As the new jump season approaches, I for one am getting excited about what it could bring, especially after the events of the last.
That said, I can’t believe how fast it’s come around. It only seems like yesterday, when I was writing about the ‘new season’ this time last year.
While there will be many notable events to look out for, undoubtedly, there is one that we all have almost drilled into our heads – Cheltenham Festival, which can sometimes decide the Trainer’s title.
Obviously, there is a long way to go, though, this will come around fast (again), so with that in mind, I’ve more or less given you a flavour of what we can maybe expect at next year’s edition, depending on how the next few months go.
Horses That Could Be Contenders
After last season, there are certainly a number of horses who will be in the frame for Cheltenham glory next year – in a number of races, not just the Gold Cup. Below, we’ve highlighted a few to keep an eye on over the next few months.
Fact To File
Emerging as a major contender for Willie Mullins, the horse had a dominant win in the Ryanair Chase last time out and he could well be entered into the Gold Cup and make the step up. Over the last couple of years, Mullins has cleaned up at the Cheltenham Festival and will be looking to do the same. Fact To File will certainly be one to watch.
Inothewayurthinkin
Somewhat of a shock winner in the Gold Cup, who denied heavy favourite, Galopin Des Champs a third consecutive victory and, saved the bookies millions. Undoubtedly, he will go into this race next year as the favourite, though is likely to be pushed all the way in a race that is effectively somewhat of a lottery.
Majborough
Seemingly pencilled in as a Ryanair or Champion Chase contender, he will be monitored closely over the next few months, to see how his jumping develops.
There is no doubt about his ability, while he also has amazing stamina and depending on form, he could well be entered into a top race at the festival.
Air Of Entitlement
A selection which has been earmarked as a ‘dark horse’ for the Mare’s Hurdle at the festival, he will be carefully watched in the coming weeks to see how she performs. With two wins from two, she has a powerful finish and could well be a great value bet.
Can Henderson Have A Better Festival?
Esteemed trainer, Nicky Henderson will wonder what more he has to do for his luck to change at Cheltenham.
Red hot favourite Constitution Hill incredibly fell in the Champion Hurdle last time, who was then also followed by his second-favourite, for the race, State Man in what was one of the most dramatic Cheltenham races ever.
Henderson will be hoping for a change in fortunes at the festival next year and he does have a fantastic stable.