New Contenders Emerge on the National Hunt Circuit

Several horses are making their debut over fences, signaling a potential shake-up in the upcoming National Hunt season. Trainers are carefully selecting their charges for this challenging discipline.

Promising Chase Debuts on the Horizon

One runner, previously a “fairly useful hurdler,” is set to make its chase debut. This particular horse, carrying odds of 12/1, was pulled up in a handicap hurdle at Punchestown 91 days ago. A tongue strap is being applied for the first time for this significant transition to chasing.

Another competitor, described as a “poor hurdler,” finished twelfth out of sixteen in a handicap hurdle at Ballinrobe just seven days ago. This seven-year-old also makes its chase debut and is looking to impress in new territory.

A past winner over hurdles is also stepping up to fences. Having moved to a new yard, this contender is noted as one to watch. This horse’s previous form over hurdles suggests potential for success in chase races.

Established Chasers Face New Competition

A “fairly useful chaser” secured a good second place at Tipperary 28 days ago over 16.6f. Despite this solid performance, the race conditions may have offered an advantage, and other horses in the field might present stronger winning prospects.

Meanwhile, a “useful chaser” finished fourth in a minor event hurdle at Cork 100 days ago. Switching from hurdles to the demanding discipline of chasing, this horse is considered to have leading claims. The stable also fields Royal Eagle in the same race.

A “useful hurdler” recently finished last of eight in a handicap chase at Punchestown over 20.2f, facing odds of 2/1. Reports suggest that My Great Mate is the stable’s primary contender.

Another lightly-raced runner boasts three wins from five starts last season, with their latest victory coming over hurdles at Carlisle. This horse is making its chase debut, and jockey **Paul Townend** has expressed a preference for My Great Mate.

A “fairly useful hurdler” finished a distant fourth in a novices’ hurdle at Navan over 20f in December. Currently priced at 8/1, this horse is considered of strong interest as it transitions to fences.

A “fair chaser” is looking to bounce back after finishing seventh in a novice chase at Tipperary over 19.7f, carrying odds of 28/1. This competitor’s recent performance suggests they may be vulnerable in this upcoming event.

Finally, a “fairly useful hurdler” and winner on the Flat, finished fifth on their chase debut at Tipperary over 19.7f, at odds of 5/2. Expectations are that this horse has more to offer as it gains experience in this sphere.

The transition of hurdlers to fences is a crucial part of the National Hunt calendar. In 2023, over £200 million was wagered on horse racing in the UK, highlighting the significant economic and sporting interest in these events (source: The Jockey Club, 2024).