Connell leaning towards barriers for top horse Marine Nationale at Supreme Championship
Marine Nationale Set to Make the Jump to Fences
The undefeated Marine Nationale is gearing up for a return to training and owner-trainer Barry Connell is leaning towards a switch from hurdling to chasing. The five-time winner impressed with a stunning victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival earlier this year.
After enjoying a well-deserved summer break, Connell is now considering his options for the upcoming campaign. While he could have chased Champion Hurdle glory, he believes that Marine Nationale’s exceptional jumping ability makes him better suited for fences.
“He’s coming back at the end of the week and looks fantastic after having an extended break,” said Connell. “Last summer was intense for him, so we decided on giving him ample rest. At this point, it seems more likely that we’ll focus on chasing rather than staying hurdling.”
The Arkle Trophy currently stands as their preferred target: “Marine Nationale has shown such brilliance over fences that it only seems natural to pursue this path. He’s nearly flawless when it comes to jumping obstacles.”
Connell has already mapped out a potential campaign: “We’re looking at starting off with a beginners chase in early November, followed by Leopardstown at Christmas, then heading down south for Dublin Racing Festival and finally aiming for Cheltenham.”
Good Land Aims High Over Fences
In addition to Marine National, another talented horse under Connell’s ownership holds great promise – Good Land made an impression by winning a Grade One novice hurdle during last season’s Dublin Racing Festival before placing fourth in Ballymore at Cheltenham.
Connell believes Good Land didn’t showcase his full potential at Cheltenham and hopes that he can reach greater heights over fences. “Good Land has already started his training for chasing, with a possible beginners chase in October followed by the Drinmore at Fairyhouse.”
Connell is excited about Good Land’s potential: “Despite his okay performance at Cheltenham, we knew something was off when we brought him home. His energy levels were low and his blood tests showed abnormalities. We’re optimistic that this wasn’t his true running and look forward to seeing what he can achieve over two-and-a-half miles.”