Irish trainer John ‘Shark’ Hanlon is poised to make a dramatic return to the world of horse racing this March. After facing a six-month suspension, Hanlon is eager to steer his horses back onto the track, reconnecting with the world he knows so well. The suspension came about following an incident where he transported a deceased horse in public view using an open trailer, a decision that led to an initial 10-month ban from the sport.
However, Hanlon managed to reduce the length of this suspension through a successful appeal, cutting his ban to six months. Meeting the necessary conditions allowed him to apply for further leniency, enabling him to suspend the final three months of his sentence.
Following a review by the Referrals Committee earlier this month, Hanlon’s licence was reinstated on February 14. Nevertheless, a newly introduced rule in Ireland dictates that horses must be in training for at least 14 days before they can compete. Thus, Hanlon and his team have been preparing eagerly for his official return on March 1.
Adding to the anticipation of his comeback, Hanlon has laid out plans to enter his esteemed horse, Hewick, in the year’s Grand National. This marks a shift in strategy as Hewick, a former King George VI Chase winner, was also entered for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, though Hanlon has decided to focus on the National instead.
“I think we’ll miss the Gold Cup,” Hanlon shared, emphasizing that the Grand National has been the objective for some time. This decision follows recent performance considerations; the handicapper has adjusted Hewick’s weight to 11st 7lb, a turn of events Hanlon regards favorably. Given that the bottom weight in the National could be as low as 10st 10lb, he believes Hewick will be well positioned without the burden of excessive weight.
With an astute trainer’s wisdom, Hanlon has highlighted the condition of the ground as a pivotal factor in their Grand National strategy. “As long as we get good ground, that’s the main thing,” he said, signaling that freshness over facing competitors like Galopin Des Champs is his preferred approach.
For many in the horse racing community, the prospect of Hanlon’s return brings a mix of excitement and intrigue. Known for his straightforward manner and hands-on training approach, John ‘Shark’ Hanlon’s comeback is anticipated to be as spirited as the career he’s built. As March 1 draws near, the thundering of hooves under the guidance of one of Ireland’s seasoned trainers is sure to be a spectacle embraced by fans and competitors alike.
