The much-anticipated jumps season opener is here, with the Persian War Novices' Hurdle at Chepstow set to be the highlight of the day, broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. This competitive Grade Two race promises an exciting lineup featuring top contenders like Ryan's Rocket, Intense Approach, and Flying Fortune.
3.15 Chepstow: Competitive Field for Persian War Novices' Hurdle
The Persian War Novices' Hurdle at Chepstow (3.15) is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, especially after the withdrawal of pre-race favourites Teeshan and Brechin Castle. This opens the door for a wide range of contenders, giving Fergal O'Brien’s promising horse, Ryan's Rocket, an excellent opportunity. Ryan’s Rocket has already made a mark this spring with victories at Taunton and Kempton.
Irish raider Intense Approach, trained by John McConnel, enters the race in superb form, having won his last two outings decisively. With Harry Cobden confirmed as the rider, expectations are high for Intense Approach to perform well in the Persian War Novices' Hurdle at Chepstow.
Completing the shortlist is the in-form Flying Fortune, who aims for a fourth consecutive victory. Peter and Michael Bowen’s contender, ridden by James Bowen, has demonstrated impressive form and is a strong candidate for this event.
3.50 Chepstow: Good Boy Bobby Aims to Defend Veterans' Chase Title
In the Veterans' Chase (3.50), 2023 champion Good Boy Bobby will strive to replicate the success of Some Chaos from 2022 by defending his title in the Unibet Veterans' Handicap Chase. Off a mere 1lb higher mark, the 11-year-old trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies remains unbeaten in three starts at Chepstow, making him a favourite for this year’s renewal.
Joe Tizzard’s Copperhead, who recently ended a lengthy four-year winless streak at Plumpton, poses a potential threat as he seeks victory under jockey Freddie Gingell.
Nicky Martin’s stable veteran, The Two Amigos, has been absent since finishing seventh in the Midlands National at Uttoxeter but boasts impressive credentials, including a win in the 2022 Welsh National, making him a strong contender back at Chepstow.
Other notable horses in the race include the consistent Certainly Red and the course specialist Wayfinder, both of whom could pose challenges to Good Boy Bobby.
4.25 Chepstow: Haiti Couleurs Takes on Isaac Des Obeaux
The day's action continues with Haiti Couleurs, trained by Rebecca Curtis, making his chasing debut at Chepstow (4.25). Ben Jones will be back in the saddle for the seven-year-old, who has previously secured a second and a first at this track. If he adapts well to the fences, he could show significant progression.
Isaac Des Obeaux, representing top trainer Paul Nicholls and ridden by champion jockey Harry Cobden, also has solid course form over hurdles and could make a seamless transition to chasing.
With additional contenders like G A Henty and Sea Music, the Persian War Novices' Hurdle at Chepstow and the subsequent races promise a day filled with competitive action and exciting storylines.
