National Hunt Season

The biggest stories on the track from last season look likely to dominate the headlines once again. On the jockey front Rachael Blackmore broke new ground as she claimed the leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival before landing the Grand National on Minella Times. Blackmore has returned from injury in time for the start of season at home in Ireland and it is unlikely to be spotted much in the UK before the spring. The supplier to much of her ammunition comes from Henry De Bromhead, his many accolades last season included the Cheltenham Gold Cup which was won with an impressive effort from Minella Indo. He stands as the ante post favourite to retain his crown in the blue-ribbon chase event.

Whilst the UK horses struggled to make an impact at Cheltenham over the Irish contingent, there were plenty of big stories to reflect on. We had a titanic national hunt jockeys title battle between Harry Skelton and Brian Hughes, with the latter coming out on top. He will be hard pressed to retain his title, with challengers Sam Twiston-Davies and Harry Cobden, among others, set to mount strong efforts.

The Trainers Championship looks a forgone conclusion with Paul Nicholls a short price to add another trophy to his cabinet. As well as his usual additions from the French market and Point-to-Point world, he has also obtained several experienced jump horses who can assist him towards more glory. Saint Calvados, Lalor and others will likely benefit from a change of scene and the handling of the best trainer in the UK.