Often seen as the Gold Cup for novice runners, the Novices Race is a prestigious target for any trainer, and this season’s entries make for a strong field. This three miler is all about stamina – if it isn’t there, you don’t stand a chance.
The staying novices take centre stage next in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase, a race that often points the way to future Gold Cup contenders. The market has been in flux, with confidence shifting between a handful of leading names as their preparations have unfolded.
Final Demand remains the headline act for now. He made a striking impression at Navan in November, jumping accurately and drawing 13 lengths clear of his nearest rival. That display marked him out as a serious staying prospect. At Limerick next time, with Patrick Mullins on board, he still came home in front but his fencing lacked the same sharpness. The concerns deepened slightly at the Dublin Racing Festival, where his jumping again came under scrutiny. Even so, he continues to head the betting, a reflection of the raw ability he has already shown.
Romeo Coolio is another prominent name in the mix, though his participation is not set in stone. His victory in the Irish Arkle highlighted his determination and cruising speed over two miles. He has also shaped as though 2m4f is within range. The unknown is three miles, a trip he has yet to tackle under rules. While his pace would not be out of place in a shorter race, stretching out further raises questions about whether he would see it out as strongly as some of his rivals.
The Big Westerner could be the one to capitalise if doubts remain about the market leaders. Henry de Bromhead’s yard may not have dominated the headlines this season, but this gelding has done little wrong, finishing second on his return before getting off the mark next time. Those efforts came short of three miles, yet his previous hurdle form suggests stamina is not an issue. His 2m6f win last time hinted that he would welcome an extra furlong or two, and that profile fits this test well.
Another from the Mullins camp, Kaid d’Authie, is quietly building momentum. At the Dublin Racing Festival he pulled clear of Western Fold in the closing stages and kept on with purpose. That run suggested a strong engine and the capacity to cope with a searching gallop. He may be equally comfortable at intermediate distances, but there is enough there to believe he could take another step forward over three miles.
Wendigo completes a competitive picture. He is the only horse among the top of the market to have already won at the trip, a notable asset in a race where stamina can be exposed up the hill. While some may question whether he has the same ceiling as the more fashionable contenders, his Cheltenham form and proven staying power demand respect.
With doubts hovering over several leading candidates and stamina set to play a decisive role, this year’s Brown Advisory looks wide open. The one who jumps cleanly and sees out the trip strongest is likely to emerge as a major force in the staying chase division.