Storm Bram brought 12 millimeters of rain to Cheltenham from Monday night into Tuesday, leading to soft going all around on the New Course.
Here are five mud-loving horses to watch at the newly-named Christmas Meeting…
Kim Roque – Competing in the Support The Hunt Family Fund December Gold Cup Handicap Chase (1.50) on Saturday
Kim Roque, trained by Joseph O’Brien, has shown strong form on soft ground in France under Daniela Mele’s guidance. Racing in Ronnie Bartlett’s silks, this five-year-old made a promising start to the season in a Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase on the Old Course. Despite a minor mistake at the final fence, ridden by Richie Deegan, Kim Roque displayed impressive travel over the soggy terrain, finishing three lengths behind Kdeux Saint Fray. With room for improvement, Kim Roque is a horse worth considering.
Our Boy Stan – Running in the British EBF “National Hunt” Novices’ Hurdle (12.05) on Friday
Our Boy Stan, a son of Kapgarde, caught attention with a strong performance in a track bumper on New Year’s Day, followed by a convincing victory at Kempton. Under jockey Ben Jones, Our Boy Stan showcased his ability on soft ground by defeating Bobby’s Nelson in his jumps debut at Ffos Las. Notably, he was well ahead of the competition when finishing second to Baron Noir at Uttoxeter, hinting at his potential. Trainer Ben Pauling’s choice of race will be interesting to watch.
King Turgeon – Entering the Turners Handicap Chase (1.50) on Friday
David Pipe’s King Turgeon skipped the Becher Chase to participate at Prestbury Park instead. The grey chaser, winner of the 2024 edition, showed his class by beating Our Power and Chianti Classico. A previous heavy ground winner, King Turgeon, found the Grand Sefton distance too short on his return but now carries a light weight into this race, facing tough competition including Grade One performer L’Homme Presse.
French Emperor – Competing in the Catesby Estates Handicap Hurdle (1.15) on Friday
French Emperor, under Nicky Martin’s guidance, maintained a perfect record for the new season with a strong uphill finish at Cheltenham. The five-year-old, ridden by James Bowen with Sean Bowen booked for the upcoming race, showcased determination in overcoming rivals like Jack Hyde and Frontier Prince. With a weight increase, French Emperor remains a contender in the competitive field.
One Horse Town – Participating in the JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle (12.10) on Saturday
Undefeated in four National Hunt races under Harry Derham, One Horse Town, sired out of a Galileo mare, displayed exceptional performance in heavy ground conditions during the November Meeting affected by Storm Celia. Despite a strong challenge from Precious Man, One Horse Town, ridden by Harry Derham, demonstrated his stamina and ability to accelerate post-jumps. His future performances are eagerly anticipated.