Festival Novice Hurdles - Results & Analysis

rorydelargy

rorydelargy

At the Start
Joined
May 15, 2005
Messages
3,806
Location
London
SPINAL RESEARCH SUPREME NOVICES' HURDLE PREVIOUS RESULTS
2009-1ST-GO NATIVE 6-11-07 O-Docado Syndicate; T-Noel Meade ; J-Paul Carberry; 12/1
2ND-Medermit 5-11-07 O-The Dunkley & Reilly Partnership; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 12/1
3RD-Somersby 5-11-07 O-Camilla Radford; T-Henrietta Knight; J-Dominic Elsworth; 40/1
20 ran, Time-4m 1.00s; Dist-nk, 2¾ 9/4 Fav Cousin Vinny (5th)
2008-1ST-CAPTAIN CEE BEE 7-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Edward Harty ; J-Robert Thornton; 17/2
2ND-Binocular 4-10-13 O-J P McManus; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Tony McCoy; 8/1 Co Fav
3RD-Snap Tie 6-11-07 O-Diana Whateley; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 20/1
22 ran, Time-4m 6.45s; Dist-2, 4½ 8/1 Co Favs Pigeon Island (11th), Muirhead (12th)
2007-1ST-EBAZIYAN 6-11-07 O-Peter Garvey; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Davy Condon; 40/1
2ND-Granit Jack 5-11-07 O-John Hales; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Ruby Walsh; 15/2
3RD-Amaretto Rose 6-11-00 O-Weatherbys RC; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Mick Fitzgerald; 2/1 Fav
22 ran, Time-3m 56.1s; Dist-3, nk
2006-1ST-NOLAND 5-11-07 O-John Hales; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Ruby Walsh; 6/1
2ND-Straw Bear 5-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Nick Gifford; J-Tony McCoy; 11/1
3RD-Buena Vista 5-11-07 O-Matt Archer & Jean Broadhurst; T-Martin Pipe; J-Timmy Murphy; 14/1
20 ran, Time-3m 54.50s; Dist-nk, 1¼ 5/2 Fav Sweet Wake (5th)
2005-1ST-ARCALIS 5-11-07 O-Andrea & Graham Wylie; T-Howard Johnson; J-Graham Lee: 20/1
2ND-Wild Passion 5-11-07 O-Des Sharkey; T-Noel Meade ; J-Paul Carberry; 10/1
3RD-Dusky Warbler 6-11-07 O-Mike Charlton & Rodger Sargent; T-Gary Moore; J-Jamie Moore; 20/1
20 ran, Time-3m 53.00s; Dist-6, ½ 13/2 Fav Marcel (13th)
2004-1ST-BRAVE INCA 6-11-07 O-Novices Syndicate; T-Colm Murphy ; J-Barry Cash; 7/2 Fav
2ND-War Of Attrition 5-11-07 O-Gigginstown House Stud; T-Mouse Morris ; J-Conor O’Dwyer; 33/1
3RD-Fleet Street 5-11-07 O-Henry Ponsonby; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Andrew Tinkler; 20/1
19 ran, Time-3m 55.60s; Dist-nk, 7
2003-1ST-BACK IN FRONT 6-11-08 O-Dermot Cox; T-Edward O’Grady; J-Norman Williamson; 3/1 F
2ND-Kicking King 5-11-08 O-Conor Clarkson; T-Tom Taaffe ; J-Barry Geraghty; 13/2
3RD-Chauvinist 8-11-08 O-Bunny & Nick Roberts; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Mick Fitzgerald; 20/1
19 ran, Time-3m 56.80s; Dist-10, 4
2002-1ST-LIKE-A-BUTTERFLY 8-11-03 O-J P McManus; T-Christy Roche ; J-Charlie Swan; 7/4 Fav
2ND-Westender 6-11-08 O-Matt Archer and Jean Broadhurst; T-Martin Pipe; J-Tony McCoy; 6/1
3RD-In Contrast 6-11-08 O-Peter Emery and A Staple; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 16/1
28 ran, Time-3m 54.25s; Dist-nk, 2½
2001 - Cancelled (Foot and Mouth Disease)
2000-1ST-SAUSALITO BAY 6-11-08 O-High St Racing Synd; T- Noel Meade ; J-Paul Carberry; 14/1
2ND-Best Mate 5-11-08 O-Jim Lewis; T-Henrietta Knight; J-Jim Culloty; 6/1
3RD-Youlneverwalkalone 6-11-08 O-J P McManus; T-Christy Roche ; J-Conor O’Dwyer; 5/4 Fav
15 ran, Time-3m 51.70s; Dist-¾, 1¼
1999-1ST-HORS LA LOI III 4-11-00 O-Paul Green; T-Martin Pipe; J-Tony McCoy; 9/2
2ND-Joe Mac 5-11-08 O-J P McManus; T-Christy Roche ; J-Conor O’Dwyer; 6/1
3RD-Arctic Fancy 6-11-08 O-The Cool Customers; T-Julian Smyth-Osbourne; J-Warren Marston; 66/1
20 ran, Time-3m 54.6s; Dist-17, 7 11/4 Fav Cardinal Hill (ur)
1998-1ST-FRENCH BALLERINA 5-11-03 O-Sue Magnier; T-Pat Flynn ; J-Graham Bradley; 10/1
2ND-His Song 5-11-08 O-David Lloyd; T-Mouse Morris ; J-Richard Hughes; 4/1 Fav
3RD-Gatflax 6-11-08 O-Giles Clarke; T-Nigel Twiston-Davies; J-Carl Llewellyn; 16/1
30 ran, Time-3m 50.9s, Dist-7, 1
1997-1ST-SHADOW LEADER 6-11-08 O-James Blackshaw; T-Charles Egerton; J-Jamie Osborne; 5/1
2ND-Princeful 6-11-08 O-Robert & Elizabeth Hitchins; Trainer-Jenny Pitman; J-Rodney Farrant; 25/1
3RD-Nordic Breeze 5-11-08 O-Malcolm Jones; T-Martin Pipe; J-David Walsh; 100/1
16 ran, Time-3m 49.5s, Dist-10, ½ 2/1 Fav Finnegan’s Hollow (f)
1996-1ST-INDEFENCE 5-11-08 O-Indef Limited; T-Jenny Pitman; J-Warren Marston; 25/1
2ND-Kimanicky 6-11-08 O-Elaine Barnes; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Mick Fitzgerald; 11/2
3RD-Castle Sweep 5-11-08 O-Lord Vestey; T-David Nicholson; J-Peter Niven; 7/2 Fav
27 ran, Time-4m 1.8s, Dist-8, hd

SPINAL RESEARCH SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE ROLL OF HONOUR
(williamhill.com Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2009, Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2006-2008, Letheby & Christopher Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2004-2005, Gerrard Wealth Management Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2003, Gerrard Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2001-02, Capel Cure Sharp Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 2000, Citroen Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 1994-99,Trafalgar House Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 1991-93, Waterford Crystal Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 1978-90, Lloyds Bank Champion Novice Hurdle 1974-1977, Gloucestershire Hurdle before 1974)

2009 Go Native 6-11-07 Paul Carberry Noel Meade IRE Docado Syndicate 12/1 20
2008 Captain Cee Bee 7-11-07 Robert Thornton Edward Harty IRE J P McManus 17/2 22
2007 Ebaziyan 6-11-07 Davy Condon Willie Mullins IRE Peter Garvey 40/1 22
2006 Noland 5-11-07 Ruby Walsh Paul Nicholls John Hales 6/1 20
2005 Arcalis 5-11-07 Graham Lee Howard Johnson Andrea & Graham Wylie 20/1 20
2004 Brave Inca6-11-07 Barry Cash Colm Murphy IRE Novices Syndicate 7/2F 19
2003 Back In Front 6-11-08 Norman Williamson Edward O’Grady IRE Dermot Cox 3/1F 19
2002 Like-A-Butterfly 8-11-03 Charlie Swan Christy Roche IRE J P McManus 7/4F 28
2001 No Race (Foot and Mouth Disease)
2000 Sausalito Bay 6-11-08 Paul Carberry Noel Meade IRE High Street Racing Syndicate 14/1 15
1999 Hors La Loi III 4-11-00 Tony McCoy Martin Pipe Paul Green 9/2 20
1998 French Ballerina 5-11-03 Graham Bradley Pat Flynn IRE Sue Magnier 10/1 30
1997 Shadow Leader 6-11-08 Jamie Osborne Charles Egerton James Blackshaw 5/1 16
1996 Indefence 5-11-08 Warren Marston Jenny Pitman Indef Ltd 25/1 27
1995 Tourist Attraction6-11-03 Mark Dwyer Willie Mullins IRE North Kildare Racing Club 25/1 20
1994 Arctic Kinsman 6-11-08 Carl Llewellyn Nigel Twiston-Davies Rosie Hambro 50/1 18
1993 Montelado 6-11-08 Charlie Swan Pat Flynn IRE Ollie Hannon 5/1 15
1992 Flown 5-11-08 Jamie Osborne Nicky Henderson Edward Winfield 13/2 17
1991 Destriero 5-11-08 Pat McWilliams Andy Geraghty IRE Elizabeth Furlong 6/1 21
1990 Forest Sun 5-11-08 Jimmy Frost Toby Balding Salehurst Paper Co Ltd 7/4F 18
1989 Sondrio 8-11-08 Jonathon Lower Martin Pipe Mrs J M Ryan 25/1 21
1988 Vagador 5-11-08 Mark Perrett Guy Harwood Amanda Harwood 4/1F 26
1987 Tartan Tailor 6-11-08 Phil Tuck Gordon Richards Edinburgh Woollen Mill Ltd 14/1 20
1986 River Ceiriog 5-11-07 Steve Smith Eccles Nicky Henderson Bobby McAlpine 40/1 29
1985 Harry Hastings 6-11-08 Chris Grant John Wilson Robert Leask 14/1 30
1984 Browne’s Gazette 6-11-08 Mr Dermot Browne Michael Dickinson John Poynton 11/2 18
1983 Buck House 5-11-08 Tommy Carmody Mouse Morris IRE Mrs S Purcell 8/1 22
1982 Miller Hill 6-11-08 Tom Morgan Dessie Hughes IRE J Harvey 20/1 19
1981 Hartstown 6-11-08 Niall Madden Mick O'Toole IRE J McGowan 2/1F 16
1980 Slaney Idol 5-11-08 Tommy Carmody Liam Browne IRE Mrs M Hayes 9/1 27
1979 Stranfield 6-11-08 Tommy Kinane Des McDonogh IRE D Devlin 16/1 16
1978 Golden Cygnet 6-11-08 Mr Niall Madden Edward O'Grady IRE Raymond Rooney 4/5F 18
1977 Mac’s Chariot 6-11-08 Dessie Hughes Mick O’Toole IRE Mrs A Jordan 7/1 16
1976 Beacon Light 5-11-08 Andy Turnell Bob Turnell Jim Joel 14/1 11
1975 Bannow Rambler 6-11-08 Frank Berry Padge Berry IRE Mrs K White 9/2 18
1974 Avec Moi 5-11-06 Roger Rowell Auriol Sinclair Lord Blackford 5/4F 16
1973 King Pele 4-10-10 David Nicholson Gavin Pritchard-Gordon J Richardson 13/2 20
1972 Noble Life 5-11-06 Stan Murphy Christy Grassick IRE M Gallagher 16/1 18
1971(I) Persian Majesty 4-10-13 Terry Biddlecombe Ryan Price Ken Wheldon 13/2 10
1971 (II) Barnard 7-12-00 Johnnie Haine Fulke Walwyn Mrs B Heath 4/1 13
1970 (I) Ballywilliam Boy 5-12-00 Bobby Coonan Paddy Sleator IRE P Smyth 4/1 20
1970 (II) Bula 5-12-00 Paul Kelleway Fred Winter Bill Edwards-Heathcote 3/1F 21
1969 (I) Normandy 4-11-02 Terry Biddlecombe Fred Rimell Bryan Jenks 10/1 28
1969 (II) Private Room 5-11-10 Willie Robinson Fulke Walwyn Mrs A L Hoare 10/1 20
1968 (I) King Cutler 5-12-00 Brian Fletcher Denys Smith Joe Lisle 85/40 12
1968 (II) L’Escargot 5-12-04 Tommy Carberry Dan Moore IRE Raymond Guest 13/2 11
1967 (I) Chorus 6-11-12 Johnnie Haine Tom Jones Lord James Crichton-Stuart 15/2 20
1967 (II) Early To Rise 7-11-12 Jeff King Bob Turnell Paul Mellon 11/2 14
1966 (I) Beau Caprice 12-12-02 Tommy Jennings Fulke Walwyn Richard Head 6/1 14
1966 (II) Fosco 5-11-06 David Moore Mick Goswell David Montagu 7/2 19
1965 (I) Red Tears 5-11-06 Stan Mellor Tom Jones Major Victor McCalmont 7/1 19
1965 (II) Havago 6-12-04 Bobby Beasley Paddy Sleator IRE Clifford Nicholson 11/8 15
1964 (I) Flyingbolt 5-12-02 Pat Taaffe Tom Dreaper IRE Mrs Jean Wilkinson 4/9F 11
1964 (II) Elan 5-12-02 Dave Dick John Sutcliffe R Tucker 9/2 18
1963 (I) Honour Bound 5-11-10 Terry Biddlecombe Fred Rimell Katie Gaze 3/1F 18
1963 (II) Buona Notte 6-11-08 Johnnie Haine Bob Turnell Jim Joel 7/2 15
1963 (III) Deetease 5-12-02 Clive Chapman Basil Foster Charles Chandler 9/1 18
1962 (I) Tripacer 4-10-12 Tommy Carberry Dan Moore IRE Lady Honor Svejdar 20/1 18
1962 (II) Clerical Grey 4-11-02 Willie Robinson P Murphy IRE Mrs R A Palfreyman 100/8 18
1961 (I) Beau Normand 5-11-06 Bill Rees Bob Turnell Jim Joel 5/1 18
1961 (II) Greektown 5-12-02 Michael Scudamore Willie Stephenson Lionel Ensten 100/8 15
1960 (I) Blue Mountain 6-11-05 Dick Broadway George Todd Sidney Banks 5/1 20
1960 (II) Bastille 5-10-13 Bill Woods Tom Masson Mrs V Cripps 33/1 18
1959 (I) York Fair 5-11-10 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE John McShain 4/5F 16
1959 (II) Albergo 5-11-06 Doug Page Clem Magnier IRE Mrs Clem Magnier 9/1 19
1958 (I) Admiral Stuart 7-11-12 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE Mrs T V Ryan 6/5F 19
1958 (II) Prudent King 6-11-08 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE Captain R Westmacott 3/1F 19
1957 (I) Tokoroa 6-12-01 Dave Dick Fred Rimell David Deyong 5/4F 10
1957 (II) Saffron Tartan 6-11-12 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE Lady Cottenham 10/11F 12
1956 (I) Boys Hurrah 8-11-08 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE M J Sheehan 9/4F 17
1956 (II) Pelargos 5-11-06 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE Vincent O’Brien 6/4F 22
1955 (I) Vindore 6-11-12 Mr Phonsie O’Brien Vincent O’Brien IRE J A Wood Evs F 19
1955 (II) Illyric 6-11-08 Tommy Burns Vincent O’Brien IRE R Mulrooney 3/1F 23
1954 (I) Stroller 6-11-08 Pat Taaffe Vincent O’Brien IRE Joe Griffin 13/8F 18
1954 (II) Tasmin 4-10-07 Rene Emery Harry Count FR Harry Count 5/1 18
1953 (I) Assynt 5-11-01 Eddie Newman Danny Morgan IRE Lady Ursula Vernon 9/4F 18
1953 (II) Dessin 7-11-08 Johnny Gilbert Frank Hudson H J Barlow 100/9 17
1952 (I) Cockatoo 6-11-03 Mr Phonsie O’Brien Vincent O’Brien IRE Harry Keogh 4/1 13
1952 (II) Evian 4-10-07 Fred Winter George Archibald M S Westwick 10/1 14
1951 (I) Red Stranger 4-10-12 Denis Dillon Ron Smyth L Jarvis 100/8 20
1951 (II) Oukileles II 4-10-12 Fred Winter George Archibald B Campbell 6/1 13
1950 (I) Tsaoko 5-11-08 Martin Molony Sam Armstrong H E Habib I Rahimtoola 4/9F 9
1950 (II) Sir Charles 4-10-04 Mr Michael Scudamore Geoffrey Scudamore S A Mailes 25/1 15
1949 (I) French Wedding 4-10-07 Jimmy Brogan Gerry Wilson E L Gosling 11/2 14
1949 (II) Tough Guy 4-10-00 Denis Dillon Ivor Anthony Jack Olding 4/1 18
1948 (I) Vulgan 5-10-10 Rickie Black John De Moraville H Coriat 9/2 13
1948 (II) Jean’s Last 6-11-00 Bryan Marshall Fulke Walwyn Lady Throckmorton 7/4F 21
1947 No race
1946 (I) Prince Rupert 5-11-03 Ron Smyth Ted Smyth John J Astor 9/2 19
1946 (II) Freetown 6-11-00 George Archibald W Larkin H Rogers 8/1 17
1946 (III) Gremlin 5-10-10 Phil Canty George Todd Desmond Baring 5/1 16
 
SPINAL RESEARCH SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE FACTS AND FIGURES
1. The Supreme Novices’ Hurdle was known as the Gloucestershire Hurdle until 1974. Capel Cure Sharp backed the contest in 2000 and the company, which became Gerrard Wealth Management, supported the race until 2003. Racecourse caterers Letheby & Christopher became the sixth sponsor since the initial backer Lloyds Bank in 1974 when supporting the contest in 2004 and 2005, while Anglo Irish Bank was the sponsor from 2006 to 2008. Bookmakers William Hill sponsored the race in 2009 and this year the backers are the Stewart Family, on behalf of the charity Spinal Research.
2. The Spinal Research Supreme Novices’ Hurdle is the only race at The Festival to have been divided. From 1946-1971 when known as the Gloucestershire Novices’ Hurdle, it divided on no less than 25 occasions. In 1963 and 1946 there were even three divisions.
3. The oldest horse to have won was 12-year-old Beau Caprice in 1966 (Div One). Three eight-year-olds have also been successful - Like-A-Butterfly in 2002, Sondrio in 1989 and Boys Hurrah in 1956 (Div One).
4. The 1993 winner, Montelado, holds a unique position in the history of The Festival at Cheltenham. He is the only horse to have won consecutive Festival races, landing the Weatherbys Champion Bumper in 1992, the last race of that year’s meeting, and returning to win the Spinal Research Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 1993, the first race 12 months later.
5. The Spinal Research Supreme Novices’ Hurdle has thrown up one winner of the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup and three Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle heroes. L'Escargot won in 1968, before consecutive Gold Cup triumphs in 1970 and 1971. Bula scored in 1970, before Champion Hurdle victories in 1971 and 1972, the 2002 Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle winner Hors La Loi III took the race in 1999, and Brave Inca took the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle in 2006 having landed the novice event two years earlier.
6. The race has been won by Irish-trained raiders on no less than 38 occasions, and by the French once. Of the 16 divisions from 1952-59, Vincent O'Brien won an amazing 10. Ireland also kept a stranglehold on the race for seven years from 1977-83 and has won seven of the last nine runnings, most recently with Go Native in 2009.
7. The smallest field was in 1950, with nine runners in Division 1, and the largest, 30 runners, for both Harry Hastings' win in 1985 and French Ballerina’s success in 1998. The maximum field allowed is now 24.
8. Since the race ceased to be divided, big-name jockeys have found the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle difficult to win. Tony McCoy, successful on Hors La Loi III in 1999, is the only one of the last four champion jockeys to have scored in this particular contest, and only Charlie Swan (1993 and 2002), Tommy Carmody (1980 and 1983) and Niall Madden (1978 and 1981) have been successful twice.
9. The longest-priced winner was Arctic Kinsman at 50/1 in 1994, while the 2007 victor Ebaziyan is one of only two 40/1 shots to have scored. The shortest-priced winners at 4/9 were Tsaoko in 1950 and Flyingbolt in 1964. Favourites have been successful eight times in the 37 runnings since 1972, with three of the last eight winning.
10. The fastest time for the winning horse was achieved by Montelado in 1993 at 3m 50.6s. French Ballerina came close to that record in 1998 when her time was 3m 50.9s.

SPINAL RESEARCH SUPREME NOVICES' HURDLE – ANALYSIS
Irish-trained horses have carried off seven of the nine renewals of the Spinal Research Supreme Novices’ Hurdle since 2000 (no race in 2001) and the Philip Fenton trained Dunguib heads 36 Irish-based horses among the 104 entries for the extended two-mile contest.The seven-year-old, winner of the Grade One Weatherbys Champion Bumper at The Festival in 2009, is unbeaten in three starts over hurdles. Most recently, he cruised to a seven-length triumph over the Tom Mullins-trained Some Present in the Grade One Royal Bond Hurdle at Fairyhouse in December. Mullins has also entered the unbeaten Dr Whizz.
The Dermot Weld-trained Rite Of Passage was third in the Weatherbys Champion Bumper last term and won on his hurdling debut at Leopardstown in January. Willie Mullins has entered nine potential contenders. Blackstairmountain easily opened his account at the first attempt at Punchestown on January 31, while others include dual bumper winners Flat Out, Paul Kristian and Don’t Turn Bach, the smart two-time hurdle winner Morning Supreme, Grade One paddypowerpoker.com Future Champion Novices’ Hurdle third Fionnegas and Rhyl Accord, who was runner-up to Shinrock Paddy in a Navan Grade One in December.
The Noel Meade-trained Hollo Ladies was too good for Fionnegas in the aforementioned Grade One but was only fourth to the John Hanlon-trained Luska Lad in the Grade Two Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle at Punchestown last month. Meade, successful with Go Native (2009) and Sausalito Bay (2000) has six entries in total, including Navan winner Thegreatjohnbrowne.
The Henry de Bromhead-trained Loosen My Load won the Grade Two Sharp Novices’ Hurdle over the course and distance at The Open in November.
Looking at the home defence, Nicky Henderson, twice successful with River Ceiriog (1986) and Flown (1992), has seven entries, including the unbeaten Oscar Whisky, Bellvano and General Miller, who landed a hat-trick when defeating the Paul Nicholls trainedGhizao over the course and distance in December but was no match for RestlessHarry in an extended two and a half-mile Grade Two at Cheltenham on January 30.
Paul Nicholls, successful with Noland in 2006, has engaged eight of his string in all, including Grade One Christmas Hurdle fifth Pepe Simo and the classy four-year-olds Pistolet Noir , Sang Bleu, Royal Mix and Advisor.
Salden Licht is two from two over hurdles for trainer Alan King, who also hasGrade Two Winter Novices’ Hurdle victor Manyriverstocross and Taunton winner Whistlejacquet among five entries.The Philip Hobbs-trained Menorah was impressive when slamming Bellvano at Kempton in December, while the Donald McCain-trained Peddlers Cross is unbeaten in four starts and most recently stormed to victory in a Grade Two contest at Haydock.
Another entry with a perfect record of four wins is the Jonjo O’Neill-trained Get Me Out Of Here, while David Pipe has engaged dual bumper winner Dan Breen, DreamEsteem and the four-year-old Notus De La Tour.
Vino Griego, third behind Manyriverstocross at Sandown in December, easilylanded the spoils at Wincanton in January for trainer Gary Moore, while Emma Lavelle and Ian Williams have engaged Southwell novices’ hurdle victors Tocca Ferro and Gifted Leader, respectively. Others of note include Henry King, Frascati Park, On Borrowed Wings,Washington Irving, Inventor and Hollins.
 
NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE PREVIOUS RESULTS

2009-1ST-MIKAEL D’HAGUENET 5-11-07 O-Susannah Ricci; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 5/2 Fav
2ND-Karabak 6-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Alan King; J-Tony McCoy; 4/1
3RD-Diamond Harry 6-11-07 O-Paul Duffy Diamond Syndicate; T-Nick Williams; J-Timmy Murphy; 4/1
14 ran, Time-5m 17.10s Dist-1¾, 3¾
2008-1ST-FIVEFORTHREE 6-11-07 O-Olde Crowbars Synd; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 7/1
2ND-Venalmar 6-11-07 O-Michael O’Flynn; T-Mouse Morris ; J-Paddy Flood; 11/1
3RD-Trafford Lad 6-11-07 O-Butler Family Syndicate; T-Eamon Sheehy ; J-Tom Doyle; 9/1
15 ran, Time-5m 2.20s Dist-nk, 4; 4/1 Fav Aigle D’Or (13th)
2007-1ST-MASSINI’S MAGUIRE 6-11-07 O-Alan Peterson; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 20/1
2ND-Tidal Bay 6-11-07 O-Andrea & Graham Wylie; T-Howard Johnson; J-Paddy Brennan; 10/1
3RD-Catch Me 6-11-07 O-J P O’Shea; T-Edward O’Grady ; J-Barry Geraghty; 7/1
15 ran, Time-5m 5.40s; Dist: nk, 1½; 5/2 Fav Aran Concerto (5th)
2006-1ST-NICANOR 5-11-07 O-Des Sharkey; T-Noel Meade ; J-Paul Carberry; 17/2
2ND-Denman 6-11-07 O-Paul Barber & Maggie Findlay; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Ruby Walsh; 11/10 Fav
3RD-Refinement 7-11-00 O-Michael Tabor; T-Jonjo O’Neill; J-Tony McCoy; 11/2
17 ran, Time-5m 1.00s Dist: 2½, 6
2005-1ST-NO REFUGE 5-11-07 O-Andrea & Graham Wylie; T-Howard Johnson; J-Graham Lee; 17/2
2ND-Racing Demon 5-11-07 O-Camilla Radford; T-Henrietta Knight; J-Jim Culloty; 14/1
3RD-Our Ben 6-11-07 O-Trevor Hemmings; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 33/1
20 ran, Time-5m 00.00s Dist: ¾, 2½ 9/2 Jt Favs Gold Medalist (5th) & Royal Paradise (7th)
2004-1ST-FUNDAMENTALIST 6-11-07 O-Gripen; T-Nigel Twiston-Davies; J-Carl Llewellyn; 12/1
2ND-Inglis Drever 5-11-07 O-Andrea & Graham Wylie; T-Howard Johnson; J-Graham Lee; 7/4 Fav
3RD-Grey Report 7-11-07 O-Anne La Trobe; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; SP-25/1
15 ran, Time-5m 1.90s, Dist-.5, 4
2003-1ST-HARDY EUSTACE 5-11-07 O-Laurence Byrne; T-Dessie Hughes ; J-Kieran Kelly; 6/1
2ND-Pizarro 6-11-07 O-Edward Wallace; T-Edward O’Grady ; J-Norman Williamson; 2/1 Fav
3RD-Lord Sam 7-11-07 Owner-Plain Peeps; T-Victor Dartnall; J-Warren Marston; 10/1
Coolnagorna, finished 2nd, placed last for causing interference 19 ran, Time-5m 5.70s, Dist -1¼, 1
2002-1ST-GALILEO 6-11-07 O-Nelson/Stennett/Warner; T-Tom George; J-Jason Maguire; 12/1
2ND-Over The Bar 6-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Edward O’Grady ; J-Norman Williamson; 14/1
3RD-Lanzerac 5-11-07 O-Cleartherm Ltd; T-John Harris; J-Paul Flynn; 66/1
27 ran; Time-5m 19.70s, Dist-3½, sh; 5/1 Fav Classified (4th)
2001-Cancelled (Foot and Mouth Disease)
2000-1ST-MONSIGNOR 6-11-07 O-Malcolm Denmark; T-Mark Pitman; J-Norman Williamson; 5/4 Fav
2ND-No Discount 6-11-06 O-Seamus Ross; T-Charlie Swan ; J-Charlie Swan; 20/1
3RD-Gentle Rivage 6-11-07 O-Geoffrey and Donna Keeys; T-Nigel Twiston-Davies; 50/1
14 ran, Time-4m 52.0s, Dist-8,5
1999-1ST-BARTON 6-11-07 O-Stan Clarke; T-Tim Easterby; J-Lorcan Wyer, 2/1 Fav
2ND-Artadoin Lad 6-11-07 O-Jim Shaw; T-Jenny Pitman; J-Mick Fitzgerald; 28/1
3RD-Winston Run 7-11-07 O-Mr & Mrs John Poynton; T-Ian Williams; J-Glenn Tormey; 100/1
18 ran, Time-5m 5.6s, Dist-9, ½
1998-1ST-FRENCH HOLLY 7-11-07 O-Kieran Flood; T-Ferdy Murphy; J-Andrew Thornton; 2/1 Fav
2ND-Torboy 8-11-07 O-Paul Green; T-Martin Pipe; J-Tony McCoy; 8/1
3RD-Cloone Bridge 6-11-07 O-Kathleen Gillane; T-Aidan O’Brien ; J-Charlie Swan; 8/1
18 ran, Time-4m 59.7s, Dist-14, 2½
1997-1ST-ISTABRAQ 5-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Aidan O’Brien ; J-Charlie Swan; 6/5 Fav
2ND-Mighty Moss 6-11-07 O-Ken Hutsby; T-David Nicholson; J-Mr Fred Hutsby; 11/1
3RD-Daraydan 5-11-07 O-David Johnson; T-Martin Pipe; J-Richard Hughes; 16/1
17 ran, Time-4m 58.2s, Dist-1, ¾

NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE ROLL OF HONOUR
(Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle 2009, Ballymore Properties Novices’ Hurdle 2007-2008, Royal & SunAlliance Novices’ Hurdle 1998- 2006, Royal Sun Alliance Novices’ Hurdle 1997, Sun Alliance Novices’ Hurdle 1974-96, Aldsworth Hurdle 1971-73)

2009 Mikael D’Haguenet 5-11-07 Ruby Walsh Willie Mullins IRE Susannah Ricci 5/2F 14
2008 Fiveforthree 6-11-07 Ruby Walsh Willie Mullins IRE Olde Crowbars Syndicate 7/1 15
2007 Massini’s Maguire 6-11-07 Richard Johnson Philip Hobbs Alan Peterson 20/1 15
2006 Nicanor 5-11-07 Paul Carberry Noel Meade IRE Des Sharkey 17/2 17
2005 No Refuge 5-11-07 Graham Lee Howard Johnson Andrea & Graham Wylie 17/2 20
2004 Fundamentalist 6-11-07 Carl Llewellyn Nigel Twiston-Davies Gripen 12/1 15
2003 Hardy Eustace 6-11-07 Kieran Kelly Dessie Hughes IRE Laurence Byrne 6/1 19
2002 Galileo 6-11-07 Jason Maguire Tom George Sharon Nelson, Allan Stennett, Terry Warner 12/1 27
2001 No Race (Foot and Mouth)
2000 Monsignor 6-11-07 Norman Williamson Mark Pitman Malcolm Denmark 5/4F 14
1999 Barton 6-11-07 Lorcan Wyer Tim Easterby Stan Clarke 2/1F 18
1998 French Holly 7-11-07 Andrew Thornton Ferdy Murphy Kieran Flood 2/1F 18
1997 Istabraq 5-11-07 Charlie Swan Aidan O’Brien IRE J P McManus 6/5F 17
1996 Urubande 6-11-07 Charlie Swan Aidan O’Brien IRE Martin St Quinton 8/1 24
1995 Putty Road 5-11-07 Norman Williamson David Nicholson Lady Harris 7/1 21
1994 Danoli 6-11-07 Charlie Swan Tom Foley IRE Dan O’Neill 7/4F 23
1993 Gaelstrom 6-11-02 Carl Llewellyn Nigel Twiston-Davies Jenny Powell 16/1 19
1992 Thetford Forest 5-11-07 Richard Dunwoody David Nicholson Saeed Manana 7/1 27
1991 Crystal Spirit 4-10-12 Jimmy Frost Ian Balding Paul Mellon 2/1F 29
1990 Regal Ambition 6-11-07 Peter Scudamore Martin Pipe Skeltools Ltd 3/1F 22
1989 Sayfar’s Lad 5-11-07 Mark Perrett Martin Pipe Arthur Whiting 12/1 22
1988 Rebel Song 6-11-07 Simon Sherwood Oliver Sherwood Maggie Heath 14/1 25
1987 The West Awake 6-11-07 Simon Sherwood Oliver Sherwood Maggie Heath 16/1 28
1986 Ten Plus 6-11-07 Kevin Mooney Fulke Walwyn Basil Thwaites 5/2F 28
1985 Asir 5-11-07 Mr Ronnie Beggan Paul Kelleway HH Prince Yazid Saud 9/1 27
1984 Fealty 4-10-12 Seamus O’Neill Peter Brookshaw Peter Brookshaw 33/1 29
1983 Sabin Du Loir 4-10-08 Graham Bradley Michael Dickinson Brian Kilpatrick 16/1 27
1982 Mister Donovan 6-11-08 Tommy Ryan Edward O’Grady IRE J P McManus 9/2 21
1981 Gaye Chance 6-11-08 Sam Morshead Fred Rimell Mrs M Curtis 7/1 21
1980 Drumlargan 6-11-08 Tommy Ryan Edward O’Grady IRE Mary Cuddy 5/2F 27
1979 Venture To Cognac 6-11-08 Mr Oliver Sherwood Fred Winter Nat Sherwood 4/1 29
1978 Mr Kildare 5-11-07 Tommy Carmody Liam Browne IRE Owen Canty 8/11F 20
1977 Counsel Cottage 6-11-08 Sean Treacy Paddy Mullins IRE Lady Elizabeth Byng 6/1 26
1976 Parkhill 5-11-07 Dessie Hughes Mick O’Toole IRE Mrs J McGowan 4/1 21
1975 Davy Lad 5-11-07 Dessie Hughes Mick O’Toole IRE Mrs J McGowan 5/2F 20
1974 Brown Lad 8-11-08 Ron Barry Paddy Osborne IRE J Osborne 2/1F 25
1973 Willie Wumpkins 5-11-06 Pat Colville Adrian Maxwell IRE Jane Pilkington 11/1 15
1972 Even Dawn 5-11-06 Ron Hyett Katie Gaze Katie Gaze 40/1 17
1971 Midsprite 5-11-12 Macer Gifford Tom Jones Mrs Ogden Phipps 7/1 20
 
NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE - FACTS AND FIGURES
1. The Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle was introduced to The Festival in 1971 as the Aldsworth Hurdle. Sun Alliance, who merged with Royal Insurance in 1996, took it on in 1974, together with the Sun Alliance Chase, having previously sponsored the Foxhunter Chase. Ballymore Properties sponsored the contest between 2007 and 2009, while Neptune Investment Management will sponsor the race for the first time in 2010.
2. The Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle, along with the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle and the RSA Chase, are acknowledged as championship races for the staying novice hurdler and chaser.
3. Only one horse has won both the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle and the RSA Chase. The West Awake took the hurdle race in 1987 and the chase event a year later.
4. The smallest field for the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle was 14 in both 2009 and 2000. There have been 15 runners on four occasions - 1973, 2004, 2007 and 2008. The largest field was 29, achieved in 1979, 1984 and 1991. The current safety limit is 24.
5. The Irish-trained 1994 winner, Danoli, was the subject of a massive gamble and was sent off the 7/4 favourite. The shortest-priced winner was another Irish victor, Mr Kildare, at 8/11 in 1978.
Favourites have been successful in 13 of the 37 runnings. The longest-priced winner was 40/1 chance Even Dawn in the second running in 1972.
6. The Irish have an excellent record in the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle with 15 wins, including six consecutive victories from 1973-78.
7. Having sent out the winner in 2008 and 2009, Willie Mullins became the seventh trainer to win two Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdles, joining Aidan O’Brien, Martin Pipe, Oliver Sherwood, Mick O'Toole, Edward O'Grady and Nigel Twiston-Davies. Oliver Sherwood and Dessie Hughes are the two trainers to have also won the race as jockeys. Sherwood was in the saddle on Venture To Cognac in 1979, while his training wins were with The West Awake (1987) and Rebel Song (1988). Dessie Hughes was twice successful as a jockey with Davy Lad (1975) and Parkhill (1976) and sent out Hardy Eustace (2003) to victory as a trainer.
8. The fastest time for the winning horse was 4m 52.0s set by Monsignor in 2000, beating the 4m 56.2s of Regal Ambition in 1990.
9. Istabraq (1997) and Hardy Eustace (2003) both won this race en route to victory in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle, while Davy Lad (1975) went on to take the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup.

NEPTUNE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NOVICES’ HURDLE - ANALYSIS
The Grade One contest staged over two miles and five furlongs has attracted 112 entries, with 37 of those trained in Ireland. The Dermot Weld-trained Rite Of Passage was third in last season’s Grade One Weatherbys Champion Bumper and won a maiden hurdle at Leopardstown in January.
Willie Mullins saddled Mikael D’Haguenet (2009) and Fiveforthree (2008) to win the last two runnings and he has engaged Grade Three winners Quel Esprit and Enterprise Park among 13 entries that also include Morning Supreme and the Grade One-placed pair of Fionnegas and Rhyl Accord. Paul Nolan has entered Shinrock Paddy, who defeated Rhyl Accord to win a Navan Grade One on December 13.
The Jessica Harrington-trained Coole River defeated Quel Esprit to land a two and half-mile Leopardstown Grade Two hurdle in January, while the John Hanlon-trained Luska Lad won the Grade Two Moscow Flyer Hurdle at Punchestown, a race in which the Noel Meade-trained Grade One paddypowerpoker.com Future Champion Novices’ Hurdle victor Hollo Ladies was fourth, one place behind the Charlie Swan-trained Start Me Up. Loosen My Load won the Grade Two Sharp Novices’ Hurdle at The Open in November for trainer Henry de Bromhead, while Tom Mullins has engaged the unbeaten Dr Whizz.
Edward O’Grady saddled Drumlargan (1980) and Mister Donovan (1982) to victory and the Irish handler has entered Acapulco, a classy performer on the Flat when with Aidan O’Brien and winner of a maiden hurdle at Navan on January 27.
The Nick Williams-trained Reve De Sivola landed the Grade One Challow Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury in January from the Robin Dickin-trained Restless Harry, who franked the form with a fine victory over General Miller in the Grade Two Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham on Festival Trials Day.
Nicky Henderson has a powerful hand with 10 entries. Among them, Quantitativeasing is unbeaten in three starts, General Miller won at the course in December, Kerada and Master Of The Hall have won their last two starts and Finian’s Rainbow was third in the Challow Hurdle.
Peddlers Cross landed the Grade Two Rossington Main Hurdle at Haydock in January for trainer Donald McCain, while the Howard Johnson-trained The Knoxs has won both his starts at Newcastle and the Karen McLintock-trained Bygones Of Brid saw off Washington Irving at that same venue.
The Tom George-trained Tell Massini defeated Reve De Sivola in a Grade Two at The Open and added the Grade Two Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle over three miles back at Cheltenham in December.
Paul Nicholls has entered Grade Two Prestbury Juvenile Hurdle victor Pistolet Noir, easy Taunton winner Ghizao and classy French import Najaf among five entries.
Alan King has seven entries including Grade Two Winter Novices’ Hurdle winner Manyriverstocross, dual winner Stoney’s Treasure and recent Taunton victor Whistlejacquet.
Chartreux easily landed a Fos Los maiden hurdle for trainer David Pipe on January 28, to go with previous wins in a bumper and a point-to-point, while the same trainer’s Sure Josie Sure has won both of her completed starts over hurdles.
 
JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE - PREVIOUS RESULTS
2009-1ST-ZAYNAR 4-11-00 O-Men In Our Position; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Barry Geraghty; 11/2
2ND-Walkon 4-11-00 O-McNeill Racing; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 4/1 Fav
3RD-Mourad 4-11-00 O-Teahon Consulting Limited; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 14/1
18 ran, Time-4m 3.90s; Dist-¾, 2¾
2008-1ST-CELESTIAL HALO 4-11-00 O-The Stewart Family; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Ruby Walsh; 5/1
2ND-Franchoek 4-11-00 O-J P McManus; T-Alan King; J-Tony McCoy; Evens Fav
3RD-Won In The Dark 4-11-00 O- Gerard Crehan; T-Sabrina Harty ; J-Andrew McNamara; 16/1
14 ran, Time-4m 7.83s; Dist-2¼, 2¼
2007-1ST-KATCHIT 4-11-00 O- DSJP Syndicate; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 11/2
2ND-Liberate 4-11-00 O-Diana Whateley; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 12/1
3RD-Mobaasher 4-11-00 O-Seasons Holidays; T-Charlie Mann; J-Noel Fehily; 33/1
23 ran, Time-3m 54.6s; Dist-9, 1 ¾ 7/2 Fav Lounaos (10th)
2006-1ST-DETROIT CITY 4-11-00 O-Terry Warner; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 7/2 Fav
2ND-Fair Along 4-11-00 O-Alan Peterson; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Paddy Brennan; 25/1
3RD-Blazing Bailey 4-11-00 O-Three Line Whip; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 14/1
17 ran, Time-3m 51.20s; Dist-5, 1
2005-1ST-PENZANCE 4-11-00 O-Elite Racing Club; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 9/1
2ND-Faasel 4-11-00 O-Jim Ennis; T-Nicky Richards; J-Tony Dobbin; 7/1
3RD-Akilak 4-11-00 O-Andrea & Graham Wylie; T-Howard Johnson; J-Graham Lee; 7/2 Fav
23 ran, Time-4m 3.60s; Dist-hd, 8
2004-1ST-MADE IN JAPAN 4-11-00 O-Terry Evans; T-Philip Hobbs; J-Richard Johnson; 20/1
2ND-Chief Yeoman 4-11-00 O-B Moore & E C Stephens; T-Venetia Williams; J-Tony Dobbin; 40/1
3RD-Top Strategy 4-11-00 O-W J Kane; T-Ted Walsh ; J-Ruby Walsh; 33/1
23 ran, Time-4m 5.30s; Dist-2, nk 5/1 Fav Trouble At Bay (10th)
2003-1ST-SPECTROSCOPE 4-11-00 O-Gay Smith; T-Jonjo O’Neill; J-Barry Geraghty; 20/1
2ND-Well Chief 4-11-00 O-David Johnson; T-Martin Pipe; J-Tony McCoy; 7/1
3RD-Golden Cross 4-11-00 O-Mrs H Johnson; T-Mick Halford ; J-Charlie Swan; 11/2 Fav
27 ran, Time-4m 0.30s; Dist-hd, 5
2002-1ST-SCOLARDY 4-11-00 O-David Flynn; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Charlie Swan; 16/1
2ND-Newhall 4-10-09 O-Helen McParland; T-Francis Flood ; J-Fran Flood; 8/1
3RD-Diamond Joshua 4-11-00 O-Diamond Racing Ltd; T-John Berry; J-Jim Culloty; 66/1
28 ran, Time-4m 7.80s; Dist-11, ¾ 7/1 Fav Giocomo (PU)
2001 Cancelled (Foot and Mouth Disease)
2000-1ST-SNOW DROP 4-10-09 O-John Martin; T-Francois Doumen FR; J-Thierry Doumen; 7/1 Fav
2ND-Regal Exit 4-11-00 O-Brian Buckley; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Barry Geraghty; 20/1
3RD-General Cloney 4-11-00 O-John J Brennan; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 20/1
28 ran, Time-3m 52.90s, Dist-2, nk
1999-1ST-KATARINO 4-11-00 O-Robert Waley-Cohen; T-Nicky Henderson; J-Mick Fitzgerald; 11/4 Fav
2ND-Balla Sola 4-11-00 O-Top Cat Syndicate; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Ruby Walsh; 16/1
3RD-Afarad 4-11-00 O-J P McManus; T-Christy Roche ; J-Charlie Swan; 8/1
23 ran, Time-4m 2.4s, Dist-8, 1½
1998-1ST-UPGRADE 4-11-00 O-Archer & Broadhurst; T-Nigel Twiston-Davies; J-Carl Llewellyn; 14/1
2ND-City Hall 4-11-00 O-Rosemary Key & Val Ward; Trainer-Val Ward; J-Robert Thornton; 12/1
3RD-Nomadic 4-11-00 O-Des Sharkey; T-Noel Meade ; J-Richard Dunwoody; 14/1
25 ran, Time-3m 57.1s, Dist-1¼ , 1¾ 10/3 Fav Zafarabad (4th)
1997-1ST-COMMANCHE COURT 4-11-00 O-Dermot Desmond; T-Ted Walsh ; J-Norman Williamson; 9/1
2ND-Circus Star 4-11-00 O-The Ringmasters; T-David Nicholson; J-Richard Johnson; 40/1
3RD-Shooting Light 4-11-00 O-John Brown; T-Pat Murphy; J-Richard Dunwoody; 7/1
28 ran, Time-4m 0.2s, Dist-1, 1¼ 9/2 Fav White Sea (9th)
1996-1ST-PADDY’S RETURN 4-11-00 O-Paddy O’Donnell; T-Ferdy Murphy; J-Richard Dunwoody; 10/1
2ND-Mistinguett 4-10-09 O-John Duggan; T-Nigel Twiston-Davies; J-Carl Llewellyn; 14/1
3RD-Hatta Breeze 4-10-09 O-Jenny Mould; T-David Nicholson; J-Richard Johnson; 14/1
29 ran, Time-4m 1.4s, Dist originally 4, hd, 1¾ Magical Lady (2nd) disqualified 6/1 Fav Debutante Days (f)

JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE ROLL OF HONOUR
(JCB Triumph Hurdle since 2002, Elite Racing Club Triumph Hurdle from 1997-2000, Daily Express Triumph Hurdle 1965-1996, previously run at Hurst Park. Held at Cheltenham’s April meeting from 1965-67)

2009 Zaynar 4-11-00 Barry Geraghty Nicky Henderson Men In Our Position 11/2 18
2008 Celestial Halo 4-11-00 Ruby Walsh Paul Nicholls The Stewart Family 5/1 14
2007 Katchit 4-11-00 Robert Thornton Alan King DSJP Syndicate 11/2 23
2006 Detroit City 4-11-00 Richard Johnson Philip Hobbs Terry Warner 7/2F 17
2005 Penzance 4-11-00 Robert Thornton Alan King Elite Racing Club 9/1 23
2004 Made In Japan 4-11-00 Richard Johnson Philip Hobbs Terry Evans 20/1 23
2003 Spectroscope 4-11-00 Barry Geraghty Jonjo O’Neill Gay Smith 20/1 27
2002 Scolardy 4-11-00 Charlie Swan Willie Mullins IRE David Flynn 16/1 28
2001 No Race (Foot and Mouth)
2000 Snow Drop 4-10-09 Thierry Doumen Francois Doumen FR John Martin 7/1F 28
1999 Katarino 4-11-00 Mick Fitzgerald Nicky Henderson Robert Waley-Cohen 11/4F 23
1998 Upgrade 4-11-00 Carl Llewellyn Nigel Twiston-Davies Matt Archer & Jean Broadhurst 14/1 25
1997 Commanche Court 4-11-00 Norman Williamson Ted Walsh IRE Dermot Desmond 9/1 28
1996 Paddy’s Return 4-11-00 Richard Dunwoody Ferdy Murphy Paddy O’Donnell 10/1 29
1995 Kissair 4-11-00 Jonathon Lower Martin Pipe Terry Benson 16/1 26
1994 Mysilv 4-10-09 Adrian Maguire David Nicholson Million In Mind Partnership (3) 2/1F 28
1993 Shawiya 4-10-09 Charlie Swan Michael O'Brien IRE Miss G Maher 12/1 25
1992 Duke Of Monmouth4-11-00 Mark Richards Simon Sherwood Ali Saeed 33/1 30
1991 Oh So Risky 4-11-00 Paul Holley David Elsworth Oh So Risky Syndicate 14/1 27
1990 Rare Holiday 4-11-00 Brendan Sheridan Dermot Weld IRE Dr Michael Smurfit 25/1 30
1989 Ikdam 4-11-00 Nigel Coleman Richard Holder LBI Law (873) Ltd 66/1 27
1988 Kribensis 4-11-00 Richard Dunwoody Michael Stoute Sheikh Mohammed 6/1 26
1987 Alone Success 4-11-00 Steve Smith Eccles Nicky Henderson Sheikh Amin Dahlawi 11/1 29
1986 Solar Cloud 4-11-00 Peter Scudamore David Nicholson Ann McEwen 40/1 28
1985 First Bout 4-11-00 Steve Smith Eccles Nicky Henderson Fahad Al Athel 5/1 27
1984 Northern Game 4-11-00 Tommy Ryan Edward O'Grady IRE Frank Conroy 20/1 30
1983 Saxon Farm 4-11-00 Mark Perrett Stan Mellor A Birchall 12/1 30
1982 Shiny Copper 4-11-00 Allen Webb Dina Smith Doug Tyler 66/1 29
1981 Baron Blakeney 4-11-00 Paul Leach Martin Pipe Wheatley Leisure Ltd 66/1 29
1980 Heighlin 4-11-00 Steve Jobar David Elsworth Woodside Engineers Ltd 40/1 26
1979 Pollardstown 4-11-00 Philip Blacker Stan Mellor Georgina Tulloch 12/1 28
1978 Connaught Ranger 4-11-00 John Burke Fred Rimell Jim McCaughey 25/1 14
1977 Meladon 4-11-00 Tommy Carberry Adrian Maxwell IRE Mrs N Flynn 6/1 30
1976 Peterhof 4-11-00 Jonjo O'Neill Mick Easterby H Gould 10/1 23
1975 Royal Epic 4-11-00 Fred McKenna Vernon Cross Robert Read 20/1 28
1974 Attivo 4-11-00 Robert Hughes Cyril Mitchell Peter O'Sullevan 4/5F 21
1973 Moonlight Bay 4-11-00 Johnnie Haine Ryan Price Meg Mullion 85/40F 18
1972 Zarib 4-11-00 Bill Smith Fred Rimell Mrs A Hornby 16/1 16
1971 Boxer 4-11-03 Jimmy Uttley Ron Smyth Lord Blakenham 100/30JF 18
1970 Varma 4-11-04 Brian Barker Mick Masson Charles Clore 100/7 31
1969 Coral Diver 4-11-04 Terry Biddlecombe Fred Rimell Bryan Jenks 3/1F 26
1968 England’s Glory 4-11-00 Jimmy Uttley Staff Ingham Mrs M Sherman 9/2 16
1967 Persian War 4-11-08 Jimmy Uttley Brian Swift Henry Alper 4/1 13
1966 Black Ice 4-11-04 Bobby Beasley Arthur Thomas A Crowther 9/2 11
1965 Blarney Beacon 4-11-04 Geordie Ramshaw Ron Smyth Freddie Laker 8/1 7
 
JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE FACTS AND FIGURES

1. The JCB Triumph Hurdle was formerly run at Hurst Park and transferred to Cheltenham in 1965 on the closure of the London course.
2. JCB, which supports the contest for the ninth time this year, is only the race’s third sponsor. The Elite Racing Club was due to back the race for a fifth time in 2001 when The Festival was cancelled, while the Daily Express sponsored from 1965 to 1996. The race was originally run at the April Meeting but was transferred to The Festival in 1968.
3. The JCB Triumph Hurdle has been one of the most competitive races of The Festival. The 2008 field of 14 was by far the smallest since Connaught Ranger beat 13 rivals in 1978 - the recent introduction of the Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle has meant that the JCB Triumph Hurdle now attracts only the very best four-year-olds. The race regularly reached the safety factor, reduced from 28 to 24 in 2004. In fact, the 14 runners in Connaught Ranger's year probably had more to do with the transfer of the race to April following the abandonment of racing on Gold Cup day than any loss of its competitive nature. The smallest field was for its first running at Cheltenham in 1965, when seven runners took part. The largest field was 31 in 1970.
4. Since the race has been at Cheltenham, there has only once been an odds-on winner of the Triumph Hurdle. This was Attivo, owned by former BBC TV commentator Sir Peter O'Sullevan, in 1973 at 4/5. The longest-priced winners were Baron Blakeney, Shiny Copper and Ikdam at 66/1 in 1981, 1982 and 1989.
5. Three horses have gone on from winning the JCB Triumph Hurdle to victory in the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle. Persian War won the Triumph in 1967, and reeled off three Champion Hurdles from 1968-70, Kribensis won the Triumph in 1988 and the Champion Hurdle in 1990, while in 2008 Katchit added a Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle victory to his success in the 2007 JCB Triumph Hurdle.
6. The JCB Triumph Hurdle has a good record for home-trained winners. French-trained raiders won it on four consecutive occasions at Hurst Park from 1950-53, again in 1955 and with Snow Drop in 2000. There have only been six Irish successes (1977,1984,1990, 1993, 1997 and 2002). Nicky Henderson is the winning-most trainer, having triumphed with First Bout (1985), Alone Success (1987), Katarino (1999) and Zaynar (2009).
7. Among jockeys, Jimmy Uttley was successful three times. Fred Winter, Steve Smith Eccles and Richard Dunwoody had two winners as have current riders Richard Johnson, Robert Thornton and Barry Geraghty, but perhaps the most interesting name is that of Lester Piggott, who won the race on King Charlemagne when run at Hurst Park in 1954.
8. The fastest time for the winning horse is 3m 51.20s, recorded in 2006 by Detroit City. The previous best was 3m 52.90s, set by Snow Drop in 2000.
9. It has a justifiable reputation for being one of the more unpredictable contests at The Festival - there have been three 66/1 winners and only eight successful favourites since 1965.
10. Three fillies have been successful; Snow Drop in 2000, Mysilv in 1994 and Shawiya in 1993.

JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE - ANALYSIS

The four-year-old hurdling championship, staged over two miles and a furlong, is always a thrilling spectacle and has attracted 77 entries, headed by the Alan King-trained Mille Chief. King has twice tasted victory in the Grade One contest with Penzance (2005) and subsequent Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle hero Katchit (2007), while Franchoek (2008) and Walkon (2009) both finished second for the trainer. Mille Chief has won his last two starts in fine style, seeing off the Charles Egerton trained Westlin’ Winds at Kempton in December and then easily landing the spoils at Huntingdon last month. King’s quartet of entries also includes Peter Grimes.
Nicky Henderson has four JCB Triumph Hurdle wins to his name, including last year when Zaynar scored. He has seven horses engaged, all of whom are yet to jump a hurdle in public, including According, a smart Flat recruit from France.
Advisor followed an easy win at Newbury in December with a defeat of the Warren Greatrex-trained Barwell Bridge and the gelding, owned by the Royal Ascot Racing Club, is one of seven Paul Nicholls-trained entries. The British champion trainer’s entry also includes Sang Bleu, Royal Mix and Pistolet Noir, a big money purchase out of Nick Williams’ yard after defeating Barizan in the Grade Two Prestbury Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle at The Open. Pistolet Noir was subsequently runner-up to the Nigel Twiston-Davies-trained Baccalaureate in the Grade Two Betfair Finesse Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle over the course and distance on Festival Trials Day. Royal Mix defeated the Nick Williams-trained Me Voici at Newbury in November but the latter slammed Sang Bleu to win the Grade One Coral Future Champions Finale Hurdle at Chepstow the following month.
David Pipe has entered Notus De La Tour and Hunterview, while John Quinn has engaged Doncaster winner Blue Nymph, Tom George could run Olofi, successful over the course and distance in December and Brian Ellison has entered the smart Bothy.
The Howard Johnson-trained Ascendant was an easy winner at Musselburgh on his hurdles bow, while the Gary Moore-trained Orzare saw off Hunterview at Newbury in December and the James Ewart-trained Premier Grand Cru won over hurdles at Pau that same month.
The last Irish-trained winner of the JCB Triumph Hurdle was the Willie Mullins-trained Scolardy (2002). Of the 21 Irish entries, Mullins has the easy Gowran winner Secant Star, Final Approach and Doctor Deejay, who was runner-up to the Charles Byrnes-trained Pittoni in a Punchestown Grade Three last month.
The Gordon Elliott-trained Carlito Brigante landed a Leopardstown Grade Two in December from the Edward O’Grady-trained Alaivan, with the Noel Meade-trained Cross Appeal in fourth. O’Grady won the JCB Triumph Hurdle in 1984 with Northern Game.
Henry de Bromhead has entered the smart Flat recruit Gallilei, while Point Of Light, a prolific winner on the level, is one of two Paul Nolan-trained entries alongside Thurles victor Politeo.
Shanrod won his only hurdles start at Navan in November for Mick Halford, while Sounds Of Jupiter scored at Limerick in January for the Byrnes stable.
 
ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE - PREVIOUS WINNERS

2009-1ST-WEAPON’S AMNESTY 6-11-07 O-Gigginstown House; T- Charles Byrnes ; J-Davy Russell; 8/1
2ND-Pride Of Dulcote 6-11-07 O-Angela Yeoman; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Ruby Walsh; 3/1 Fav
3RD-The Midnight Club 8-11-07 O-C C R Racing Syndicate; T-Willie Mullins ; J-Emmet Mullins; 14/1
17 ran, Time-5m 59.90s; Dist-½, 2
2008-1ST-NENUPHAR COLLONGES 7-11-07 O-Top Brass Ptnrs; T-Alan King; J-Robert Thornton; 9/1
2ND-Liskennett 5-11-00 O- Patrick Pierce; T-Charles Byrnes ; J-Niall Madden; 16/1
3RD-The Tother One 7-11-07 O-Graham Roach; T-Paul Nicholls; J-Sam Thomas; 9/2 Jt Fav
18 ran, Time-6m 0.20s; Dist-2¾, ½ 9/2 Jt Fav Carruthers (11th)
2007-1ST-WICHITA LINEMAN 6-11-07 O-J P McManus; T-Jonjo O’Neill; J-Tony McCoy; 11/8 Fav
2ND-Air Force One 5-11-07 O-Brian Walsh (Co Kildare); Trainer-Charlie Mann; J-Noel Fehily; 25/1
3RD-Itsa Legend 8-11-07 O-The We’re A Legend Partnership; T-The We’re A Legend Partnership; 100/1
20 ran Time-5m 43.60s; Dist-12, 6
2006-1ST-BLACK JACK KETCHUM 7-11-07 O-Gay Smith; T-Jonjo O'Neill; J-Tony McCoy; Evens Fav
2ND-Powerstation 6-11-07 O-Fat Frog Syndicate; T-Charles Byrnes ; J-Davy Russell; 9/1
3RD-Travino 7-11-07 O-P Kilroy; T-Mags Mullins ; J-Barry Geraghty 6/1
19 ran Time-5m 38.30s; Dist-9, 3
2005-1ST-MOULIN RICHE 5-11-07 O- J-C Seroul; T- Francois Doumen; J-Robert Thornton; 9/1
2ND-Over The Creek 4-11-00 O-David Johnson; T-Martin Pipe; J-Timmy Murphy; 5/1
3RD-Brewster 8-11-07 O- Mr & Mrs John Poynton; T-Ian Williams; J-Richard Johnson; 9/4 Fav
18 ran. Time-5m 55.80s; Dist-2½, nk

ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES’ HURDLE ROLL OF HONOUR
(Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle 2005-2007)

2009 Weapon’s Amnesty 6-11-07 Davy Russell Charles Byrnes IRE Gigginstown House Stud 8/1 17
2008 Nenuphar Collonges 7-11-07 Robert Thornton Alan King Top Brass Partnership 9/1 18
2007 Wichita Lineman 6-11-07 Tony McCoy Jonjo O’Neill J P McManus 11/8 Fav 20
2006 Black Jack Ketchum 7-11-07 Tony McCoy Jonjo O’Neill Gay Smith Evs Fav 19
2005 Moulin Riche 4-11-00 Robert Thornton Francois Doumen FR J-C Seroul 9/1 18
 
Last edited:
ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES' HURDLE - ANALYSIS

The staying novice hurdle championship is in its sixth year and the three-mile contest has attracted a classy 91-strong entry, 30 of whom are trained in Ireland, while one hails from Australia.
Tom George has a solid candidate for success in Tell Massini. The unbeaten six year-old saw off subsequent Grade One winner Reve De Sivola when winning a Grade Two contest at The Open at Cheltenham in November and defied a penalty to defeat the Keith Goldsworthy-trained Kennel Hill in the Grade Two Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle over the course and distance in December.
Another exciting entry with course form is the Robin Dickin-trained Restless Harry. The six-year-old made all to win the Grade Two Neptune Investment Management Hurdle on January 30 by eight lengths.
Champion trainer Paul Nicholls has engaged four horses. Najaf is a Listed hurdle winner and Grade One placed in his native France, while River D’Or also has a French hurdle win under his belt.
Alan King took this race with Nenuphar Collonges in 2008 and he has entered four of his string, including Fontwell winner Chamirey, while Philip Hobbs has engaged the tough stayer Triggerman and Donald McCain has entered a smart pair in Wymott and Will Be Done, the latter a Grade Two novice chase winner.
Another notable chaser with an entry is the David Pipe-trained Madison Du Berlais, runner-up to Kauto Star in this season’s Grade One King George VI Chase, while Evan Williams has entered Cappa Bleu, victorious in the 2009 Christie’s Foxhunter Chase at The Festival. Henry Daly has entered the John Smith’s Grand National hope Possol.
Pipe’s five-strong entry also includes the unbeaten Chartreux as well as Irish point-to-point winners Ardkilly Rebel and Shinrock Hill; Martin Keighley has engaged the dual Cheltenham winner Wolf Moon, while Queen Poline could represent trainer Lucy Wadham.
The Irish entry is headed by the Paul Nolan-trained Shinrock Paddy who defeated the Willie Mullins-trained Rhyl Accord to win the Grade One Barry & Sandra Kelly Memorial Novice Hurdle at Navan in December.
Mullins has entered 12 horses. Quel Esprit and Enterprise Park have Grade Three successes under their belts, while Fionnegas has a Grade One placing to his name and Beroni is smart over hurdles and fences.
The trainer has also engaged dual bumper winners Flat Out, Paul Kristian and Don’t Turn Bach, as well as Arvika Ligeonniere and Killultagh Queen. Tom Hogan has a classy entry in Premier Victory who has won Grade Three novice hurdles over two miles and three miles this term.
The Edward O’Grady-trained Acapulco is a top Flat recruit and defeated the Eoghan O’Grady-trained The Book Thief at Navan on January 27. Berties Dream, trained by Paul Gilligan, was third to Tell Massini at The Open, while the Mouse Morris-trained The Hurl was third to Shinrock Paddy at Navan and then
scored over three miles at Fairyhouse on January 17.
 
Back
Top