Insights from Those Involved in Lawlor’s of Naas Novice Hurdle
Ile Atlantique’s Cheltenham Festival Credentials Face Acid Test
As the rearranged Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle approaches, Ile Atlantique finds himself at the center of attention, leading a four-strong team from trainer Willie Mullins. Originally scheduled for Sunday but postponed due to fog, this Grade One event presents an opportunity for Mullins to secure his record-extending ninth win in the contest.
Mullins’ stable jockey Paul Townend has chosen to partner with Ile Atlantique after their impressive 19-length victory on hurdles debut at Gowran Park. The six-year-old brings solid bumper form into the race, having narrowly lost out to chief market rival Firefox in a previous encounter. However, everyone involved acknowledges that this race represents a significant step up in class for Ile Atlantique on only his second start over obstacles.
Sean Graham, racing manager for owner Tony Bloom, recognizes the challenge ahead: “He’s going from winning a maiden hurdle to a Grade One and it’s a big ask… You don’t know how much improvement a horse can find after winning a maiden hurdle, but then are they good enough to win a Grade One?”
The success of Ile Atlantique’s bumper performances gives hope that he can compete at this level. Yet until he proves himself on Friday’s race and shows consistency against top horses like those trained by Mullins, there will always be an element of uncertainty about his Cheltenham prospects.
This upcoming contest not only marks an increase in grade for Ile Atlantique but also sees him venture beyond two miles for the first time in Ireland. Despite this new distance challenge, bookmakers have already given him single-figure odds for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, indicating that it could be his most likely target if he performs well.
Graham sheds light on the decision: “We always felt on his bumper form he would need further… The Ballymore is in his stretch. That is not to say next year he won’t get three miles or further over fences in the future.”
Joining Ile Atlantique from Closutton are fellow stablemates Chapeau De Soleil, Lecky Watson, and Readin Tommy Wrong. These horses provide a strong supporting team for Mullins as he aims to continue his successful streak at this event.
In contrast to Mullins’ dominance, trainer Gordon Elliott has made his mark by winning four of the last seven runnings. With past winners such as Death Duty, Battleoverdoyen, Envoi Allen, and Ginto under his belt, Elliott now puts forward Firefox as his main contender this time around.
This formidable field promises an exciting contest filled with uncertainty and surprises. As the highly-anticipated Lawlor’s Of Naas Novice Hurdle approaches its rearranged date, all eyes will be on Ile Atlantique’s performance to determine whether Cheltenham glory awaits him.