falling two out; finest hour came when winning Grade 1 Top Novices' Hurdle here (2m, good to soft) in April 2023; could have a big say if avoiding mishap.

13/2

5

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Inthepocket

11st 5lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Henry De Bromhead

Won Grade 1 Top Novices' Hurdle at Aintree (2m, good to soft) in April 2023; he's raced seven times since, all over fences, with just one win (a beginners chase in October 2024) and he can be difficult to settle; however, he took a step back in the right direction when fifth of 14 in a handicap at Leopardstown (2m1f, soft) last month and is capable of building on that.

8/1

5th

1

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Inthepocket

11st 12lb

J: Mark Walsh

T: Henry De Bromhead

Grade 1 novice hurdle winner at Aintree in 2023; won a 2m Wexford beginners' chase last season; jumping frailties apparent in races at Naas; had an excuse (lost a shoe and suffered an overreach) at Navan in his first handicap; plenty to prove after a moderate fifth behind Western Diego at Fairyhouse.

12/1

Form: 5-8314 D

Last run: 37 days

W: 11st 0lb

9 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
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.
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: 1-0770 D

Last run: 56 days

W: 11st 0lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 141

Form & Verdict
Won in good style for Gavin Cromwell at Ayr (2m, good to soft) last April and on that evidence this 3lb higher mark may not be beyond him; however, he was underwhelming on his final two runs for that yard and a major turnaround is needed on this stable debut, for which a tongue-tie goes on.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

3

22nd Apr 2026

Soft

2m 0f 0y

Class 3

15:40 Perth

The Other Mozzie

11st 12lb

J: Harry Cobden

T: L J Morgan

Three chase wins for Gavin Cromwell included comfortable win in good event at Ayr (2m, good to soft) one year ago; fluffed the start on stable debut in Cheltenham's Grand Annual but had yet to be asked for his effort when falling three out last month; now back down to that Ayr mark, while the first-time visor and booking of Harry Cobden are other points of interest.

8/1

11

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

The Other Mozzie

11st 0lb

J: Brian Hughes

T: L J Morgan

Won in good style for Gavin Cromwell at Ayr (2m, good to soft) last April and on that evidence this 3lb higher mark may not be beyond him; however, he was underwhelming on his final two runs for that yard and a major turnaround is needed on this stable debut, for which a tongue-tie goes on.

50/1

11th

6

14th Jan 2026

Yielding

2m 1f 30y

14:15 Fairyhouse

The Other Mozzie

11st 2lb

J: Conor Stone-Walsh

T: Gavin Cromwell

Two wins last winter, including a premier handicap chase at Ayr in April; ran well before fading into seventh in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham (2m4f, soft) in November; never landed a blow at Kelso early last month; plenty to prove as a result.

25/1

Form: P-4P51 D

Last run: 22 days

W: 10st 11lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 138

Form & Verdict
He's had jumping issues and should have won a Grade 2 novice chase at Ascot in December 2024 (2m3f, good to soft; bad mistake at final fence); beat just two rivals when getting off the mark in this sphere at Newbury (2m, soft) recently but that was still a very encouraging effort in first-time blinkers (retained); could make a bold bid if minimising the errors.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2

16th May 2026

Good

2m 1f 77y

Class 2

15:55 Bangor-on-Dee

Personal Ambition

11st 2lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Won three-runner novice chase by 17l at Newbury (2m, soft; first-time blinkers) in February but that form is tricky to evaluate, and he was pulled up in the Grand Annual at Cheltenham in March; still needs to prove he can handle his current handicap mark and that he's fully effective on the forecast good ground.

4/1

15

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Personal Ambition

10st 11lb

J: Kielan Woods

T: Ben Pauling

He's had jumping issues and should have won a Grade 2 novice chase at Ascot in December 2024 (2m3f, good to soft; bad mistake at final fence); beat just two rivals when getting off the mark in this sphere at Newbury (2m, soft) recently but that was still a very encouraging effort in first-time blinkers (retained); could make a bold bid if minimising the errors.

14/1

1st

3

17th Feb 2026

2m 0f 92y

Class 3

14:15 Newbury

Personal Ambition

11st 2lb

J: Ben Jones

T: Ben Pauling

Three-time hurdle winner; 0-6 over fences but highly tried on occasions and unlucky not to win a Grade 2 at Ascot last season; disappointed in that same race two months ago but new headgear could help him turn things around.

100/30

Form: 5-5111 D

Last run: 47 days

W: 10st 10lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 137

Form & Verdict
3-4 over fences, the wins coming over 2m1f/2m on heavy/good to soft; clearly knows how to get the job done and he's on an upward curve, but he's 5lb higher than for a narrow win in a small field at Warwick last time and today is a much tougher test of his credentials.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

3

15th Apr 2026

Good

2m 3f 203y

Class 1

14:40 Haydock

Jour DEvasion

11st 4lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Henry Daly

Completed this season's hat-trick over shorter trips, in lower grades and on softer surfaces; won over a similar trip to this over hurdles but on soft ground that seems to suit him ideally; a good-ground renewal of the Grand Annual proved far too tough last month.

10/1

16

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Jour DEvasion

10st 10lb

J: Sam Twiston-Davies

T: Henry Daly

3-4 over fences, the wins coming over 2m1f/2m on heavy/good to soft; clearly knows how to get the job done and he's on an upward curve, but he's 5lb higher than for a narrow win in a small field at Warwick last time and today is a much tougher test of his credentials.

16/1

1st

1

23rd Jan 2026

Good To Soft

2m 0f 54y

Class 3

14:05 Warwick

Jour DEvasion

11st 12lb

J: David Bass

T: Henry Daly

Bang-in-form 7yo who ended 2025 with convincing wins at Bangor (2m1f, heavy) and Chepstow (2m, good to soft); shooting up the weights but won't mind what the weather does here and commands respect in current mood.

6/4

Form: 17-P42

Last run: 37 days

W: 10st 7lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Reserve; up and down since winning at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) last March on second chase start but returned to form with 5l second of 14 in handicap there (2m1f, soft) last month in first-time visor (retained); not ruled out.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

13

30th Apr 2026

Yielding

2m 0f 75y

16:50 Punchestown

Golden Joy

11st 4lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Pulled up after making a bad mistake in the race in which Release The Beast was second at Leopardstown in December; stepped up from a fourth placing at Naas when second in a valuable DRF handicap; Western Diego fourth then, Ballysax Hank sixth; each-way chance.

12/1

21

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Golden Joy

10st 7lb

J: Jordan Gainford

T: Gordon Elliott

Reserve; up and down since winning at Leopardstown (2m1f, yielding) last March on second chase start but returned to form with 5l second of 14 in handicap there (2m1f, soft) last month in first-time visor (retained); not ruled out.

25/1

2nd

8

2nd Feb 2026

Soft To Heavy

2m 1f 0y

16:05 Leopardstown

Golden Joy

10st 9lb

J: Danny Gilligan

T: Gordon Elliott

Won a C&D beginners' chase last March (yielding); disappointed on subsequent handicap chase debut when tailed off (made a bad mistake four out); pulled up after making a bad mistake in the race won by Addragoole here in December, needs to step on more recent Naas effort.

20/1

Form: 26U-1U D BF

Last run: 74 days

W: 10st 7lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 134

Form & Verdict
Reserve; second-season chaser who won a shade cosily on reappearance at Newbury (2m, good to soft) in November and, although there was still a fair way to go, he was travelling nicely when unseating five out at Kempton (2m, good) in December; there is a firm suspicion he's an improved performer this season and he's one to consider.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

9

9th Apr 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 176y

Class 1

16:40 Aintree

Ryans Rocket

11st 0lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

Firmly in the picture judged on his handicap win at Newbury (2m, good to soft) in November and he drops back in trip today having weakened over 2m4f at Kempton last month; not ruled out but he made mistakes last time and has unseated on two of his last four starts; needs to cut out the blunders.

9/1

6th

4

14th Mar 2026

Good

2m 4f 110y

Class 2

15:18 Kempton

Ryans Rocket

11st 4lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

One of two hurdle wins came on this track; two later chase wins, at Chepstow and Newbury, also came at about 2m (good to soft) but he has a good chance of staying this far and is a better jumper than suggested by two unseats from his last three starts; interesting.

5/2

22

11th Mar 2026

Good To Soft

1m 7f 199y

Class 1

16:40 Cheltenham

Ryans Rocket

10st 7lb

J: Jonathan Burke

T: Fergal O’Brien

Reserve; second-season chaser who won a shade cosily on reappearance at Newbury (2m, good to soft) in November and, although there was still a fair way to go, he was travelling nicely when unseating five out at Kempton (2m, good) in December; there is a firm suspicion he's an improved performer this season and he's one to consider.

8/1

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £1276.30
Straight Forecast £520.74
Tricast £10633.19
Trifecta £50250.00

Selections

POSTDATA:

Be Aware

WEST COUNTRY:

Vanderpoel

SPOTLIGHT:

Relieved Of Duties

RP RATINGS:

Inthepocket

The Star:

Personal Ambition

Daily Mirror:

Jazzy Matty

The Times:

Vanderpoel

The Guardian:

Vanderpoel

Telegraph:

Be Aware

Daily Mail:

Be Aware

The Sun:

Be Aware

Daily Record:

Be Aware

TOPSPEED:

Relieved Of Duties

D Express:

Inthepocket