Latest from Horse & Hound in Henry-de-bromhead

‘He read the script’: racehorse who earned +£825,000 bows out with a win on final start

Lucy Elder — Tue, 05 May 2026 17:26:44 +0000

Five-time Grade One winner Bob Olinger has settled quickly into a happy retirement after bowing out on a high at Punchestown last week.

The 11-year-old gelding, who scored three of his top-level victories at the Cheltenham Festival with jockey Rachael Blackmore, retired after winning his fifth Grade One, the Ladbrookes Champion Stayers’ Hurdle at Punchestown on Thursday (30 April), piloted by Darragh O’Keeffe.

“Bob clearly read the script for that one,” said trainer Henry de Bromhead. “The most perfect ending for a truly incredible horse, who we’ve been lucky enough to have been associated with for the last six years.”

Mr de Bromhead thanked owners the Acheson family for trusting the yard “with their third child” and congratulated the horse’s connections.

“Thank you Bob and happy retirement,” he said.

He later shared a video of the new retiree lying down and relaxing in the sunshine with the caption: “Bob taking his first day of retirement very seriously”.

Bob Olinger won his first Grade One hurdle at Naas in January 2021, making it a brace two months later with the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle title at Cheltenham. The following year, he and Rachael won the Turners Novices Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, and also went on to win the 2025 Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle. In all, he won 11 of his 22 starts under Rules and bagged more than £825,000 in prize money.

Brian Acheson had indicated beforehand that Thursday’s race would be Bob Olinger’s final start.

Following his victory, he told Racing TV the horse “has been a rock star”.

“We made up our minds over the weekend; he was 11 years old, he’d done everything, it would be greedy of me to ask him to do more next year, even though he would probably have wanted to,” he said.

“He’s always been the third child and every parent wants their children at home! I just wanted him at home.”

The horse’s first Cheltenham Festival victory, during the Covid-restricted 2021 festival, was among Mr Acheson’s favourite memories. But the one that meant the most was the Relkeel Hurdle on New Year’s Day in 2024.

“Going to Cheltenham and hearing the roar on that New Year’s Day with 35,000 people there. When he went past Strong Leader, it gave me goose bumps and we thought, ‘Right, we have our horse back’,” said Mr Acheson.

“He loves Cheltenham, he and Rachael came alive in the place. He’s something special, he really is. When he’s at home on the farm, I go down and sit in the field with him. He’ll ignore me! But he’s just a cool dude. He’s a Hollywood superstar – he read the script and he performed.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘A place of learning and hope, full of laughter and joy’: equine therapy centre opens in memory of late young jockey

Becky Murray — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:55:40 +0000

An equine therapy facility that aims to “transform opportunities for children with visual impairments and additional disabilities”, has opened in memory of the late young jockey Jack de Bromhead.

The Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre, at charity ChildVision’s Drumcondra campus, was opened on Friday (26 September) in a ceremony attended by leading trainer Henry de Bromhead, his wife Heather and their daughters Mia and Georgia.

Chris Jones, a family friend and racehorse owner, led the fundraising campaign for the facility, built in memory of Jack, who died after a fall on 3 September 2022, aged 13.

The Jack De Bromhead Equine Centre will give children who are blind, neurodiverse or with multiple disabilities access to “the best global equine activities in a supportive and purpose-designed environment” and will allow the ChildVision equine team and volunteers to reach more children, “making a life-changing difference”.

The de Bromhead family described the centre as “a wonderful legacy for our beloved Jack, a hugely missed son and brother”.

“Horses are a huge part of our lives, and we know the physical experience of riding a horse offers so many potential benefits, especially helping address a host of physical, social and emotional issues,” they said.

“The Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre will be a place of learning and hope, full of laughter and joy, traits that were such a part of Jack, all facilitated by the much-treasured horses and ponies that call the ChildVision stables home.

“We are delighted to have been part of this journey and today to see this vision become a reality with the opening. We are forever grateful to all the donors who came on board to support us – we know Jack would be really proud of what this life-changing generosity will enable for generations to come”.

Mr Jones added that the vision for the centre was to “create a space where even more children could benefit from equine-assisted therapies”.

“From the beginning of this journey, we wanted to find a fitting way to remember our wonderful friend Jack, who was a hugely talented horseman but also a kind, caring and joyful young man,” he said.

“Now Jack’s name will be forever associated not only with the equine world but with creating joy and hope for so many children. It’s been an immense privilege to be part of this campaign and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful donors who gave so generously to ensure this building became a reality. I know Jack would be really proud by what’s been enabled in his memory”.

ChildVision’s equine unit manager Lucy Dillon said: “Having a facility such as this which has been built by donors, many who were previously strangers to us but friends and family to the de Bromheads, will enable our team of dedicated staff and volunteers to help those children most in need of equine assisted activities.

“To now be in a position to help more children and not worry about things such as inclement weather or losing natural light is something we are all looking forward to in the weeks, months and years ahead. We are incredibly proud of the work we do and to see children engage with our horses and ponies in such a positive way is why we do what we do.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

(Image credit: Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre/ChildVision)

Superstar’s racing colours to raise funds for new equine therapy centre named after late teenager

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

‘It will take a nice one to beat her’: experts share their day three Cheltenham Festival racing tips

Jennifer Donald — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:20:22 +0000

The four-day 2025 Cheltenham Festival has reached the halfway point, with a dramatic first day (11 March) when first and second favourites for the Champion Hurdle, Constitution Hill and State Man, crashed out, and an emotional day yesterday, we turn our attentions to day three.

Here we bring you our Cheltenham Festival tips from horse racing experts who have shared their knowledge to help you navigate the seven races on the card today – and for tomorrow’s action too. Maybe you’ll pick a winner or two during this year’s jump racing extravaganza?

But whether you win or lose or you are simply happy to enjoy the spectacle, the Cheltenham Festival is a sporting event like no other. It is important that you gamble responsibly and you can read more advice on how to bet here. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Cheltenham Festival tips

Get £10 in FREE bets
Want to place a bet at Cheltenham Festival? Sign up to Betway and receive a £10 welcome bet.View Deal

Cheltenham Festival day three tips, and more…

Day three tips: Thursday 13 March

Sixandahalf in the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “This syndicate-owned five-year-old switched from the Flat and was an impressive winner at Fairyhouse on her hurdling debut in January. Her trainer says it will take a nice one to beat her.”

Jungle Boogie in the Ryanair Chase (3.20pm)

Trainer: Henry de Bromhead | Jockey: TBC

ITV Racing pundit Ruby Walsh says: “My outsider is Jungle Boogie. He is trained by Henry de Bromhead and is beginning to fulfill the potential he showed as a youngster.”

Day four tips: Friday 14 March

Gibbs Island in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Tom Lacey | Jockey: Stan Sheppard

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “At a decent price, Gibbs Island is worth an each-way bet. He has more speed in his pedigree than many of his rivals and is unbeaten in two starts for Tom Lacey.”

Hello Neighbour in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: Keith Donoghue

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “An improving four-year-old who will have to get past smart British contenders East India Dock and Lulamba, but jockey Keith Donoghue says he’s the horse he’s most looking forward to riding at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. The fitting of a hood seemed to help the exuberant youngster settle better last time out and he powered home to win a Grade One at the Dublin Racing Festival. A very likeable, classy ex-Flat horse who could be very smart indeed.”

Galopin Des Champs in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

ITV pundit Ruby Walsh says confidently of the second of his Cheltenham Festival tips: “Galopin des Champs will win the Boodles Gold Cup on Friday. He’s the best we’ve seen for a while and he’ll enter the history books by making it three in a row.”

Corbetts Cross in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Jockey: TBC

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “It’s impossible to oppose Galopin Des Champs but he will be a very short price and Corbetts Cross each-way could be a good bet.”

Inothewayurthinkin in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (4pm)

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Jockey: TBC

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “Last year’s Kim Muir scorer has been feeling his way in open company this season. Interesting his connections added him back into the Gold Cup field and he’s a decent alternative to the favourite.”

Cheltenham Festival tips and how our expert tippers fared in 2025

Day one tips: Tuesday 11 March

Kopek Des Bordes in the Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

ITV Racing is on air 12.45-5pm every day of the Cheltenham Festival and ITV commentator Richard Hoiles says: “This is the horse I am most looking forward to at the Festival and he lines up in the opening race. He looked a potential superstar when winning in Ireland last time and hopefully he can prove the point and get punters off to a good start.”

Racing journalist Carl Evans agrees: “Willie Mullins is likely to train plenty of winners over the four days and, while his Kopek Des Bordes is a short price in the opening race, it’s good to beat the bookies in round one.”

Kopek Des Bordes result: winner

Joyeuse in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (3.20pm)

Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Jockey: Nico de Boinville

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “A really impressive winner of Newbury’s big handicap hurdle last month and Nicky Henderson clearly feels she is on the upgrade to pitch her in against the best mares. A nice one at the prices.”

Joyeuse result: sixth

Take No Chances in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle (3.20pm)

Trainer: Dan Skelton | Jockey: Harry Skelton

H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “She’s up against mega mare Lossiemouth but could run well at a big price. I’ve loved her attitude in some tight finishes this season and she has proved she stays much further than this 2m 4f, so she will hopefully be staying on gamely up the Cheltenham hill.”

Take No Chances result: third

Constitution Hill in the Unibet Champion Hurdle (4pm)

Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Jockey: Nico de Boinville

ITV Racing’s lead presenter Ed Chamberlin has nominated the 2023 champion as his cert of the meeting in the Unibet Champion Hurdle, the highlight of Tuesday’s card. “He’s a generational talent and looks back to his best,” he says.

Constitution Hill result: fell

Murcia in the Hallgarten and Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (registered as the Fred Winter) (4.40pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Ed Chamberlin also picks out a longer shot from Tuesday’s action, saying: “She’s in the Honeysuckle silks and may not have her talent but she does look better than her handicap mark.”

Murcia result: eighth

Day two tips: Wednesday 12 March

The Yellow Clay in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Gordon Elliott | Jockey: Jack Kennedy

Leading the second day’s Cheltenham Festival tips, H&H racing editor Jennifer Donald says: “I can’t wait for this 2m 5f contest packed full of young superstars this year. I think The New Lion could well take it for the Skeltons and new owner JP McManus, while you can forgive Grade One winner Potters Charm his defeat last time out, for which there are plenty of excuses. But unbeaten Irish raider The Yellow Clay is very exciting, has proved himself in some real scraps and seems to be on an upward curve.”

The Yellow Clay result: second

Sixmilebridge in the Turners Novices’ Hurdle (1.20pm)

Trainer: Fergal O’Brien | Jockey: Kielan Woods

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Beat a smart horse when winning at Cheltenham in January and might surprise some shorter-priced runners.”

Sixmilebridge result: ninth

Ballyburn in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase (2pm)

Trainer: Willie Mullins | Jockey: Paul Townend

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Steps up in trip for this race and that is likely to suit him.”

Ballyburn result: fifth

Latenightpass in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (3.20pm)

Trainer: Tom Ellis | Jockey: Gina Andrews

Racing journalist Carl Evans says: “Although only third to Stumptown over the course and distance in December, Latenightpass is now better off at the weights and is very good over these rare obstacles.”

Latenightpass result: second

Jazzy Matty in the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup (4.40pm)

Trainer: Cian Collins | Jockey: Danny Gilligan

Racing journalist Tom Peacock says: “A winner here over hurdles who had a useful sighter over fences earlier in the season. Represents a new and shrewd, young trainer in Cian Collins, who will be keen to make his mark.”

Jazzy Matty result: winner

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘He’s a happy boy’: Cheltenham Gold Cup hero excelling in and enjoying second career

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 18:51:10 +0000

Former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner A Plus Tard has been placed at the Irish national dressage championships, within six months of his retirement from racing.

“APT”, who won in 2022 with Rachael Blackmore in the saddle for Henry de Bromhead, is living with Emily Kate Robinson in Ireland, turning his hoof to dressage and showing in style and, Emily told H&H, enjoying his new life.

H&H reported in January that the 10-year-old was to retire from racing, and Emily Kate took him on in March.

“I ride flatwork for Henry, and had been doing flatwork with him, and when he retired, I was lucky enough to be able to take him on,” Emily Kate said. “He was still sound, fit and healthy, and isn’t a horse who would have liked to completely retire. He’s always enjoyed the flatwork so this was the best option.”

Picture by Louise O’Brien (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Emily Kate is an international dressage rider who represented Ireland at the pony Europeans.

“So the rest of them here are warmbloods,” she said. “I ride racehorses in the mornings and dressage horses in the afternoons; it’s very different but I like it.”

Emily said APT, who is still owned by Cheveley Park Stud, is very clever and quick to learn, and has been enjoying doing something a bit different; having won at preliminary level, he qualified for the preliminary final at the Dressage Ireland championships and came fifth, this month.

“His category is the equivalent of British Dressage gold, and he was in with all warmbloods,” Emily Kate said. “He’s so clever, in every way; he’s so quick to learn, you only have to teach him something once, and he’s a great character. A little bit cheeky, but he’s a pet, an angel.”

Emily Kate and APT have also been showing; they competed in the racehorse to riding horse class at Balmoral Show in May, and came second, Emily Kate said APT shows perfectly the versatility of former racehorses.

“They’re so adaptable,” she said. “It’s nice for him to have a second job, and for me to have a nice fun horse, no pressure. It’s about enjoying him and seeing how far he’ll go. I don’t want to put pressure on him but we’ll definitely look to the nationals again next year.

“I wouldn’t have thought he’d have taken to it all so quickly but he’s adapted so easily and really enjoys it. He goes round with his ears pricked all the time, he’s a happy boy.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Blenheim Horse Trials, Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Superstar’s racing colours to raise funds for new equine therapy centre named after late teenager

Becky Murray — Wed, 01 May 2024 06:03:55 +0000

A new equine therapy centre will be named in memory of Jack de Bromhead – as Henry de Bromhead-trained superstar mare Honeysuckle’s colours go up for auction to help fund the facility’s running costs.

The Jack de Bromhead Equine Therapy Centre will be built this year at charity ChildVision’s campus at Drumcondra, Dublin, as a result of donations from a group of family and friends of the de Bromhead family. The centre will have an indoor arena, up to 10 stables, learning space and ancillary accommodation.

Jack, the 13-year-old son of Grand National and Gold Cup-winning trainer Henry, died after a fall at Glenbeigh Racing Festival on 3 September 2022.

Chris Jones, a family friend and racehorse owner, led the fundraising campaign with the blessing of Jack’s parents Henry and Heather, and the the €1,000,000 (£854,418) target was met in December. The facility will give children who are blind, multi-disabled and neurodiverse access to “the best global equine activities in a supportive and purpose-designed environment” and will allow the ChildVision equine team and volunteers to reach more children, “making a life-changing difference”.

An image of what the Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre will look like. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit ChildVision last summer and to see first-hand the therapeutic impact that equine can have on children with complex needs. I knew that Henry and Heather already had a connection to ChildVision and knowing that many friends and family members wanted to find some way to mark Jack’s love of horses in a tangible way, the Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre concept came to fruition,” said Chris.

“The response to my call for donations was unbelievably kind and generous. It’s a testament to the high regard the de Bromheads are held in that we are in a position to make the equine centre at ChildVision in Jack’s name a reality.”

To help with the centre’s operating costs, Honeysuckle’s owner Kenny Alexander, has donated the racing colours Rachael Blackmore wore in all their major races including four Cheltenham Festival victories and nine Irish Grade Ones, for auction. The silks, signed by Rachael, Henry, and Kenny, will be auctioned at the Goffs sale at the Punchestown Festival on 2 May.

Rachael said Honeysuckle gave her “some of the best days of my career” and the colours hold a lot of special memories.

“Zoe, Henry’s travelling head girl, always kept this one special set aside just for Honeysuckle and I wore them in all of Honeysuckle’s big days at Fairyhouse, Leopardstown, Cheltenham and Punchestown,” she said.

“They are going to be auctioned, and all money raised will be donated to the operating costs of the new Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre. The donation will make a lasting difference to those children and their families who will benefit so much from the amazing work that they do at ChildVision, where hopefully many more great memories will be made.”

The de Bromhead family said the centre will be a “wonderful legacy for our beloved Jack, a hugely missed son and brother”.

“More so, it will be a place of learning and hope, full of laughter and joy, traits that were such a part of Jack, all facilitated by the much-treasured horses and ponies that call the ChildVision stables home.

“We are looking forward to following the development and construction of the new equine therapeutic centre and being there to cut the ribbon when it is completed. We are for ever grateful to those who came on board to support us – we know Jack would be really proud of what this life-changing generosity will enable.”

ChildVision chief executive Barry Sheridan added that the charity had already raised more than €500,000 towards the centre, but “without this extraordinary fundraising support we would not have been in a position to break ground in 2024 on this vital facility”.

You might also be interested in:

Gloucestershire , United Kingdom - 14 March 2023; Honeysuckle, with Rachael Blackmore up, jump the last, first time round, on their way to win the Close Brothers Mares' Hurdle during day one of the Cheltenham Racing Festival at Prestbury Park in Cheltenham, England. (Photo By Seb Daly/Sportsfile via Getty Images) (Image credit: Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Honeysuckle provides poignant victory on fairytale end to her career

(Image credit: Sportsfile via Getty Images)

‘To win is unreal’: Rachael Blackmore and Honeysuckle win 2022 Cheltenham Festival Champion Hurdle

(Image credit: Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Joy as fan favourite superstar mare delivers first foal

(Image credit: Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

‘It’s incredible’: Rachael Blackmore takes first Queen Mother Champion Chase victory

Gemma Redrup — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:30:50 +0000

Captain Guinness provided Rachael Blackmore with her first Queen Mother Champion Chase victory at the Cheltenham Festival this afternoon (13 March).

The nine-year-old, trained by Henry De Bromhead and owned by Declan Landy capitalised on a bad mistake from the Willie Mullins-trained red-hot favourite El Fabiolo, who was swiftly pulled up when he guessed at the fence away from the stands early on.

Rachael said of the gelding’s first Grade One victory: “He travelled incredibly and he jumped really well, but it felt like a long hill today. I’m so pleased for his owner as he’s been knocking on the door in these big races, but this is the biggest of his division.

“It’s incredible, just incredible and I’m so happy to do it on this horse. He always runs his race and he is a really enjoyable horse to ride – it’s magic.”

Mr De Bromhead was saddling his fourth Champion Chase winner following wins for Sizing Europe, Special Tiara and Put The Kettle On.

“He’s had a tricky season – at Christmas he had his atrial fibrillation. Anyway, all that was fine, he passed all his tests, and it’s great to see him back. We’ve always said he deserved to win a Grade One so much, and to win this is incredible,” said Mr De Bromhead.

Gentleman De Mee, who threatened to become the 100th festival winner for Mr Mullins, finished half a length second under Mark Walsh after serving up a battle to Captain Guinness.

Rank outsider Funambule Sivola, who went off at 100/1, finished third in the Queen Mother Champion Chase and was the only other finisher under Charlie Deutsch for trainer Venetia Williams.

The Alan King-trained Edwardstone, who was best of the British hopes, blazed a trail throughout the race until falling at the penultimate under Tom Cannon. Both horse and jockey walked away.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

(Image credit: Sportsfile via Getty Images)

All you need to know about Gold Cup winner Minella Indo, currently ‘having fun’ going cross-country

Jennifer Donald — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 18:30:42 +0000

The 2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Minella Indo made his Cheltenham racecourse cross-country race debut in December, finishing fourth behind Grand National contender Latenightpass.

He now heads to the Cheltenham Festival as favourite for Wednesday’s Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase and trainer Henry de Bromhead is bullish about the 11-year-old gelding’s chances.

“He loved the cross-country course in December and this time it’s a conditions chase,” he explained of Minella Indo’s Cheltenham Festival target.

“We felt we had to go for the cross-country race in December to give him a taste of it, as it would be tough to go for it first time at The Festival. Gavin Sheehan had schooled him at the previous meeting and was delighted with him and Rachel Blackmore was delighted with him in the race. He had top weight but you couldn’t have asked for a better run.”

Minella Indo: “It’s good fun for a horse like him to prolong his career”

Minella Indo, who runs in the colours of Barry Maloney, first rose to prominence when winning the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021, and has now won three Grade One races, and finished second to stable-mate A Plus Tard in the 2022 Gold Cup with Robert Power in the saddle.

But he had also shown some mixed form since winning the Blue Riband race at the Cheltenham Festival with jockey Jack Kennedy three years ago and was pulled up in the race last year.

Jack Kennedy riding Minella Indo (R) clear the last to win The WellChild Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase from Rachael Blackmore and A Plus Tard (red) at Cheltenham in 2021. (Image credit: Getty Images)

Minella Indo now seems to be relishing this change of direction in preparation for his debut in next month’s Randox Grand National at Aintree, a race for which he is currently a 25/1 shot.

“He is in mighty form. It seems a good route to the Grand National as Gordon Elliott and others have proved,” says Henry. “He has always enjoyed cross-county and was doing it even when he was running in the Gold Cup. He just loves it.

“It’s lovely and good fun for a horse like him to prolong his career.”

You might also like to read…

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Minella Indo: 9 things you need to know about the reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup winner

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Galopin Des Champs: everything you need to know about this two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup victor

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘He’s in great order’: could State Man take the Champion Hurdle crown at the Cheltenham Festival?

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Fairytale winner among Grand National entries for 2024

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:12:40 +0000

The Grand National entries for the 2024 race, which takes place at Aintree Racecourse on 13 April, have been announced.

Among the 94 entries is 2023 Grand National winner Corach Rambler, trained by Lucinda Russell and owned by The Ramblers.

Noble Yeats, who won in 2022 and finished fourth last year, is also engaged again as is Vanillier, the runner-up 12 months ago.

There is a 26-strong entry from Irish trainer Gordon Elliott, which beats the record total of 22 he put in the Grand National in 2019. He has won the race three times; once with Silver Birch and twice with Tiger Roll.

The total number of horses accepted to run in the Grand National has been reduced from 40 to 34 for 2024, and the final runners will be confirmed 48 hours before the race, which starts at a revised time of 4pm, moved from the later 5.15pm off time, which had been in place since 2016.

Of the 94 Grand National entries, 61 are Irish-trained, which beats the previous highest number of 54, set last year when Ireland provided 25 of the 39 runners on the day.

The deadline for trainers to enter their horses was on 6 February and the next staging post is 20 February, when the British Horseracing Authority will announce the weight that each horse will be required to carry in the race.

Grand National entries for 2024

Adamantly Chosen (IRE), seven years old, owned by the Watch This Space Syndicate and trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Ain’t That A Shame (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Robcour, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Amirite (IRE), eight years old, owned by Patrick Hale, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Angels Dawn (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Alfred Sweetnam, trained by S. Curling (Ireland).

Annual Invictus (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Thomas Michael Smith, trained by Chris Gordon.

Ashtown Lad (IRE), 10 year sold, owned by Darren & Annaley Yates, trained by Dan Skelton.

Ash Tree Meadow (FR), eight years old, owned by Alymer Stud Ltd, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Asterion Forlonge (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mrs J. Donnelly, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Battleoverdoyen (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Pioneer Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Bronn (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Busselton (FR), seven years old, owned by Mr Michael Hilary Burke, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien (Ireland).

Capodanno (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Celebre d’Allen (FR), 12 years old, owned by Mr Allan Stennett, trained by Philip Hobbs & Johnson White.

Cepage (FR), 12 years old, owned by The Bellamy Partnership, trained by Venetia Williams.

Chambard (FR), 12 years old, owned by David & Carol Shaw, trained by Venetia Williams.

Chemical Energy (IRE), eight years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Classic Getaway (IRE), eight years old, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Coko Beach (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Conflated (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Corach Rambler (IRE), 10 years old, owned by The Ramblers, trained by Lucinda Russell.

Delta Work (FR), 11 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Desertmore House (IRE), nine years old, owned by O.B.P Carroll/Anthony Vaughan, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Diol Ker (FR), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Dunboyne (IRE), nine years old, owned by S.P O’Connor, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Dusart (IRE), nine years old, owned by Bartlett & Carthy, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Eklat de Rire (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mr P. Davies, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Eldorado Allen (FR), 10 years old, owned by J P Romans & Terry Warner, trained by Joe Tizzard.

Embittered (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Empire Steel (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Alan Wight, trained by Sandy Thomson.

Fakiera (FR), nine years old, owned by Mrs Martina Griffin, trained by Eoin Griffin (Ireland).

Fakir d’Alene (FR), nine years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Fakir d’Oudairies (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by Joseph Patrick O’Brien (Ireland).

Famous Bridge (IRE), eight years old, owned by Hemmings Racing, trained by Nicky Richards.

Fantastic Lady (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr E. R Hanbury, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Farouk d’Alene (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Favori de Champdou (FR), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Fiddlerontheroof (IRE), 10 years old, owned by The Minions, trained by Jim Boyle.

Foxy Jacks (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Ms Rachel Carthy, trained by M. F Morris (Ireland).

Frontal Assault (IRE), nine years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Full Back (FR), nine years old, owned by Mr Ashley Head, trained by Gary Moore.

Fury Road (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Sierra Pacific & Pioneer Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Galia des Liteaux (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr Michael Ariss, trained by Dan Skelton.

Galvin (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr R. A Bartlett, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Gevrey (FR), eight years old, owned by Denis Gallagher Racing, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Glengouly (FR), eight years old, owned by Roaringwater Syndicate, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Good Boy Bobby (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Dash Grange Stud, trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies.

Hewick (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr T. J McDonald, trained by John Joseph Hanlon (Ireland).

Highland Hunter (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Nic Brereton & Lindsey Brennan, trained by Fergal O’Brien.

I Am Maximus (FR), eight years ole, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Iron Bridge (IRE), eight years old, owned by Hemmings Racing, trained by Jonjo O’Neill.

Its On The Line (IRE), seven years old, owned by C. C. R. Racing Syndicate, trained by Emmet Mullins (Ireland).

James du Berlais (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Janidil (FR), 10 years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Kinondo Kwetu, eight years old, owned by Gunalt Partnership, trained by Sam England.

Kitty’s Light, eight years old, owned by R J Bedford & All Stars Sports Racing, trained by Christian Williams.

Latenightpass, 11 years old, owned by Mrs P. A. Ellis, trained by Dan Skelton.

Le Milos, nine years old, owned by The Jolly Good Partnership, trained by Dan Skelton.

Letsbeclearaboutit (IRE), nine years old, owned by Alymer Stud Ltd, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Limerick Lace (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr John P. McManus, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Longhouse Poet (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Sean & Bernardine Mulryan, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Macs Charm (IRE), nine years old, owned by Macs Charm Syndicate, trained by Colm A. Murphy (Ireland).

Mac Tottie, 11 years old, owned by Steve & Jackie Fleetham, trained by Peter Bowen.

Mahler Mission (IRE), eight years old, owned by Colm Herron & Rockview Racing Syndicate, trained by John McConnell (Ireland).

Malina Girl (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mrs J. M. Russell, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Meetingofthewaters (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr P. Byrne, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Minella Crooner (IRE), eight years ole, owned by KTDA Racing/Nick Courtney/Cillian Moran, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Minella Indo (IRE), 11 years old, owned by Mr Barry Maloney, trained by Henry de Bromhead (Ireland).

Minella Trump (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr T. G. Leslie, trained by Donald McCain.

Mister Coffey (FR), nine years old, owned by Lady Bamford & Alice Bamford, trained by Nicky Henderson.

Monbeg Genius (IRE), eight years old, owned by Barrowman Racing Limited, trained by Jonjo O’Neill.

Moroder (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mrs Ann Leftley, trained by Seamus Mullins.

Mr Incredible (IRE), eight years old, owned by Paul Byrne & J. Carthy, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Nassalam (FR), seven years old, owned by John and Yvonne Stone, trained by Gary Moore.

Noble Yeats (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr Robert Waley-Cohen, trained by Emmet Mullins (Ireland).

Ontheropes (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Cheveley Park Stud, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

Panda Boy (IRE), eight years old, owned by Old Pals Partnership, trained by Martin Brassil (Ireland).

Placenet (FR), seven years old, owned by Prof C Tisdall & G Thompson, trained by David Pipe.

Revels Hill (IRE), nine years old, owned by Noel Fehily Racing Syndicates-Revels Hil, trained by Harry Fry.

Riaan (IRE), seven years old, owned by Philip J. Reynolds, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Roi Mage (FR), 12 years old, owned by Pryde/Van Der Hoeven/McGladery/Beaumont, trained by Patrick Griffin (Ireland).

Royal Thief (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Run Wild Fred (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Sail Away (FR), eight years old, owned by Mr and Mrs J. D. Cotton, trained by Dan Skelton.

Salvador Ziggy (IRE), eight years old, owned by William Hurley/Mrs Aisling Hurley, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Samcro (IRE), 12 years old, owned by Gigginstown House Stud, trained Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Shakem Up’arry (IRE), 10 years old, owned by Mr Harry Redknapp, trained by Ben Pauling.

So des Flos (FR), seven years old, trained Mr David Lestrange, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Stattler (IRE), nine years old, owned by Mr R. A. Bartlett, trained by W. P. Mullins (Ireland).

The Goffer (IRE), seven years old, owned by Mr Allan Snow, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Threeunderthrufive (IRE), nine years old, owned by the McNeill Family, trained by Paul Nicholls.

Tommie Beau (IRE), nine years old, owned by Simon & Christine Prout, trained by Seamus Mullins.

Tullybeg (IRE), nine years old, owned by Bective Stud, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

Vanillier (FR), nine years old, owned by Mrs H. M. Keaveney, trained by Gavin Cromwell (Ireland).

Where It All Began (IRE), eight years old, owned by Patrick & Scott Bryceland, and the McNeill Family, trained by Gordon Elliott (Ireland).

‘He was sublime’: Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning superstar retires from racing aged 10

Lucy Elder — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:28:02 +0000

A Plus Tard, the four-tie Grade One winner with whom Rachael Blackmore secured a historic Cheltenham Gold Cup victory in 2022, has been retired from racing aged 10.

Cheveley Park Stud’s gelding, trained by Henry de Bromhead, enjoyed his finest sporting hour that day at Prestbury Park – sprinting up the Cheltenham hill to win by 15 lengths. In doing so, Rachael became the first female jockey to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

“He was sublime that day, not only visually impressive, but also one of the highest rated winners of the Gold Cup in the last 30 years, as well as being one of the best horses we have ever had in our yard,” said Henry.

“We were delighted when this very special horse won Cheveley Park Stud their first Gold Cup.”

The Kapgarde son was the first horse Henry trained for Cheveley Park Stud and the Thompson family. He had won over hurdles in France before he was bought by bloodstock agent Alex Elliott for the stud.

He won the Close Brothers Novices Handicap at the Cheltenham Festival in his first season running in the Cheveley Park Stud colours. His major wins also included the Grade One Savills Chase at Leopardstown in 2020 and a 22-length victory in the 2021 Betfair Chase at Haydock. Rachael partnered the gelding to five of his six wins for Henry and Cheveley Park Stud, Darragh O’Keeffe the other.

He will now unwind at Knockeen, then return to Cheveley Park Stud for his retirement.

Cheveley Park Stud director Richard Thompson said: “My father and I sat down in early 2018 and agreed a plan to buy some National Hunt horses to be trained in Ireland with the aim of winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

“Just over four years later, we achieved this objective when Rachael Blackmore rode A Plus Tard to victory in front of 70,000 people at the first Cheltenham Festival post Covid. My father watched A Plus Tard win the Savills Chase in a thrilling finish on television on 28 December 2020. He died the very next day. It was the last horse race he ever watched.”

He added: “A Plus Tard was also the first Cheltenham winner in the red, white and blue Cheveley Park Stud colours and also Rachael Blackmore’s first winner at Cheltenham, in the 2019 Listed Close Brothers Novices Chase.

“For all of the above reasons, A Plus Tard will always be a very special horse in the history of my parents’ ownership of Cheveley Park Stud.

“A special thank you to Henry de Bromhead and all the team at Knockeen and to Rachael too. To win the Cheltenham Gold Cup is the Holy Grail of National Hunt racing and we will never forget 18 March 2022.”

‘I’ll always be grateful’: life-changing Grand National hero bows out

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:02:40 +0000

Minella Times, the horse Rachael Blackmore rode to victory in the 2021 Grand National as the first female to win the race (pictured, right), has been retired from racing.

The Henry De Bromhead-trained 10-year-old, who is owned by JP McManus, was a six-and-a-half-length winner of the 2021 Grand National and was being prepared for another attempt in the race this April when he experienced a setback.

Henry said: “He suffered a setback yesterday so we have taken the decision to retire him.

“He absolutely loved it at Aintree. He’d had a really good season coming up to it, having been placed in a couple of really competitive handicap chases, and the McManuses were keen to go for the race. It was an amazing day and one of our best.

“Winning any of those big races is incredible, but the National was an amazing day in its own right and the fact that Rachael was the first woman to win the race made it even better. Winning the race for the McManuses was wonderful, especially as they’ve been involved in the game for so long.”

Minella Times, who is by Oscar, retires having won four races from 26 starts under Rules and earned £486,876 in prize money during his career, but was pulled up in both of his starts this season.

Rachael said: “He’s such a special horse for me and he gave me the best day in racing that I’ve had – and there’s a lot of hot competition for that!

“It was such an incredible day and you just have so much gratitude for the horse when they give you something like he did. It was an incredible day and to be able to do it in the colours of JP McManus and for Henry just made it even more special. He’s always been a yard favourite I think and Henry and all the team have done such an incredible job with him to achieve that, so I’ll always be so grateful to Henry and everyone down there for what they did in getting him to win the race.”

Recalling her success in 2021, she said: “He was just such a fabulous jumper. He jumped so well from fence to fence. Obviously we got a lot of luck in the race and got a beautiful passage throughout, so luck was definitely on our side and you need that in a Grand National.

“He’s just such an intelligent horse and it was such an enjoyable race to ride in, aside from going over the line which took it to a whole different stratosphere. Actually riding in the race was electric and jockeys always say that just getting around in the National gives you a bit of a kick and it’s true, there’s something different about it. I already had that buzz from him, it’s an incredible feeling to get round, so to actually win the race was incredible.”

Rachael added that Minella Times would have a “wonderful” retirement, in Martinstown, JP McManus’ Irish stud.

“I went to see him in the summer of 2021 and they definitely pull out all the stops down there,” she said.

‘I can’t believe it’: Rachael Blackmore becomes first female to win Cheltenham Gold Cup

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 15:42:38 +0000

Rachael Blackmore wrote another page in the history books today (18 March) when becoming the first female jockey to win the Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival. She was riding A Plus Tard, aboard who she was second in this race last year, and who is trained by Henry de Bromhead and owned by Cheveley Park Stud.

“I can’t believe it – I’m so lucky to be getting to ride all these amazing horses,” said Rachael, who also won the Champion Hurdle earlier this week. “Being attached to Henry’s yard is phenomenal and this horse in unbelievable. I don’t know what to say. These are such special days – I wish I had something better to say, but I can’t. I can’t explain how fricking lucky I feel.

“I was where I wanted to be during the race – I maybe had more horses in front of me than I had planned, but I had the three horses around me that I wanted and with that wall of horses in front of me, it helped prevent me from going too soon like I did last year, when I got beaten.”

CHELTENHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 18: Rachael Blackmore on A Plus Tard clear the last ahead of Robbie Power on Minella Indo to win The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase race during day four of the Cheltenham Festival 2022 at Cheltenham Racecourse on March 18, 2022 in Cheltenham, England. (Photo by Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images) (Image credit: Getty Images)

When asked what advice Rachael would give budding young jockeys hoping to follow in her footsteps, she said: “When I took out my licence, I didn’t think I would be riding at Cheltenham, let alone a favourite in the Gold Cup. It’s proof that anything can happen.”

Henry de Bromhead trained the winner and runner-up in the Gold Cup in 2021, and he repeated that again this year, with last year’s winner, Minella Indo, finishing second this time around.

“I can’t believe it – it’s just incredible and fair play to everyone involved,” Henry said. “I thought Rachael was so brave, sitting and sitting, and the pace A Plus Tard showed at the end of the three miles was incredible.”

CHELTENHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 18: Rachael Blackmore kisses the Gold Cup after riding A Plus Tard to win The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase on day four of The Festival at Cheltenham Racecourse on March 18, 2022 in Cheltenham, England. (Photo by Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images) (Image credit: Getty Images)

Richard Thompson, a representative of Cheveley Park Stud and son of the late David Johnson, who founded the stud, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic, winning the Gold Cup. My father would be loving this. He was behind the project and this horse was one of the last he saw win before he died. He watched the Gold Cup obviously for many years, and to win it is incredible. I can’t even speak. It’s a fantastic day for the family. We know he’s got so much quality and Rachael rode the perfect race. It’s the Gold Cup, anything can happen, but it looked so smooth.”

British runner Protektorat was third under Harry Skelton for his brother Dan who trains the seven-year-old and owners Sir Alex Ferguson, Ged Mason and John and Lisa Hales.

You might also be interested in:

Put The Kettle On: everything you need to know about this key Cheltenham Festival contender

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 14:44:27 +0000

Put The Kettle On is one of the top chasers in National Hunt (jump) racing at the moment. Here, we find out a little bit more about her ahead of the Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March 2022).

1. Put The Kettle On is an eight-year-old mare (born on 10 March 2014).

2. She is owned by the One For Luck Racing Syndicate.

3. She was bred by Butlersgrove Stud in Ireland.

4. Put The Kettle On is by Stowaway and is out of Name For Fame, who is by Quest For Fame.

5. She is trained by top Irish trainer Henry de Bromhead.

6. So far, Put The Kettle On has won nine of her 19 career starts, with seven of those victories coming over chase fences.

7. She has amassed over £410,000 in prize money to-date.

8. Her biggest victories so far came in two Grade One races, both at Cheltenham Festival. One came in the Arkle Challenge Trophy novices’ chase in 2020 and the other came in the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2021.

9. Put The Kettle On is declared to run in the Grade One Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival on Wednesday 16 March 2022.

10. She will be ridden by Aidan Coleman at the Cheltenham Festival, who has ridden this mare in six of her races under Rules, including both of her Cheltenham Festival victories.

Keep up to date with all of Horse & Hound’s Cheltenham coverage this week via horseandhound.co.uk, where you will be able to read all of the latest news and features surrounding The Festival.

A Plus Tard: everything you need to know about this key Cheltenham Festival contender

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 14:42:19 +0000

A Plus Tard is one of the top chasers in National Hunt (jump) racing at the moment. Here, we find out a little bit more about him ahead of the Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March 2022).

1. A Plus Tard is an eight-year-old gelding (born on 6 February 2014).

2. He is owned by Cheveley Park Stud.

3. He was bred by Madame Henri Devin in France.

4. A Plus Tard is by Kapgarde and is out of Turboka, who is by Kahyasi.

5. He has a full brother, Kap Ateuil, who is one year younger than A Plus Tard and is trained in Britain by Toby Lawes. So far, Kap Ateuil has won five of his 16 races under Rules.

6. A Plus Tard is trained by top Irish trainer Henry de Bromhead.

7. So far, A Plus Tard has won seven of his 18 career starts.

8. He has amassed over £570,000 in prize money to-date.

9. His name means “see you later” in French.

10. A Plus Tard’s racing career first got underway in France, when he was trained by Dominique Bressou during the 2017/18 season. A Plus Tard won two of his five starts in France and was never placed outside the top three.

11. His biggest victories so far have come in three Grade One races. The first was in the Paddy’s Rewards Club “Loyalty’s Dead, Live For Rewards” Chase at Leopardstown in 2019, and the second was in the Savills Chase in December 2020, which was also at Leopardstown. His third and most recent Grade One victory came in the Betfair Chase at Haydock in November 2021.

12. A Plus Tard is entered to run in the big Grade One Cheltenham Gold Cup at the Cheltenham Festival on Friday 18 March 2022.

13. He has been ridden by Rachael Blackmore in most of his victories under Rules, including two of his Grade One wins – he was ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe in the other.

Keep up-to-date with all of Horse & Hound’s Cheltenham coverage this week via horseandhound.co.uk, where you will be able to read all of the latest news and features surrounding The Festival.

Bob Olinger: everything you need to know about this key Cheltenham Festival contender

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 09:12:36 +0000

Bob Olinger is one of the top novice chasers in National Hunt (jump) racing at the moment. Here, we find out a little bit more about him ahead of the Cheltenham Festival (15–18 March 2022).

1. Bob Olinger is a seven-year-old gelding (born on 11 May 2015).

2. He is owned by the company Robcour.

3. He was bred by Kenneth Parkhill in Ireland.

4. Bob Olinger is by Sholokhov and is out of Zenaide, who is by Zaffaran.

5. He is trained by top Irish trainer Henry de Bromhead.

6. So far, Bob Olinger has won seven of his eight career starts, with one of those victories coming in a point-to-point in November 2019 before he started racing under Rules.

7. He has amassed over £133,000 in prize money to-date.

8. His biggest victories so far came in two Grade One races; one in the Lawlor’s Of Naas novices’ hurdle at Naas in January 2021 and the other in the Ballymore novices’ hurdle at Cheltenham Festival in 2021.

9. Bob Olinger is entered to run in the Grade One Turners Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival on Thursday 17 March 2022.

10. He has been ridden by Rachael Blackmore in most of his victories under Rules, including both of his Grade One wins.

Keep up-to-date with all of Horse & Hound’s Cheltenham coverage this week via horseandhound.co.uk, where you will be able to read all of the latest news and features surrounding The Festival.