I ride my favourite horse in training on Thursday as the gutsy Top Notch goes for glory in the JLT Novices’ Chase, the opening race on day three.
I love him as he always tries his hardest, he’s got a massive heart even though he’s not the biggest and I just know he’ll dig deep for me when I need him to the most.
So, yes, I’m looking forward to it. Nicky Henderson’s horses are in great form too which is a massive plus and this horse has done nothing wrong all year.
I was very happy with him at Sandown last time, that form gives him a live chance and I think the race will be run to suit with Yorkhill and Politologue likely to be good and handy.
The ground is good and ideally I suppose you’d want it a little softer for him, but it’s not going to be an excuse if he gets beat. Hopefully that won’t happen and I’ll be celebrating afterwards in the two shades of green.
Later on I’ll be wearing the same silks aboard Ballykan in the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate.
He’s a victim of his own consistency as he runs his heart out every time and the handicapper hasn’t budged.
Last time out he ran a nice race in the BetBright Chase at Kempton, it looked as if he had a chance three out but he just tired in the closing stages before picking up again.
With that in mind the drop in trip to 2m5f could help and he’s a good jumper, he’s got a nice weight, so he could run well if we have a bit of luck.
Fences next season for Messire
Reflecting on Wednesday’s racing Messire Des Obeaux ran a nice race when third in the Neptune behind two good horses in Willoughby Court and Neon Wolf.
He could’ve done with a faster pace, as he was just caught a bit flat-footed when they quickened at the bottom of the hill. He stayed on well though and we were really happy with him.
Next season he’ll be going novice chasing and he’s a really exciting prospect for fences, that’s what he’s built for, so there’s plenty to look forward to with him.
Similar sentiments apply to Domperignon Du Lys even though he was well beaten in the Fred Winter.
It was a rough race as it always is and I encountered traffic everywhere I went. It wasn’t ideal for an inexperienced horse and his chance went when he made a mistake at the second last.
The good thing is he has come out of the race fine and he’s gained some valuable experience. He’s a nice horse and he remains a bright prospect for us.
Finally, it was great to see Might Bite finally get his Grade One in the RSA Novices’ Chase.
I was a bit worried he might get taken on for the lead but he didn’t really and Nico de Boinville filled up him nicely when he needed to. There was drama up the hill, but, what an engine he’s got.
He looks a perfect fit for the King George, doesn’t he?
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