Champion National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls tells H&H he has the most youngsters he’s ever had in his yard this season. With around 120 horses at his stables in Ditcheat, Somerset, Paul has a host of fresh equine faces, and of course many familiar names for you to keep an eye on.
Now the jumps season is fully underway, Paul exclusively gives H&H readers three horses from his yard to follow this year.
Present Man
“He’s a real dark horse,” says Paul.
“He’s a son of Presenting and had one run in an Irish point-to-point in the spring where he came second. He’s due to run in a bumper [National Hunt Flat race] soon then go hurdling, but ultimately he’ll be aimed at chasing as he’s a lovely big scopey horse.”
Saphir Du Rheu
“He’s a lovely big five-year-old who had a good season over hurdles last year winning three times, including the Welsh Champion Hurdle,” says Paul.
“He’ll go novice chasing now and could potentially be a smart staying chaser of the future. He loves his grub.”
Emerging Talent
“By Golan, he won a bumper in Ireland last year and finished second in his first run over hurdles last month,” says Paul.
“He ran very green but he showed plenty of pace and is one for the future. He’s got a lovely temperament and is a pleasure to have around the yard.”
H&H went for an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to champion trainer Paul Nicholls’ Somerset yard — don’t miss the National Hunt Special, out tomorrow (6 November) for the full interview.
Also in the National Hunt special: H&H meets top jockey Jason Maguire, learn more about Champion Chase winner Sire De Grugy, find out what famous ex-racehorses are up to in retirement and we tell you what not to miss this season. Plus introducing our new National Hunt columnist, jockey Richard Johnson. Don’t miss it!
