2026/27 Jumps Issue 1 - News before the off

Weekend Runners

Friday 

Cheltenham 

1.45 Derryhassen Paddy 

Saturday 

Cheltenham

1.45 Kabral Du Mathan, Baron Noir, Old Park Star, 

2.20 Meetmebythesea, Madara, Torneo, Johnnywho

3.30 Daylatedollarshort

Navan 

3.18 King Rasco Grey, Mighty Park

Wetherby 

1.55 Attin

2.30 Torneo

Sunday 

Cheltenham

1.25 Crystal Island, Kalkbrenner

3.10 Harry Lowes

Fontwell

1.43 Bass Hunter

Navan

2.25 King Rasko Grey

News

Cristal D’Estruval was cut for two Cheltenham Festival novice chase targets after making an impressive return from a 330-day absence with a dominant chasing debut win. Paddy Power cut the five-year-old to 14-1 (from 50) for the Arkle and 33-1 (from 50) for the Brown Advisory after he brushed aside Be Aware in the 2m graduation chase. The 12-length winning margin was aided by a fluent round of jumping, but winning trainer Harry Derham said he was “not surprised” by the performance.

Willie Mullins hits out at Cheltenham ground. He opened Closutton to the media yesterday and had some punchy comments about how we won't see good horses at Cheltenham if the ground isn't softer.

"I'm a bit worried," he said. "A lot of damage was done the last two days of Cheltenham [Festival] last season because they hadn't watered it properly. If they want the horses who race on soft ground and nice ground all winter to appear there, I think they have to produce the ground for those horses,"

"People with really good horses won't go there and that's why I worry. If we see that trend happening, we're going to change." Mullins suggested that shift may already be under way, adding: "A lot more of my owners are heading towards Aintree or Punchestown."

Sadly we reflect on Tom O’Brien who passed away on Tuesday 

Philip Hobbs, the man for whom multiple Grade 1-winning jockey Tom O'Brien rode his entire career, has paid an emotional tribute following his former stable jockey's death aged 39 after a battle with cancer.

O'Brien enjoyed a distinguished career in the saddle, highlighted by success at the Cheltenham Festival and two Welsh Grand National victories. He was a key figure in Hobbs's operation from moving to Britain until retiring at Sandown's end-of-season meeting in April 2023.

"The whole thing is desperately sad, particularly for his wife Hayley and his two kids. It's very, very sad," Hobbs told the Racing Post. "He rode an awful lot of winners for us and we had great times, but it's just very sad that his life has been taken from him so early."

Just one of O'Brien's 1,077 career victories came in Ireland, aboard the Hobbs-trained I Hear A Symphony at the Punchestown festival in 2008. Other Grade 1 successes came in the Tolworth Novices' Hurdle aboard Finian's Oscar in 2017 and Elixir De Nutz in 2019, while Thyme Hill landed the Liverpool Hurdle in 2021 before winning the Kauto Star Novices' Chase the following year. Upon retiring from the saddle O'Brien worked as a BHA steward.

2026/27 Jumps - The points scorers

Lossiemouth was the top scorer in the last jumps season - will we have a repeat winner?

2026/27 Jumps - The Single Picks

Bob (14) - Attin, Brighterdaysahead, Cristal D'Estruval, Derryhassen Paddy, Gaelic Warrior, Gatineau Park, Moore Brion, Narciso Has, Premier Division, Rattlin Home, Upon Tweed, Witches Familiar, Woodhoh, Zeus Power

Cliff (13) - Alexei, Dino Blue, Fact to File, Kingland, Madara, Mambonumberfive, Metronomique, New Rules, Point of Difference, Romeo Coolio, Steel Ally, Torneo, We're Red and Blue

Cod (10) - Air of Entitlement, Barton Snow, Captain Cody, Heart Wood, I Am Maximus, Idem, Johnny Who, Koktail Divin, Mighty Park, Soldier in Milan

Martin (11) - A Poi De Nom, Delamotte, Diva Luna, Getawhiskey, Harry Lowes, He's On Fire, Just For Dad, Kalkbrenner, Lump Sum, Mourne Crystal, The New Lion

Neil (12) - Boycetown, Dastan, Grey Dawning, Innamorato, Instant Fragile, Louis Winthorpe, Low Kick, Masaccio, Mellisse Du Mathan, Mille et un Vies, Sticktotheplan, Unflinching

Peej (6) - Daylatedollarshort, Fleur in the Park, Kargese, Salvator Mundi, The Big Westerner, Vango Can Go

Steve (11) - Baron Noir, Crystal Island, Forthfactor, Jango Baie, Minella Yoga, Nan's Choice, Panic Attack, Prince Rupert, Taurus Bay, The Jukebox Kid, Wendigo, 

In addition the following have single pick retained rights:

Neil - Lossiemouth, No Drama This End

Peej - Haiti Couleurs

2026/27 Jumps - Alphabetical List

Red is reserved rights

Act Of Innocence    Martin, Steve

Air of Entitlement    Cod

Alexi                Cliff

A Pai De Nom   Martin

Attin                Bob

Baron Noir      Steve

Barton Snow    Cod

Bass Hunter      Cod, Steve

Bossman Jack   Martin, Peej

Boycetown      Neil

Brighterdaysahead      Bob

Caldwell Potter   Neil, Peej

Captain Cody      Cod

Cristal D’Estruval    Bob

Crystal Island       Steve

Dastan                 Neil

Daytolatedollarshort   Peej

Delamotte            Martin

Derryhassen Paddy   Bob

Dino Blue            Cliff

Diva Luna            Martin

Fact To File         Cliff

Fairy Park          Bob, Cliff

Final Demand     Cod, Peej

Fleur In The Park     Peej

Forthfactor             Steve

Gaelic Warrior      Bob

Gatineau Park       Bob

Getawhiskey     Martin

Grey Dawning   Neil

Haiti Couleurs       Cod, Peej

Harry Lowes        Martin

Heart Wood            Cod

He’s On Fire          Martin

Hold The Serve       Martin, Neil

I Am Maximus      Cod

Idem                      Cod

Il Etait Temps      Neil, Peej

Innamorato           Neil

Instant Fragile       Neil

Jagwar                   Cod, Peej

Jango Baie             Steve

Johnny Who          Cod

Johnny’s Jury      Cliff, Cod, Neil, Peej, Steve

Just For Dad         Martin

Kabral Du Mathan  Martin, Peej, Steve

Kalkbrenner          Martin

Kargese                  Peej

Kingland              Cliff

King Rasco Grey     Cod, Peej 

Kitzbuhel                Cod, Martin, Neil, Peej

Kopek Des Bordes    Cliff, Cod, Peej

Koktail Divin            Cod

Le Frimeur                  Bob, Steve

Lossiemouth              Cliff, Neil

Louis Winthorpe     Neil

Low Kick                   Neil

Lulamba                    Bob, Martin, Steve

Lump Sum                  Martin

Madara                       Cliff

Mambonumberfive    Cliff

Masaccio                    Neil

Meetmebythesea         Bob, Cod, Martin, Steve

Mellise Du Mathan     Neil

Metromonique            Cliff

Mighty Park                 Cod

Mille Et un Vies         Neil

Minella Yoga              Steve

Moore Brion               Bob

Mourne Crystal          Martin

Nan’s Choice              Steve

Narciso Has                Bob

New Rules                 Cliff

No Drama This End    Neil, Steve

Old Park Star             Bob, Cliff, Martin, Steve

Panic Attack                Steve

Point Of Difference    Cliff

Premier Division        Bob

Prince Rupert              Steve

Rattlin Home              Bob

Roccontier                   Martin, Peej

Romeo Coolio           Cliff

Salvator Mundi           Peej

Saratoga                     Neil, Peej

Sober Glory                 Cliff, Peej

Soldier In Milan        Cod

Steel Ally                     Cliff

St James Finest            Cliff, Neil

Sticktotheplan             Neil

Taurus Bay                  Steve

The Big Westerner      Peej

The Jukebox Kid         Steve

The Mourne Rambler    Bob, Cod

The New Lion              Martin

Torneo                         Cliff

Unflincing                   Neil

Upon Tweed                Bob

Vango Can Go             Peej

Wendigo                       Steve

We’re Red And Blue     Cliff

Witches Familiar           Bob

Woodhoh                        Bob

Zeus Power                     Bob

2026/27 Jumps - The Strings

Cliff  - Alexei, Dino Blue, Fact To File, Fairy Park, Johnny’s Jury, Kingland,  Kopek Des Bordes, Lossiemouth, Madara, Mambonumberfive, Metromonique, New Rules, Old Park Star, Pointofdifference, Romeo Coolio, Sober Glory, St James Finest, Steel Ally, Torneo, Were Red And Blue, 

Neil - Caldwell Potter, Dastan, Grey Dawning, Hold The Serve, Il Etait Temps, Innamotato, Instant Fragile, Johnnys Jury, Kitzbuhel, Lossiemouth, Louis Winthorpe, Low Kick, Masaccio, Melisse Du Mathan, Mille et Un Vies, No Drama This End, Saratoga, St James Finest, Sticktotheplan, Unflinching

 

Martin - Act of innocence ,A Pai de Nom, Bossman Jack, Delamotte, Diva Luna, Getawhisky, Harry Lowes, He’s on fire, Hold the Serve, Just for Dad, Kalkbrenner, Kabral Du Manathan, Kitzbuhel, Lulamba, Lump Sum, Meetmebythesea, Mourne Crystal, Old park star, Roccontier, The new lion                        

Cod -  Air Of Entitlement, Barton Snow, Bass Hunter, Captain Cody, Final Demand, Haiti Couleurs, Heart Wood, I Am Maximus, Idem, Jagwar, Johhny Who, Johnny’s Jury, King Rasco Grey,  Kitzbuhel, Koktail Divin, Kopek Des Bordes, Meetmebythesea, Mighty Park, Soldier in Milan, The Mourne Rambler      

                             

Peej -  Bossman Jack, Caldwell Potter, Daylatedollarshort, Final Demand, Fleur in the Park, Haiti Couleurs, Il Etait Temps, Jagwar, Johnny's Jury, Kabral Du Mathan, Kargese, King Rasko Grey, Kitzbuhel, Kopek Des Bordes, Roccontier, Salvator Mundi, Saratoga, Sober Glory, The Big Westerner, Vango Can Go

Steve - Act of Innocence. Baron Noir, Bass Hunter, Crystal Island. ForthFactor, Jango Baie, Johnny’s Jury, Kabral Du Mathan, Le Frimeur Lullamba, MeetMeByTheSea, Minella Yoga, Nans Choice, No Drama This End Old Park Star, Panic Attack, Prince Rupert, Taurus Bay, The Jukebox Kid Wendigo

Bob - Attin, Brighterdaysahead, Cristal D’Estruval, Derryhassenpaddy, Fairy Park, Gaelic Warrior, Gatineau Park, Le Frimeur, Lulamba, Meetmebythesea, Moore Brion, Narciso Has, Old Park Star, Premier Division, Rattlin Home, The Mourne Rambler, Upon Tweed, Witches Familiar, Woodhoh, Zeus Power

2026/27 Jumps - The Editor's Star Ratings

Hats off to the Editor for sticking his head over the parapet and giving a score from 1-5 for all the horses in the Profile section this year.

I've grouped them by rating and added another section for horses that the Ed has described as 'could be anything'. Let's see how they all do.

Five Star

Final Demand

Gaelic Warrior

Instant Fragile

King Rasko Grey

Four Star

Attin

Caldwell Potter

Cristal D'Estruval

Daylatedollarshort

Kingland

Kopek Des Bordes

Meetmebythesea

Metronomique

Mighty Park

No Drama This End
Prince Rupert

Romeo Coolio

Vango Can Go

Three Star

Bass Hunter

Baron Noir

Boycetown

Delamotte

Fairy Park

Minella Yoga

Mourne Crystal

Nan's Choice

Pointofdifference

Torneo

Two Star

Dastan

Soldier in Milan

2026/27 - Jumps Profiles - The ones that didn't make it

Jonbon 10 y bg Walk In The Park – Star Face

This could be Jonbon’s last season so it seemed it only right to recap on his great career.  He has run 28 times, winning 20 and was 2nd in the other 8. His first win was in a point at Dromahane in November 2020, his first win under rules was at Newbury in March 2021, where he won a 2m bumper by 4 ¼ l from Flying Demon. In November he won a maiden hurdle at Newbury beating Good Risk at All 6l, and then won a novice grade 2 at Ascot, and In January a similar event at Haydock, All over 2 miles. In March he went to Cheltenham for the 2m grade 1 Supreme novice hurdle, and was beaten 22l by stable mate Constitution Hill. He finished the season with Victory at Aintree in the 2m grade 1 Top novice hurdle, beating El Fabiolo a neck. 

In November 2022 he won a 2m  novice chase at Warwick, beating Monmiral 7l, followed up at Sandown in December winning the 2m grade 1 Henry V111 novice chase by 8l from Boothill, and in February 2023 won a 2m grade 2 novice case at Warwick by 3l from Calico (Received 5 lb). In March at Cheltenham he was 2nd in the 2m grade 1 Arkle novice chase beaten 5 ½ l by El Fabiolo, followed up with victory at Aintree winning the 2m grade 1 Maghull novice chase by 43 l from Marvel De Cerisy. He finished the season at the end of April at Sandown winning the 2m grade 1 Celebration chase by 3 ¾ l from Captain Guinness. 

He reappeared at Cheltenham in November winning a grade 2 chase by 9 ½ l from Edwardstone, then at Sandwonin December, won the 2m grade Tingle Creek chase, again beating Edwardstone by 2 ¾ l. In January 2024 at Cheltenham he finished 2nd in the 2m grade 1 Clarence House chase, beaten a neck by Elixr Du Nutz. In April at Aintree he won the 2m 4f grade 1 Melling Chase by 1 ¼ l from Conflated. He finished the season again at Sandown winning the 2m grade 1 Celebration chase by 4l from El Fabiolo. He reappeared at Cheltenham again in November 2024 winning a grade 2 chase by 1 ½ l from Boothill (received 2lb), then won the Tingle Creek at Sandown in December by 8l from Quilixios. In January 2025 at Ascot he won the 2m 1f grade 1 Clarence house chase by 6 ½ l from Energumene, then at Cheltenham in March was 2nd in he 2m grade 1 Queen Mother champion chase beaten 18 l by Marine Nationale. He then won the Melling chase at Aintree again beating Protektorat 3 1/4l but could only finish 2nd at Sandown in the Celebration chase beaten 5 ½ l by Il Etait Temps. 

In August last year he had a wind Op, and returned to action again at Cheltenham in November, finishing 2nd in the 2m garde 2 chase, beaten 15 l by L’Eau Du Sud, and then in December was 2nd in The Tingle Creek beaten 9l by Il Etait Temps. He returned to winning ways at Ascot this January winning the 2m 1f grade 1 Clarence house chase again by 3l from Thistle Ask, and followed up with victory again at Ascot in February winning the 2m 5f grade 1 Betfair chase by 1 ½ l from PicD’Orhy. He finished the season with 2nd at Cheltenham in the 2m 4f grade 1 Ryan Air chase beaten 10 l by Heart Wood.

Nicky Henderson told The Punter: "He has had another great summer at Martinstown and has come back fresh and well. I would expect he may start in the Shloer Chase at Cheltenham which he has won twice before and then going to the Tingle Creek at Sandown which he has won three times. He still has his own foibles, but he has settled down quite considerably down the years and has become much more straightforward. He had to miss the Celebration Chase at Sandown as the ground was too quick but he’s a great horse and we look forward to several more exciting days in an already wonderful career."

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer N Henderson

L’Eau Du Sud 8 y gr g Lord Du Sud – Eaux Fortes

He made his debut in August 2021 at Royan La Palmyre finishing 4th in a 2m 1f 3 year old conditions hurdle, beaten 10 ½ l by Iron Des Mottes, then in November at Fontainbleau, fell in a 2m 2f 3yar old conditions hurdle. In December at Pau he won a 2m 1f 3 year conditions hurdle by 4l from Thequietman(received 3 lb), then in February 2022, was 2nd in a 2m 2f 4year old conditions hurdle, beaten 1 ¾ l by Ken Beseder (gave 7lb). 

In April at Auteuil he won a 2m 2f listed 4 year old hurdle by 1 ½ l from You’re the Boss, then moved to Dan Skelton and reappeared in November 2022 at Haydock, finishing 4th in a 2m 3f handicap hurdle, beaten 18 l by Stainsby Girl (received 12 lb). In December he was 3rd at Kempton in a 2m handicap hurdle beaten 3 ¼ l by No Ordinary Joe ( gave 4lb). In  March at Kelso he was 3rd again in a 2m handicap hurdle beaten 5 ½ l by Benson (gave 3lb). and had wind surgery after. 

He reappeared at Cheltenham in November, and was pulled up in a 2m handicap hurdle won by Iberico Lord, then in February 2024, was 2nd at Newbury in the 2m Betfair handicap hurdle, beaten 2 ¼ l by Iberico Lord (gave 5lb). Next at Cheltenham in March he was 2nd in the 2m 1f County handicap hurdle, beaten1l by Absurde (gave 3lb), and finished the season at Ayr finishing 5th and last, but beaten only 1 ½ l in the 2m Scottish Champion limited handicap hurdle, behind Favour And Fortune. 

He reappeared at Stratford in October last year winning a 2m 3f handicap chase by 10 l from No Risk Des Flos,(received 9lb) then followed up at Cheltenham in November winning a 2m grade 2 novice chase by 11l from Western Zephyr. In December at Sandown he won the 2m grade 1 Henry V111 Novice chase by 3 ¾ l from Touch Me Not , then in February this year  at Warwick won a grade 2 , 2m novice chase by 1 l from Rubaud. At Cheltenham in March in the 2m grade 1 Arkle novice chase he was 4t beaten 1 ½ l by Jango Baie, and finished the season at Aintree with 3rd in the 2m grade 1 Maghull novice chase beaten 5 ½ L by Kalif Du Berlais. 

He reappeared at Cheltenham in November, winning a 2m grade 2 chase by 15 l from Jonbon (gave 3lb), then in December at Sandown in the 2m grade 1 Tingle Creek chase was 3rd beaten 18 l behind Il Etait Temps. In March this year at Cheltenham in the 2m grade 1 Queen Mother Champion chase he was 3rd again beaten 11 ¾ l by Il Etait Temps, then finished the season at Aintree in the 2m 4f grade 1 Melling chase , pulling up behind Grey Dawning. 

Dan Skelton told The Punter: "as he doesn’t seem to back up after one good performance, we have changed a few things.and wil train him differently. His first target is the grade 2 Schloer chase at Cheltenham on 13 November."

Editors Rating 3 

 

Trainer D. Skelton

Princess Day 5 y gr m Success Days – Hayes Princess

Solid looking mare who made her debut at Fairyhouse Point To Point course in April last year winning a 3m 4 year old mares maiden by 3l from Fancy Hill. She moved to Jeremy Scott and made rules debut at Chepstow winning a 2m bumper by 2l from The Lightmaker (gave 7lb), then in February this year at Newbury, won a 2m bumper by 4 ¾ l from Fairy Park (received 4 lb), then Aat Aintree in April, finished 11th beaten 15 ¼ l behind Nan’s Choice in the 2m 1f grade 2 mares bumper. 

She reappeared at Chepstow in October, finishing 2nd in a 2m 3f mares novice hurdle, beaten 3 ¼ l by Divine Diva, then recently was 4th at Newbury in a 2m mares novice hurdle beaten 8 ¼ l behind Royal Response. She should be capable of winning a mares novice hurdle, probably when stepped up in trip

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer J.Scott

Mange Tout  4 y bf Born To Sea – Brune Ecossaise

Smart looking filly, she made her debut at Compiegne in May last year, winning a 2m 3 year old fillies conditions hurdle by 15 l from Maimix. Moving to Gordon Elliott she made her reappearance at Down Royal in November winning a 2m 1f 3 year old hurdle by 4l from Wizard of Odds (gave 7lb), then 3 weeks later at Fairyhouse won a grade 3 3-year old hurdle by 2 ¾ l from Narciso Has ( gave 3lb). 

In February this year at Leopardstown, she was third beaten 6l in a grade 1 Juvenile hurdle behind Narciso Has (gave 7lb), and finished the season at Aintree in April, winning the 2m 1f grade1 4 year old Boodles juvenile hurdle by ¾ l from Selma De Vary. 

She has grade 1 entries in the Morgiana hurdle and the grade1 David Nicholson mares hurdle at Cheltenham in March, and could be top class. She reappeared at Aintree recently, finishing 2nd to Alexi (gave 8lb) beaten 4l in a 2m 1f grade 2 hurdle.

Editors Rating 4

Trainer G.Elliott

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Vango Can Go

5 y bg Ocavango – Our Katie (Peej)

Another Skelton novice, he made his debut at Ballyragget last March finishing 2nd in a 3m 4 year old geldings point, beaten 4l by Soomaroy, then moved across the water and reappeared at Southwell last November, winning a 2m bumper by 4l from Iconic Jack (received 5lb). In December at Ascot he was third in a 2m listed bumper, beaten 5l behind Bass Hunter, then at Cheltenham in March this year was 8th beaten 4 ¾ l behind The Mourne Rambler. 

He Reappeared at Newton Abbot in October winning a 2m 5f novice hurdle by 12l from Crystal Orchard and will be campaigned over longer trips. The Skeltons are very good at placing their horses in winnable races and he could run up a sequence.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer D.Skelton

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Torneo

6 y bg Toronado – Abbronzatissima  (Cliff)

Potentially high class chaser he made his debut at Bordeaux Le Bouscat in October 2022, finishing 3rd in a 1m 1f conditions stakes, then in January 2023 at Cagnes -Sur – Mer, was 4th in a 7f maiden. At Pau in February he won a 1m 2f maiden then in March at Lyon – Parilly, was 2nd in a 1m 3f conditions stakes, beaten 1 ¼ l by Amelielympique (received 4 lb). In April at La Teste De Buche he was 2nd in a 1m 3f conditions stakes, beaten ½ l by Yes Zara (received 4 lb), then in June at Tarbes was 2nd again in a 1m 3f conditions stakes beaten 2 ½ l by Hamsiyaan. 

He moved to Jamie Snowden in the summer and made his UK debut at  Catterick in November 2023, finishing 2nd in a 2m juvenile hurdle, beaten 4 ¼ l by Latin Verse. He was then gelded and reappeared at Kempton in December, finishing 3rd in a 2m juvenile hurdle beaten 19 l behind Sir Gino (gave 5lb). In January 2024 he won a 2m juvenile hurdle at Wetherby by 26 l from Man of Monaco, then in February at Fontwell was 2nd in a 2m 1f handicap hurdle, beaten 7l by Copper Cove (received 6lb), then in April at Bangor, finished 6th, beaten 31 ¾ l by Balhambar (gave 4lb), in a 2m handicap hurdle. 

In October at Uttoxeter he was 3rd in a 2m handicap chase beaten 16 ½ l by Tedley ( gave 13 lb), then at Wincanton in November was 2nd in a 2m handicap chase beaten ½ l by Famoso (gave 3lb). He then went to Hereford in December and was 2nd again in a 2m novice limited handicap chase, beaten 2l by beat Box (gave 11lb). In January 2025 at Taunton he won a 2m novice handicap chase by 1 ¼ l from It’s Easy ( received 6lb), then 2 weeks later at Newcastle was 3rd in a 2m novice handicap chase beaten 3l by Coup De Coeur (received 1 lb). In March at Chepstow he won a 2m novice handicap chase by 5l from Alien Storm (gave 5lb), then in April fell at Ayr in a 2m limited novice handicap chase. 

He reappeared at Wetherby in October last year, finishing 2nd in a 1m 7f handicap chase beaten 4 ¼ l by Sir Tivo (received 4lb), then at Cheltenham in November was 2nd again in a 2m handicap chase beaten a neck by Fair Trade (gave 1 lb). In December at Newbury he was 4th in a 2m handicap chase, beaten 4 ½ l by Mighty Bandit (gave 3lb), then at Windsor in January this year finished 2nd in a 2m handicap chase beaten a head by Highlands Legacy ( gave 2 lb). In February he was 4th at Kelso in a 2m 1f handicap chase, beaten 12 l by Doyen Du Bar (gave 2lb), then at Chepstow in April was 6th in a 2m 3f handicap chase beaten 22 l by Blow Your Wad (gave 20 lb). He then won at Chepstow 3 weeks later winning a 2m handicap chase by 13 l from Paramount (received 9lb), and reappeared at Ffos Las in October, winning a 2m 3f handicap chase by 2l from Southoftheborder.

His next aim is the Paddy Power Gold Cup and hopefully he can a couple of handicaps at least

Editors rating 3 

Trainer J.Snowden

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Soldier In Milan

7 y bg Soldier Of Fortune – Time In Milan (Cod)

Lightly raced 7 year old, but useful on his day, he made his debut at Monksgrange in March 2024, winning a 3m 5 year old geldings point by 16 l from Je Viens Du Large, then moved to Emmet Mullins and reappeared at Punchestown last May, winning a 2m 3f bumper by 4 ¾ l from King Rasko Grey. 

In December last year he was pulled up at Leopardstown in a 2m 5f Beginners chase behind Koktail Divin, then in January this year at Gowran Park was 4th beaten ½ l behind C’Est Ta Chance in a 2m 4f Beginners Chase. In February at Punchestown he won a 2m 7f Beginners Chase by 1 ½ l from Kiss Will, then in March at Thurles was 4th in a 2m 5f grade 3 novice chase beaten 6 ¾ l by C’Est Ta Chance. He finished the season in April at Fairyhouse winning the 3m 5f grade 3 Irish Grand National handicap chase by 16 l from Showurappreciation (received 7lb).

That won’t have helped his handicap mark and he could be difficult to place. He will be aimed at Aintree in April.

Editors Rating 2 

Trainer E Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Romeo Coolio

7 y bg Kayf Tara – Miss Bailly (Cliff)

High class performer, he made his debut  at Belclare in March 2023 winning a 3mile 4 year maiden point by 5l from Nowhatdoyouthink, then in January 2024 made his rules debut at Fairyhouse in a 2m bumper, beating Sporting Glory (gave 5 lb) 1 ¼ l. In March at Cheltenham in the 2m grade 1 Champion Bumper he was 2nd , beaten 1 ¾ l by Jasmin De Vaux, then at Punchestown in May was 5th, beaten 17 ¾ l in the 2m grade 1 Champion bumper behind Redemption Day. 

He reappeared at Down Royal in November winning a 2m 1f maiden hurdle by 18 l from Ivybrook (received 7lb), then in December at Fairyhouse, finished 2nd in a 2m grade 2 hurdle, beaten 2 ½ l by Tounsivator. At Leopardstown in December he won the 2m grade 1 Future Champions novice hurdle by 9l from Bleu De Vassy. In March last year at Cheltenham he finished 3rd in the 2m grade 1 Supreme Novice hurdle ,beaten 7 ¼ l by Kopek Des Bordes, then was 2nd at Aintree in the 2m grade 1 Top novice hurdle beaten 7l by Salvator Mundi. 

Reappearing at Down Royal in October he won a 2m 4 f Beginner’s Chase by 14 l from Koktail Divin, and followed up at Fairyhouse in November, winning the 2m 4f grade 1 Drinmore novice chase by 8l from Gold Dancer. At Leopardstown in December he won the 2m 1f  grade 1 Racing Post novice chase by ½ l from Irish Panther, and followed up at Leopardstown in February this year winning the 2m 1f grade 1 Arkle novice chase by a neck from Kargesse. On his final start at Cheltenham in March he pulled up in the 3m 1f grade 1 Brown Advisory Chase. 

He had back surgery during the summer, set to be campaigned over 3 miles he will hopefully be a King George contender. He reappeared at Down Royal in October, finishing 4th beaten 32 ¾ l behind Haiti Couleurs, and a re think on distance may be required.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer G. Elliott

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Roccontier

4 y bg Frontiersman – Miss Rocco (Martin, Peej)

One of the could be anything Category he Made his debut at Market Rasen in March this year winning a 2m junior hurdle by 18 l from Guts and Glory (received 7lb). 

Nico De Boinville told The Punter: "he is a tall horse, light on his feet and I was impressed with him at Market Rasen. He was professional through out, jumped well and I couldn’t believe how fast we were going to the second last. He is one to look forward to in 2m novice hurdles."

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Prince Rupert

4 y bg Golden Horn – Frankellina (Steve)

One of the dark brigade, on breeding you would expect to find him in a flat string. He made his debut at Kempton  in March this year winning a 2m junior bumper by 3l from Star’s Aligning. 

Nico De Boinville Told The Punter: "he is a fine big horse who impressed me when winning at Kempton, He has a big engine and I am looking forward to him in novice hurdles.:

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer N.Henderson

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Pointofdifference

5 y bg Crystal Difference- Rosika (Cliff)

Hopefully an exciting novice hurdler, he made his debut at Bartlemy in March last year winning a 3m 4 year old geldings point by 4 ½ l from Out in De Wild, and followed up in April this year at Ballyknock, winning a 3m point by 6l from Silent Temptation (received 5 lb). 

Moving to Rebecca Curtis, he won a 2m bumper at Ffos Las by 3l from Poet’s Express. Rebecca Curtis says he is an exciting prospect for novice hurdles around 2 ½ m.

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer R.Curtis

2026/27 Jumps Profile - No Drama This End

6 y gr g Walk In the Park – La Segnora (Neil, Steve)

Very smart novice hurdler, he made his debut at Badbury Rings in November 2024, winning a 3m maiden point by 23 l from Rowdy. Moving to Paul Nicholls he made his rules debut at Warwick in December, winning a 2m bumper by 3 ½ l from Keops Des Bordes, then in March last year at Cheltenham, finished 9th, beaten 9l behind Bambino fever in the 2m grade 1 Champion Bumper behind Bambino Fever.

Reappearing at Cheltenham in November, he won a 2m 5f grade 2 novice hurdle by 3l from heads up, then in December at Sandown, won a 2m 4f grade 2 novice hurdle, beating The Blue Room (received 5lb ) 5l. 3 weeks later at Newbury he won the 2m 4f grade 1 Challow hurdle by 1 ¼ l from Klimpt Madrick, then in March this year at Cheltenham in the 2m 4f grade 1 Turners novice hurdle was pulled up behind King Rasko Grey. He finished the season at Perth in April, winning a 3m listed novice hurdle by 3 ½ l from Tormund Giantsbane. 

He reappeared at Aintree recently finishing 3rd in a 2m 4f grade 2 novice chase, beaten 8 ¼ l behind Taurus Bay. Paul Nicholls said after, he is a hard horse to get fit, will improve for the run and will be better on softer ground.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer P.Nicholls

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Nan’s Choice

5 y br m Getaway – Morning Missy (Steve)

Useful mare who made her debut at Limerick last December in a 2m bumper, finishing 4th, beaten 4l behind Never Late (received 7lb), then at Gowran Park in February this year won a 2m mares flat race by 5l from Luciole Des Bordes (gave 7lb). Bought privately she moved to the Skeltons and reappeared at Aintree in April winning the 2m 1f grade 2 mares bumper by 1 ¼ l from Lennon Grove and reappeared recently at Newbury, finishing 5th in a 2m mares novice hurdle, beaten 11l behind Royal Response. 

She will be better when upped in trip and is being aimed at the Dawn Run mares hurdle at Cheltenham in March.

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer D.Skelton

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Mourne Crystal

4 y bg Crystal Ocean – Curtain Belle (Martin)

One of the could be any thing category, he made his debut at Portrush in March this year winning a 3m 4 year old maiden point by 9l from Igoldinof, then In October at Ffos Las, was 3rd in a 2m novice hurdle, beaten ¾ l by Spanish Stroll 9gave 1 lb). 

Ben Pauling told The Punter: "he is the most exciting pointer we have bought, he has loads of speed and I hope he will be top drawer."

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer B.Pauling

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Minella Yoga

4 y bg Study Of Man – Yoga  (Steve) 

Paul Nicholls might not have quite the army of grade 1 stars of the past, but he is still a force to be reckoned with, and it’s no surprise some of his novices have been picked. This one made his debut at Fairyhouse in November last year, winning a 2m 1f Academy hurdle by 5l from Apache Peak. 

Bought at the Cheltenham November sale, he reappeared at Newbury in December, winning a 2m Introductory hurdle by ¾ l from Act Of Innocence (gave 20 lb), then at Cheltenham in January was 3rd in the 2m 1f grade 1 Juvenile hurdle, beaten 3l by Maestro Conti (gave 3lb), and then at Taunton in April won a 2m novice hurdle by 10 l from Secret Sniper (gave 1 lb). He finished the season at Sandown in April finishing 5th, beaten 7l by Cosmic Connection ( gave 5lb), in the 2m novice handicap Championship hurdle. 

Paul Nicholls told The Punter: "there is lots more to come from him and he will be aimed at the Gerry Fielden hurdle, then the William Hill hurdle at Newbury in February."

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer P.Nicholl’s 

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Mighty Park

5 y bg Walk In The Park – Knotted Midge (Cod)

One of the dark horses, he made his debut at Quakerstown in April last year, finishing 2nd beaten 1 ½ l in a 3m 4 year old maiden behind Harry Lowes. In January this year at Fairyhouse he won a 2m maiden hurdle by 38 l from Roc Dino, then in March at Cheltenham was 9th in the 2m grade 1 Supreme novice hurdle beaten 17 l behind Old Park Star. 

Entries suggest he is going novice chasing and he could be exciting to follow.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer W.Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Metronomique

4 y bg Cloth Of Stars – Gousse Vanille (Cliff)

The Editor's second French pick, he made his debut at Moulins in March last year, finishing 2nd in a 2m 1f conditions hurdle, beaten ¾ l by Mojito Des Mottes , then in April at Lyon- Parilly was 2nd again in a similar event, beaten 2l by Ready (received 7lb). 

He got off the mark at Compiegne in September, winning a 2m 1f 3 year old conditions chase by 7l from Mary Shelley (received 5lb), and followed up in October over course and distance, wining a 3 year old listed chase by 20 l from Mary Shelley (received 9lb). In March this year, again at Compiegne, he won a 2m 2f conditions hurdle by 2l from Mister Banker (received 2lb), then fell at Auteuil in March, in a 2m 6f grade 3 chase. In April back at Compiegne, he won a 2m 3f grade 3 chase by 9l from Opera Light, and followed up in May at Auteuil, winning a 2m 6f grade 1 chase by 14l from Victix Du Mensil (received 5lb). 

In September at Auteuil he won a 2m 6f grade 3 chase by 6 ½ l from French Lover (received 8lb), and on his last appearance at Auteuil in October, finished 2nd in a 2m 6f grade 3 chase beaten 4 ½ l by Melisse Du Mathan (received 13lb), From a top stable he should win more graded races.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer Noel George & Amanda Zetterholm

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Meetmebythesea

6 y bg Watar – Lake Wakatipu  (Bob, Cod, Martin, Steve)

High class performer he made his debut at Monksgrange in March 2024,finishing 2nd in a 3m, 4 year old maiden point, beaten 2 ½ l bt He Can’t Dance, then moving to Ben Pauling, reappeared at Ludlow in November, winning a 2m maiden hurdle by 2 ¼ l from Rascallion. In January last year he won a 2m novice hurdle at Doncaster by a neck from Mythical Moon (gave 3lb), then in March at Sandown was third in the 2m 4f novice premier handicap hurdle final, beaten 3l by Lauren’s Bay. 

He reappeared at Wetherby last November, winning a 1m 7f handicap chase by ½ l from Push The Button (gave 6lb), then at Ayr in January this year won a 2m novice chase by 1 ¾ l from Dedicated Hero (received 6 lb). In February at Newbury this year he was last of 6 in a 2m grade 2 novice chase beaten 51 ¼ l behind Lulamba, and finished the season at Cheltenham in March, winning the 2m 4f  novice limited handicap chase by 4 ¾ l from Gold Dancer (gave 6lb). 

Ben Pauling told The Punter: "he is one of the most exciting horses we have had for some time. His first target is the Paddy Power Gold Cup and he should be competitive off his mark of 151, then we will be looking at Graded races.:

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer B.Pauling

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Kopek Des Bordes

5 y bg No Risk At All – Miss Berry (Cliff, Cod, Peej)

Top class novice hurdler, he made his debut at Fairyhouse in March last year, winning a 2m bumper by 13 l from Clap Of Thunder (received 7lb), then reappeared in December at Punchestown, winning a 2m maiden hurdle by 2 ¾ l from Kawaboomga, then in February at Leopardstown, won the 2m grade 1 Ireland Novice hurdle by 13 l from Karniquet. In March at Cheltenham he won the 2m grade 1 Supreme novice hurdle by 1 ¾ l from William Munny, and finished at Punchestown in April, finishing 4th in the 2m grade 1 Champion novice hurdle, beaten 31 l behind Irancy. 

He reappeared at Navan in November last year, winning a 2m 1f Beginners Chase by 13 l from Lovely Hurling, then in March at Cheltenham in the 2m grade 1 Arkle chase, finished 2nd to stable mate Kargese, beaten 2 ¼ l. In April at Punchestown he fell in the 2m grade 1 Barberstown novice chase won by Salvator Mundi. He reappeared at Naas recently finishing 2nd in a 2m grade 3 chase beaten 10 l by Irish Panther.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer W.Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - King Rasko Grey

6 y bg Galiway – Imagine Move (Cod, Peej)

Has a 50 % strike rate and from the Willie Mullins camp, so will no doubt win more this season, he made his debut at Punchestown in April 2024, finishing 4th, beaten 3 ½ l behind Sermandzarak (received 5lb) in a 2m bumper, then in May last year at Punchestown, was 2nd in a 2m 3f bumper, beaten 4 ¾ l by Soldier In Milan. 

In December at Limerick he won a 2m maiden hurdle by 2 ¾ l from Shuttle Diplomacy  (gave 8lb), then in February this year at Leopardstown, was third in the 2m grade 1 Tattersalls novice hurdle, beaten ½ l by Talk The Talk. At Cheltenham in March he won the 2m 5f grade 1 Turners novice hurdle by 2 ½ l from Act Of Innocence, and finished the season at Punchestown in May winning the 2m 4f grade 1 Champion novice hurdle by a head from Lord Byron. 

Entries suggest he is going novice chasing.

Editors Rating 5 

Trainer W.MULLINS

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Kingland

6 y bg Cokoriko – Annaland (Cliff)

Having proposed the inclusion of French races the Editor thought he had to include a couple of French horses and this is my first pick. He made his debut at Auteuil in September 2023 winning a 2m 2f listed hurdle for unraced 3 year old colts and geldings by 2 ½ l from Milan Tino, then in October over course and distance in a grade 2 3 year old hurdle, was 44th beaten 5 ½ l by Jigme (gave 2 lb).

In November, again over course and distance he was 3rd in a 3 year old grade 1 hurdle, beaten 9l by Jigme, then in March 2024 again over Course and distance was pulled up in a 4 year old grade 3 hurdle. He then in April won a 4 year old grade 3 hurdle over course and distance by 15 l from Sultan Pierji (received 3 lb), and in May in a 2m 3 f grade 1 4 year old hurdle, finished 2nd beaten 2 ½ l by Pistache Dore, then in October back over 2m 2f won a grade 3 4 year old hurdle by 4l from Pistache Dore (gave 2lb). 3 weeks later in a 2m 3f grade 3 4 year old hurdle he beat Gardien De Musee (received 7lb), by 10 l, and followed up over course and distance in November, beating Zephyr De Beaumont 9l in a grade 1 4 year old hurdle. 

He reappeared at Auteuil in September this year winning a 2m 2f conditions hurdle by 11 l from Kolokico, and followed up over 2m 5f in a grade 3 hurdle, beating Theleme 9 ½ l. He will hopefully pick up a few more graded hurdles, and may be a Cheltenham horse come March.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer F. Nicole

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Kalkbrenner

6 y bg Getaway – Coillte Allain  (Martin)

He made his debut at Tattersalls Farm in December 2024, winning a 3m 4 year old geldings point by 1 ½ l from Riskaway, then moved to Ben Pauling and reappeared at Ayr last April finishing 4th in a 2m bumper, beaten 5 ½ l behind Dysart Dolomite and then in October at Ffos Las won a 2m 4f maiden hurdle by 1 ¾ l from Prince of Peace (received 3 lb), then in November at Newbury was 2nd in a 2m 4f novice hurdle, beaten a head by Lint Madrik (received 6lb), and finished the season at Newbury in the 2m 4f garde 1` Challow hurdle finishing last of 6 beaten 28 ¼ l behind No Drama This End. 

Ben Pauling told The Punter: "he is a brilliant jumper and could be our best novice chaser this season. He pulled muscles at Newbury in the Challow and we won’t rush him, but hopefully he will be a Cheltenham horse come March."

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Instant Fragile

4 y gr c Sea The Moon – Anazone (Neil)

Opening up to French racing is going to be interesting and I hope this colt is a good jumper! He made his debut at Marseille Borley in October 2024, winning a 1m 2 year old listed stakes by 1 ½ l from Ring True (received 4 lb), then in March last year at Saint-Cloud was 5th, beaten 3l by Aidan’s Phone in a 1m 2f 3 year old listed stakes. In April at Toulouse he won a 1m 3 year old listed stakes by 1 ¾ l from Tipinso then in August at Deauville was 6th in a 1m 2f 3 year old listed stakes beaten 5 ¼ l behind Damysus. 

In September at Marseille Borley he won another 1m 2f 3 year old listed stakes by a short head from Al Aali (received 3 lb), then in October over course and distance was last o7 in a similar event, beaten 11 ¾ l by C’est  Vrai. He Moved from N. Perrett to G. Mosse and in March this year was 2nd in a 1m listed stakes, beaten 4 ½ l by Silius (received 3 lb), then at Saint- Cloud in March was 9th beaten 11 ¾ l by Dreamliner in a 1m group 3. In August at Clairefontaine, he was 6th beaten 9 ¾ l in a 1m 1f listed stakes, then changed trainers and moved to D. Bressou. 

In October this year at Auteuil he won a 2m2f conditions hurdle by 5l from Here Be Dragons, then followed up 3 weeks over course and distance in a similar event beating Riverside Davier (received 2 lb) 10 l. He looks a very smart recruit. 

Editors Rating 5 

Trainer D. Bressou

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Gaelic Warrior

8 y bg Maximos – Game Of Legs (Bob)

I was surprised that he is only 8 as he seems to have been around a fair time now and has been a good servant of Bob’s string, he made his debut at Auteuil in April 2021, finishing 6th in a 1m 7f listed hurdle for 3 year old unraced over obstacles colts and geldings, beaten 17 behind Paradiso. In May over course and distance he was third in a 3 year old conditions hurdle foe colts and geldings, beaten 1l by Imprenable (gave 2 lb), then again over course and distance in June was again third in a similar event, beaten 6 ½ l by Sans Bruit (gave 4lb). 

He moved to Willie Mullins and made his stable  debut at Cheltenham in March 2022, finishing 2nd in the 2m grade 3 juvenile handicap hurdle, beaten a short head by Brazil (gave 8lb). Reappearing at Tramore in December, he won a 2m maiden hurdle by 86 l from Littel Flour (received 10 lb), then in  January 2023, followed up at Clonmel, winning a 2m conditions hurdle by 15 l from Blue Sari (gave 3 lb). In February at Leopardstown he won a 2m grade B hurdle by 3 ¾ l from Nibiru ( received 211 lb), then Cheltenham in March was 2nd in the 2m 5f grade 1 Ballymore novice hurdle, beaten 6 ½ l by Impaire Et Passe. He finished the season in April winning a 3m grade 1 novice hurdle by 10 l from Affordable Fury. 

He reappeared at Punchestown in November, winning a 2m 3f Beginners Chase by 15 l from Inothewayurthinkin, then in December at Limerick, won the 2m 3f grade 1 Faugheen novice chase by 5 ½ l from Il Etait Temps. In February 2024 he un seated in a 2m 5f grade 1 novice chase, then at Cheltenham in March, he won the 2m grade Arkle novice chase by 8 ½ l from FoundA Fifty, and finished the season at Punchestown in May, finishing 2nd in the 2m grade 1 Barberstown Castle novice chase, beaten 2 ¼ l by Il Etait Temps. 

He reappeared at Leopardstown in December, finishing 2nd in a 2m 1f grade 1 chase beaten 3 ¾ l by Solness, then in February last year, again finished behind  Solness in the 2m 1f grade 1 Dublin chase, finishing 3rd beaten 14l. In April at Aintree he won the 3m 1f grade 1 Golden Miller Bowl chase by 3l from Grey Dawning, then 3 weeks later at Sandown won the 2m 6f grade 2 Oaksey chase by 5l from Appreciate It. Reappearing at Punchestown last November, he won the 2m 3f grade 1 John Durkan Memorial chase  by a neck from Fact To File, then in December at Kempton, finished 3rd in the 3m grade 1 King George V1 chase, beaten a short head behind The Juke Box Man. In February this year  at Leopardstown he was 2nd in the 3m 1f grade 1` Irish Gold Cup beaten 5l by Fact To File, then at Cheltenham in March won the 3m 2f grade 1 Gold Cup by 8l from Jango Baie. He finished the season at Punchestown in April winning the 3m 1f grade 1 Punchestown Gold Cup by 26 l from Fact To File. 

He will be a major player again in the grade 1 chases, 

Editors Rating 5 

Trainer W.Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Final Demand

7 y bg Walk In The Park – Zuzuka (Cod, Peej)

High class gelding who made his debut at Lingstown in March 2024, winning a 3m 5&6 year old geldings maiden by 6l from River Run Free, then having moved to Willie Mullins, won a 2m 5f maiden hurdle at Limerick in December by 15 l from Timmy Tuesday. In February last year at Leopardstown he won a 2m 6f grade 1 novice hurdle by 12 l from Wingmen, then in March at Cheltenham was 3rd in the 2m 5f grade 1 Turners novice hurdle, beaten 5 ½ l behind The New Lion. 

In May at Punchestown he won the 2m 4f grade 1 Champion novice hurdle by 16 l from Lovely Hurling, then reappeared at Navan in November, winning a 2m 4f Beginners Chase by 13l from Wingmen. At Limerick in December he won the 2m 5f grade 1 Faugheen novice chase by 8l from Gold Dancer, then at Leopardstown in February this year was third in the 2m 5f grade 1 novice chase beaten 12 ¼ l behind Kaid d Authie. He finished the season at Cheltenham in the 3m 1f grade 1 Brown’s Advisory novice chase finishing 2nd beaten ¾ l but was subsequently disqualified for having a banned substance. 

He holds a number of grade 1 entries including the Gold Cup in March and should be a major player in the top staying chases in a division which looks wide open.

Editors Rating 5 

Trainer W.Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Fairy Park

5 y bm Walk In The Park – Fairy Hill (Bob, Cliff)

Potentially smart mare, she made her debut at Dromahane in April last year, winning a 3m 4 year old mares maiden point by 8l from Cappa Lass. She moved to Joe Tizzard and made her rules debut at Newbury in February this year, finishing 2nd in a 2m mares bumper, beaten 4 ¼ l by Princess Day (gave 4lb), then in April at Aintree finished third in the 2m 1f grade 2 mares bumper, beaten 2 ¼ l by Nan’s Choice. 

She reappeared at Ffos Las in October winning a 2m 4f mares hurdle by 8l from Vrheligonne. Joe Tizzard told the Punter: "I think she’s my best novice mare. She should have, perhaps, won at Aintree last year and finished third staying on late. She jumps like a buck and, if I get the chance with the ground, she’ll have a run before going for the Mares’ Listed race at Newbury. She’s a big girl and if the ground isn’t good enough, I wouldn’t be afraid of going straight to Newbury with her. She’s a proper racehorse and I think we will end up at Cheltenham with her."

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer J.Tizzard

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Delamotte

4 y bg Galiway – Leah Hannah (Martin)

Probably the darkest horse in the strings he made his debut at Punchestown in April this year winning a 2m bumper by 3l from Teofil. He doesn’t have any grade 1 entries currently, and will be interesting to watch.

Editors rating 3 

Trainer W.Mullins

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Daylatedollarshort

5 y br g Wings Of Eagles – Hannah Mori (Peej)

Decent novice hurdler last season he made his debut at Loughrea in May last year winning a 3m 4 year old geldings point by a neck from Leader Crik. 

Moving across the water to Olly Murphy, he made his rules debut at Plumpton in November, finishing 2nd in a 2m 4f maiden hurdle, beaten 3 ½ l by Maldini Milano (gave 1 lb), then at Bangor 3 weeks later in a 2m 3f maiden hurdle was 4th beaten 8 ½ l by Atlantic Lad (gave 4lb). He got off the mark in December at Wetherby winning a 2m 5f handicap hurdle by a neck from Malicash (gave 6lb), and in March this year followed up over course and distance in a similar event beating Mandarb ( received 10 lb) 2 ¼ l. He finished the season at Punchestown in April finishing 2nd beaten ½ l by Powerful in a 2m 3f handicap hurdle and reappeared at Chepstow in October, winning a 2m 3f Premier handicap hurdle by 2 ¼ l from Perseus Way (received 5lb). 

Olly Murphy told The Punter: "he is a tough, hardy horse, a progressive handicapper who could next run at Cheltenham on 13 November in a handicap hurdle." He should certainly win again this season.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer O.Murphy

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Dastan

3 y gr g Reliable Man Diajaka   (Neil)

Undoubtably the most interesting horse of all, Neil has a couple of shares in him as he has just joined owners group. He is not a normal purchase by them, so will see how he goes. He needs to improve significantly!

He made his debut at Capannelle in  November last year finishing 8th, beaten 19 ¾ l behind Dr Omran in a 1m 1f 2 year old group 3, then in June this year at San Siro, was last of 16 beaten 12 l in the 143rd group 2 Derby Italiano, behind Venetian Prince, and finished at Dortmund in June, finishing last of 4 beaten.  4 ¼ l by Quitos. The grounds for optimism are all the form he has is group class, his reappearance will be fascinating.

Editors Rating 2

Trainer A King

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Cristal d’Estruval

5 y bg Crystal Ocean – Aurore d’Estruval 

Promising sort due to go novice chasing, he made his debut at Lisronagh in February last year winning a 3m 4year old geldings maiden point by a neck from no Walk over, then having moved across the water to Harry Derham, reappeared at Warwick in November winning a 2m maiden hurdle by 3l from Baron Noir and finished the season at Carlisle, winning a 2m 1f novice hurdle by an eye catching 38 l from Another High Five (received 10lb). 

He then sustained a fetlock injury but reappeared at Carlisle recently winning a 2m graduation chase by 12l from Be Aware. He holds grade 1 entries and he looks smart.

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer H.Derham

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Caldwell Potter

8 y gr g Martaline – Matnie  (Neil, Peej)

High class chaser on the come back trail having missed last season, he made his debut at Punchestown in April 2022 when trained by Gordon Elliott, finishing 8th, beaten 18 l in a 2m bumper behind Absolute Notions. 

Reappearing over course and distance in a similar event in November he won by 7 ½ l from Cardamon Hill (received 7lb), then in December at Leopardstown was 6th, beaten 24 ½ l by Fascile Mode (received 14 lb) in another 2m bumper. In February at Naas in another 2m bumper he was third beaten 4 ¼ l by Stellar Story (received 5lb), then reappearing at Punchestown in November, was 2nd in a 2m maiden hurdle, beaten 1 1/2 l by It’s For Me. In  December at Navan he won a 2m maiden hurdle by 7l from Gorgeous Tom, then in December at Leopardstown, won the 2m grade 1 Future Champions novice hurdle by 6 ½ l from Predators Gold. 

He moved to Paul Nicholls and reappeared at Carlise in December wining a 2m novice chase by 5l from Hombre De Guerra , then at Cheltenham 2 weeks later was 3rd , beaten 13 l behind Jango Baie in 2m 4f novice chase. In January 2025 he was 2nd at Windsor, beaten 4l by Gidleigh Park in a 2m grade 2 novice chase, then in March at Cheltenham, won the 2m 4f grade 2 limited handicap chase by 6 ½ l from Anyway (received 7 lb). He finished the season with victory at Aintree, winning the 3m 1f grade 1 Mildmay novice chase by 1 ¼ l from Jordan’s. Paul Nicholls reports him in good order, though he won’t be rushed back with the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham his first target, with the Gold Cup in March the main target. 

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer P. Nicholls

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Boycetown

5 y gr g Capri – Elphis Supreme (Neil)

Useful looking sort he made his debut at Quakerstown in April last year, finishing 6l 2nd in a 4year 3m maiden point behind Sound As A Bell (gave 5lb). Moving to Gavin Cromwell, he made his rules debut in November last year, finishing 2nd in a 2m 1f bumper at Punchestown, beaten 3 ½ l by It’s Only a Game, then in December at Down Royal won a similar event by 18l from Long Goodbye. 

In March this year at Cheltenham in the 2m Champion Bumper, he was 4th beaten 3l behind The Mourne Rambler, then at Punchestown in April was 3rd in the 2m grade 1 Champion bumper, beaten 2 ½ l by With Nolimit. He reappeared at Galway in October finishing 3rd in a 2m maiden hurdle beaten 12 ½ l by Thinkitdontjinxit. 

Gavin Cromwell told The Punter: "He’s a lovely horse that we are looking forward to. We have started  him off over hurdles recently. Over  two miles with a view to potentially stepping up to two-and-a-half miles later in the season."

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer G.Cromwell

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Baron Noir

6 y bg  Vadamos – Scooping (Steve)

Smart hurdler, he made his debut at Leopardstown in March 2024, finishing 3rd in a 2m bumper, beaten 7 ¼ l by Glynn Brae, then 3 weeks later at Limerick, was 8th, beaten 38 l in a listed bumper behind Shuttle Diplomacy (gave 4lb). 

He moved to Alan King and reappeared at Plumpton in December, December winning a 2m 1f bumper by a neck from Kingston Queen (received 7 lb). In February last year at Newbury he was third in a 2m listed bumper, beaten 2 ½ l by Sober Glory, then at Punchestown in May won an Irish  National hunt flat race by 1 ½ l from El Cairos (gave 7lb). 

Reappearing at Warick last November he was 2nd in a 2m maiden hurdle beaten 3l by Cristal d’Estruval , then at Uttoxeter in December, won a 2m maiden hurdle by 3 /4 l from Bobby’s Nelson. In January this year at Kempton he won a 2m novice hurdle by 2 ½ l from Koktail Bleu, then at Cheltenham in March was 4th in the 2m grade 1 Supreme novice hurdle, finishing 7 ½ l behind Old Park Star. He finished the season at Aintree in the 2m grade 1 Top Novice hurdle, beaten 4 ½ l behind Storming George. 

Entries suggest he is going novice chasing, so he will be interesting to watch

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer A.King

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Bass Hunter

6 y bg Authorized Courseulles  (Cod, Steve)

Smart bumper horse last season, he made his debut at Belharbour in February 2024, finishing 3rd in a 3m 4 year old maiden point, beaten 20 ¼ l behind That’s Nice. 

He was gelded and reappeared at Lingstown in November, pulling up in a 3m 4year old geldings maiden, then in March last year at Ballyragget won a 3m maiden point for 5 year olds and up by 7l from The Nuke Sensation (received 5lb). 

He moved across the water to Chris Gordon, and made his rules debut at Newbury last November, winning a 2m bumper by 8l from Looping d Arc (gave 3 lb), then followed up at Ascot in December, winning a 2m listed bumper by  1l from Tally Ho Back. In March at Cheltenham in the 2m Champion Bumper, he was third beaten 2 ¾ l by The Mourne Rambler, then at Aintree in April was 12th beaten 52 ¼  l in the 2m1 f grade 2 bumper behind Forthfactor. 

He reappeared at Plumpton in October, winning a 2m novice hurdle by 8 ½ l from Anniversary (gave 6lb), and should win more novice hurdles, Chris Gordon told The Punter: he suffered from colic last season, and pulled muscles at Aintree. I am looking forward to him progressing when stepped up in trip."

Editors Rating 3 

Trainer C.Gordon

2026/27 Jumps Profile - Attin

5 y bg No Risk At All – Apokalypse (Bob)

We start with one of the dark horses, one raced , winning a 2m 1f bumper at Newcastle in April this year by 8l from Marquis (received 3 lb). He reappeared at Ayr recently, finishing 2nd in a 2m novice hurdle, beaten 9 ½ l behind Jet Of Stars. Nicky Richards told The Punter: "a lovely horse who didn’t surprise us when winning at Newcastle, he is a strong traveller with bags of speed. He has schooled well and is ready to run in 2m novice hurdles. I think he is a very nice horse."

Editors Rating 4 

Trainer N.Richards

2026/27 Jumps - What's in a Name?

Harry Lowes chocolates are handcrafted on the Adare Manor grounds, in their historic cottage-turned chocolatier, a miniature masterpiece of unique flavour...

Prince Rupert of the Rhine, Duke of Cumberland (17 December [O.S. 7 December] 1619 – 29 November [O.S. 19 November] 1682) was an English–German army officer, admiral, scientist, and colonial governor. He first rose to prominence as a Royalist cavalry commander during the English Civil War. Rupert was the third son of the German Prince Frederick V of the Palatinate and Elizabeth, eldest daughter of King James VI and I of Scotland and England respectively.

Kitzbühel is a famous medieval Alpine town and upscale ski resort in the Tyrol region of western Austria, known as a blend of historic charm and modern luxury

The French phrase "mille et une vies" translates literally to "a thousand and one lives".

2026/27 Jumps - Bonus Races and Scoring

Scoring system

All races in UK, Ireland and France

25 Points - Grade One win

25 points - UK Premier Handicap win

20 points - Grade Two win

12 points - Grade Three win (IRE, France), Listed Race non handicap win (UK)

10 points - Any other race including listed handicaps

 

 

Bonus Races

Nov/Dec - The Coral Gold Cup (The Hennessy)

December - The King George VI Chase, Welsh Grand National

February     Betfair Hurdle

March - The Champion Hurdle

March - The Champion Chase

March - The Stayers Hurdle

March - The Gold Cup

April - The Grand National

April - The Bet365 Gold Cup (The Whitbread)

 

These races are the only ones to get the 12 point second place bonus.

The win bonus system - The bonus being applied after the points for Race value + Tote price (x2 for single pick) 

2026/27 Jumps - Previous Champs and Chumps

Figures in brackets are points totals. 10 Horses were used up to jumps 99/2000 when we moved to 15.

From jump season 200/7 8 single picks get double points.

Hall Of Fame                              List Of Shame                             

Flat 1998   Steve

Flat 1999  Tony (276)            Spoon Bob (59)

Flat 2000 Bob    (497)           Spoon  Steve (105)

Flat 2001 Cod    (402)           Spoon  Cliff (99)

Flat 2000 John (794)            Spoon  Steve (259)

Flat 2003 Neil (601)             Spoon)  Steve) (229)

Flat 2004  John                    Spoon  Peej)

Flat 2005  Neil                      Spoon John   

Flat 2006 Neil (580)             Spoon Peej (224)

Flat 2007  Cliff 703             Spoon Martin 155     

Flat 2008  Cod 1019             Spoon  Steve

Flat 2009  Peej 874                Spoon Tony333

Flat 2010 Bob 958                  Spoon  John 456

Flat 2011 John967                Spoon    Steve    546

Flat 2012  Cod   881               Spoon    Peej   498

Flat 2013 Martin   778.5           Spoon   Bob   377

Flat 2014  Lee    1222.1             Spoon   Martin 443.1

Flat 2015  Cliff   1057.1            Spoon   Steve     340.8

Flat 2016   Bob   875.9             Spoon    Steve  328.1   

Flat 2017   Martin  821.2         Spoon Cod   184.5

Flat2018    Cliff     1254.8         Spoon  Cod  246.2

Flat 2019    Neil  1437.2            Spoon   Peej 545.4

Flat 2020   Cliff   872.4              Spoon   Cod    307.35 * short season due to Covid      

Flat 2021 Steve 802.8                Spoon Peej    217.75

Flat 2022   Neil 838.73                Spoon Cod 250.8

Flat 2023   Bob  995.46              Spoon   Peej  432.74

Flat   2024 Neil 1039.33              Spoon  Bob 553.22

Flat   2025  Cod 1037.94             Spoon  Cliff  328.98 

Flat   2026  Cod 1044.75             Spoon Martin 484.73

Jumps Hall Of Fame                    List Of  Shame

Jumps 98/99 Cliff                        Spoon Steve

Jumps 99/00 Cliff(541)                Spoon Steve (182)

Jumps 00/01 Bob (387)                Spoon Lee  (198)

Jumps 01/02 Martin (512)          Spoon Steve (161)

Jumps 02/03 Lee (618)                Spoon Cod  (238)

Jumps 03/04 Neil( 661)               Spoon Steve (361)

Jumps 04/05 John (571)             Spoon Steve (166)

Jumps 05/06 John (571)             Spoon Cliff (180)      

Jumps 06/07 Lee 705                   Spoon  Cod  203

Jumps 07/08 Cliff 703                Spoon   John 322

Jumps 08/09 Lee 737                 Spoon   Tony 249

Jumps   09/10  Bob 983              Spoon    Neil 497

Jumps 10/11   Martin 750         Spoon   Peej 481

Jumps 11/12    Cod   698           Spoon Neil 441

Jumps 12/13  Neil                       Spoon Cliff  

Jumps 13/14  Peej, 842.6          Spoon  Cliff   400.2

Jumps 14/15 Tony 910.6      Spoon 327.8

Jumps 15/16   Neil                 Spoon Steve 545.4  

  Jumps   16/17 Lee 1061                 Spoon   Bob  645.8           

Jumps 17/18  Steve    1035.84          Spoon  Bob  510.9

Jumps 18/19   Peej    1055.1               Spoon     Neil 559.1

Jumps 19/20  Steve 737.7                   Spoon  Cod 481.3  (Season stopped on March 20th due to Covid 19)

Jumps 20/21  Cliff   1093.8           Spoon  Bob   373.1

Jumps 21/22    Peej 1203.92         Spoon Martin 427.99

Jumps 22/23  Peej  1226.22             Spoon  Cliff  680.42

Jumps 23/4    Peej   1111.9                  Spoon Cod 639. 57

Jumps 24/5    Steve 794.57               Spoon Martin 351.45

Jumps 25/26  Neil      830.51              Spoon  Cliff    396.25

2026/27 Jumps - Editor's Introduction

To ensure I have time to cover the new entrants, I start to lay down the spine of the handbook with some big names early. I thought I would give Jonbon another entry as this may be his last season, but shock, horror, Ashers has dropped him!! However, he goes in the One’s that didn’t make it section, and retains his spot on the cover, as he has been a great horse, and I had forgotten that Constitution Hill trounced him in the Supreme Novice Hurdle. 

We try something new with addition of all races in France with a view to bringing at more variety to things, we will see how it goes there are a few French picks. 

At present it looks like a tricky season ahead unless we get some steady days of rain, with even the top tracks struggling to get good to soft ground. No doubt in a few weeks we will see waterlogging but we will see. Trainer wise the Skeltons have been cleaning up early doors but I don’t see many stand out grade 1 winners. Ben Pauling continues to move up and has a few in the strings this time. 

We have 105 different horses, the most popular is surprisingly the novice chaser Johnny’s Jury from the Jamie Snowden stable with 5 and perhaps a sign of an average bunch of older horses the Gold Cup winner is a single pick, The Champion Chase and Champion hurdle winners only have 2 and the RyanAir winner one.

We tip our hats to Neil who has managed to pick an entire squad of Greys!

85 are single picks, 31 are covered below so good luck to all

The Editor