Cheltenham’s Showcase: Future Winners

Hi all,

Today’s main piece revisits Cheltenham’s Showcase Meeting. Alongside this recap, you’ll find several horses who showed promise and are worth following over the coming weeks.

Cheltenham Showcase Meeting: Low Sun Disrupts Racing

Cheltenham's Showcase Meeting on Saturday attracted record crowds and sunny weather. However, the joy was tempered by familiar frustrations as hurdles and fences were omitted due to low sun. This issue has plagued racing at Britain’s premier jumps track in recent seasons.

I wonder if low sunlight truly affects horses' ability to jump. Whether it’s a genuine or imaginary safety issue, it’s frustrating that, despite living in the 21st century, no alternatives have been implemented by the BHA. If I had attended the races, I would certainly seek a refund. This isn’t jumping racing as fans expect.

For punters, factoring in low sun when betting on later races is unreasonable. If you've placed a bet on a race with a set number of obstacles, you should be entitled to a refund if those are altered. It’s straightforward—when the course changes significantly, it impacts the race outcome, especially for bets depending on the challenges of jumps.

I’ve decided to avoid betting on races when low sun could be factor. Perhaps if enough punters pull back, the BHA will be encouraged to find solutions.

Look out for a more detailed post on the low sun problem.

Senior Chief Shines in 3m 1f Handicap Chase

Despite these issues, Cheltenham's Showcase Meeting still offered competitive racing. The standout event was the 3m 1f handicap chase, where Henry de Bromhead's Senior Chief triumphed over stablemate The Short Go. This victory bodes well for Senior Chief's future, with potential plans for the Ultima Handicap Chase in March or even the Grand National.

Short-priced favourite Broadway Boy led for much of the race but faded after being headed two out. Top weight Does He Know performed well in fourth, likely needing the run. Meanwhile, Le Milos showed promise, finishing fifth only folding three out. The well-fancied Some Scope pulled up, raising concerns about his well-being after a previously progressive season. I’m not totally convinced that Cheltenham is his track, but I suspect something else was amiss.

In the Pertemps Network Qualifier, The Wallpark secured a four-timer, demonstrating his suitability for the 3-miles. He’s now qualified for the final in March but will face tougher challenges with his new mark. Zain Nights was also seeking a four-timer and finished third, indicating he still has more to give this season. Supreme Gift ran well on his seasonal return only fading on the run in and should be sharper next time.

In the opening race, Weveallbeencaught responded well to first-time cheekpieces on first start for Christian Williams. Although still searching for a win after seven attempts over fences, success seems imminent. Lord Of Thunder, on his chase debut, was in contention before falling two out in the same race. Provided he’s none the worse for this mishap he can win races in the sphere.

Off-Form Atlanta Brave Can Be Given Another Chance

On Friday, Scarface caught the eye in the two-mile handicap chase, suggesting he’s one to follow over further this season. Trainer Kerry Lee offered no explanation for Atlanta Brave’s disappointing performance in the Amateur Jockeys Handicap Chase. Despite being sent off at 7/1, he ran poorly and pulled up before three out. It was surprising to me, since his best performances have come on softer ground. I suspect there were other factors affecting his run. Nonetheless, he’s not one to give up on just yet and can rebound over fences this winter.

Final Thoughts

No standout tracker horses emerged from Cheltenham's Showcase Meeting, but a few worth noting include Scarface, Atlanta Brave, Weveallbeencaught, Lord Of Thunder, and Le Milos.

As I prepare for surgery on Tuesday, I will take a break from the column. I plan to re-read Jonathan Powell’s book on Desert Orchid during my hospital stay and my iPad will be used for Breeders Cup research. It might sound odd, but thinking about horse racing helps take my mind off things.

If all goes smoothly, I’ll be discharged on Wednesday. I’m aiming to return on Friday, though that might be ambitious. A lot will depend on how I’m feeling and my neck’s flexibility. If I’m unable to do a full column I’ll post my Breeders' Cup preview, which I sent out to Victor Value subscribers on Monday.

Good luck with your Tuesday bets!

John