The Great Yorkshire Handicap Chase is set to be a thunderous contest this Saturday at Doncaster, where 16 runners will take to the start line. Forward Plan, a gelding trained by Anthony Honeyball, is determined to make a bold show after a narrow loss last season. With a bit of redemption in his sights, he aims to capitalize on a reduced weight this time around.
Hot Contenders and Underdogs in the Mix
Among the favorites, The Changing Man stands out as a horse that may finally dance to victory over fences. His recent performance placed him at the forefront, and his trainer Joe Tizzard will be keen to see him break his duck, especially after his runner-up finish in both the Rehearsal Chase and the Silver Cup.
Tightenourbelts also demands respect having been in outstanding form, and he’s chasing a hat-trick. Trained by Emma Lavelle, this horse has impressed with his jumping abilities and is making a significant step up in grade. A battle with the pace-setters is expected as he relishes the challenge.
Detailed Runner Guide
Let’s take a look at each horse entered for the Great Yorkshire Handicap Chase at Doncaster:
Raffle Ticket
This 11-year-old trained by Mel Rowley may have low mileage, but showed he could still have a say after his impressive outing at Aintree in May. However, recent form hasn’t matched that performance.
Arizona Cardinal
At nine years old and trained by Stuart Edmunds, this horse showed great spirit with a victory in the Topham Handicap Chase. Although a bit rusty after his return, he proved better on a challenging cross-country course at Cheltenham.
Tightenourbelts
Emma Lavelle’s eight-year-old has ironed out early issues from last year and impressed recently by winning at Exeter and Ludlow. His current form suggests he has more to offer in events of this caliber.
Forward Plan
This nine-year-old gelding, under Anthony Honeyball’s care, barely missed capturing this race a year ago. With jockey Chad Bament’s weight allowance, he might well be primed for a bold attempt near the front.
The Changing Man
With his recent work displaying potential, this horse is one many have their eyes on. Under Joe Tizzard’s training, he has a legitimate chance to make it to the winner’s enclosure.
Other Runners
The field includes other horses like Young Buster, trained by Fergal O’Brien, who has shown much-improved form and could make things competitive. Sine Nomine might also surprise, though jumping errors have hindered her early season attempts.
Timeform’s Prediction: Changing Times Ahead?
With the race as competitive as ever, Timeform forecasts that it might finally be The Changing Man’s time to open up a new chapter over the fences, although he can expect stiff competition from the likes of Forward Plan and Tightenourbelts, who both have compelling narratives of their own.
Final Thoughts
The Great Yorkshire Handicap Chase offers a field boiling with talent, and this year’s race should see the crowd at Doncaster treated to a thrilling spectacle. From the clattering hooves to the final sprint towards the finish line, the competition embodies the breathtaking dynamism of UK horse racing.
