Insights from those closely involved with the Cleeve Hurdle race

Cheltenham’s McCoy Contractors Cleeve Hurdle Welcomes Noble Yeats’ Return

In a surprising move, Emmet Mullins has decided to test Noble Yeats’ hurdling skills in the prestigious McCoy Contractors Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham. This decision is part of the horse’s preparation for the upcoming Grand National.

Last season was filled with demanding races for this nine-year-old Aintree champion. However, this winter he has only appeared once on the track, facing tough competition from Sa Majeste at Limerick during Christmas time.

Interestingly enough, that was only Noble Yeats’ second run over hurdles. Now he returns to a more suitable distance, accompanied by jockey Harry Cobden as Sean Bowen remains injured.

“Emmet Mullins always comes up with unconventional strategies,” said owner Robert Waley-Cohen about his trainer. “We need a few outings to get him ready for the Grand National.”

Reflecting on Noble Yeat’s recent performance at Limerick on heavy ground, Waley-Cohen believes that Saturday’s conditions will be more favorable for his horse. He adds that Sa Majeste proved to be an impressive opponent but expects Noble Yeats to shine on a better track.

With Harry Cobden as the replacement jockey, Waley-Cohen explains that it is due to his availability, while expressing sympathy for Sean Bowen’s injury and praising both riders’ skills.

Paisley Park Targets Fourth Victory in Grade Two Event

The upcoming McCoy Contractors Cleeve Hurdle boasts a strong field of seven contenders, including Paisley Park from Emma Lavelle’s stable. The 12-year-old veteran aims to secure an impressive fourth win in this Grade Two event.

Despite his age, Paisley Park has demonstrated exceptional form this season. He put up a valiant fight against tough competition in Newbury’s Long Distance Hurdle and Ascot’s Grade One Long Walk last month. Lavelle remains optimistic about her horse’s chances and believes he deserves another victory for his remarkable career.

“He continues to amaze us with his consistency,” said Lavelle when discussing Paisley Park. “We are excited about competing at this level with such an extraordinary horse.”

Dashel Drasher Aims for Repeat Success as Dark Horse

Last year, French raider Gold Tweet ended Paisley Park’s winning streak in the same race. Dashel Drasher secured second place behind Gold Tweet, then went on to impress at the Cheltenham Festival by finishing second again in the Stayers’ Hurdle. This season, Jeremy Scott’s admirable veteran aims for success once more after proven quality performances at Newbury and Ascot.

Veterans Champ and Botox Has Look to Regain Winning Form

Two more seasoned competitors, Champ and Botox Has, are also in the mix for the McCoy Contractors Cleeve Hurdle. Despite their age, both horses have shown resilience and competitiveness. While Nicky Henderson’s Champ finished fourth behind fellow veterans in the Long Walk last time out, Botox Has seeks to regain his earlier form after a sixth-place finish at Ascot.

Strong Leader Adds Intrigue as Newcomer

Rounding up the field is Olly Murphy’s Strong Leader. This newcomer seeks to make an impact with his three miles hurdle run and add some unexpected twists to an already captivating race.