Sir Gino made a spectacular debut over fences at Kempton, leaving a strong impression in the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase. The Nicky Henderson-trained horse, who was previously unbeaten, demonstrated impressive jumping and speed, easily outpacing Grade One winner Ballyburn. After initially being a bit hesitant over the first fence, Sir Gino quickly found his rhythm and surged ahead, eventually winning by nearly eight lengths. His performance earned him odds-on favorability for the Arkle Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival.
Henderson, who had a memorable two-day run at Kempton following Constitution Hill’s victory in the Christmas Hurdle, expressed confidence in Sir Gino’s talent and speed. However, he noted that the horse would likely need another race before Cheltenham to ensure he is fully prepared.
Meanwhile, at Chepstow, the Welsh Grand National saw Mel Rowley’s Val Dancer triumph in the fog, holding off Iwilldoit and Jubilee Express. This victory marked Rowley’s first major win at Chepstow and was a significant achievement for her small yard in Shropshire.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup contenders Galopin Des Champs and Fact To File head the betting for the prestigious race. The two will face off in the Grade One Savills Chase at Leopardstown, where Galopin Des Champs has an excellent record. He has won five of his six starts at Leopardstown, including three Grade Ones over the same distance as the Savills Chase. Despite Fact To File’s impressive recent form, Galopin Des Champs remains the favorite.
Other notable races include the Leicester 1.25, where Latenightrumble is expected to improve after a successful handicap debut, and the Newbury 1.45, where Mr Bramley could take advantage of a field full of frontrunners. At Leopardstown, Home By The Lee is favored in the three-mile Grade One hurdle, having previously beaten several of his rivals at Navan.
