Supreme Novices’ Hurdle Winner Marine Nationale Set for Chasing Debut

In an exciting turn of events, the impressive hurdler Marine Nationale is prepared to embark on his chasing career at Leopardstown over the Christmas period. Trainer Barry Connell hosted a media event at his County Kildare yard, providing updates on his stable star’s progress after a delay due to soft ground conditions.

Originally intended to contest the prestigious Grade One Racing Post Novice Chase, Marine Nationale will begin with a more modest race as he has yet to compete over larger obstacles. Despite this alteration in plans, Connell expressed confidence that all is in place for Leopardstown and emphasized the horse’s exceptional schooling sessions.

“Absolutely. His schooling has been 100 per cent,” said Connell confidently. “We schooled him twice on the grass at the Curragh and he’s a natural.”

The preparation leading up to Marine Nationale’s seasonal return has been promising according to Connell. The final piece of work will be completed over the weekend before setting their sights on Christmas festivities.

A Change in Plans

The original plan was for Marine Nationale to debut in Navan, secure victory in a beginners chase there, then proceed towards competing in the Grade One race during Christmas followed by participation in Irish Arkle later on. However, unfavorable heavy ground conditions led them astray from this path.

Connell explained their decision: “We didn’t want to run him on heavy ground so we had to forfeit the Grade One at Christmas and go for the beginners instead.” He highlighted the necessity of adapting to changing circumstances and drew upon Marine Nationale’s previous successful transition from maiden hurdle to Grade One race as evidence that tackling the Irish Arkle after his beginners chase should not pose a challenge.

Extraordinary Talent

Connell has always held an unwavering belief in Marine Nationale, which was validated by their victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham. From day one, Connell recognized the horse’s remarkable abilities.

“He is a one-off really, he is just an incredible athlete,” expressed Connell with enthusiasm. “From the first day we had him here, everything came easy to him.”

The trainer also commended Marine Nationale’s relaxed temperament, noting it as a significant advantage during races. With such composure, the horse conserves energy for strong finishes.

An Aspiring Journey

O’Connell shared insights into his own journey within racing: “I’ve been a racegoer since I was one or two… Then I bought a few horses and had them in training when I was in my late twenties… I always had it in the back of my head that I might like to try to do something like this.”

Although O’Connell acknowledges making mistakes along the way—such as purchasing unsuitable horses and dealing with inevitable injuries—he remains optimistic about their current crop of young talent. He hopes these promising youngsters will shape racing’s future.

In Conclusion

A sense of anticipation surrounds Marine Nationale’s upcoming debut over fences at Leopardstown during Christmas. Trainer Barry Connell provides assurance that preparations have gone smoothly and speaks highly of his star hurdler turned chaser. With natural ability showcased throughout schooling sessions and an extraordinary athleticism evident from the outset, Marine Nationale is poised to forge a successful career in chasing.