Adam Nicol Eyes Big Hurdles Success for Wise Eagle

Trainer Adam Nicol is optimistic about Wise Eagle’s future over hurdles after the seasoned seven-year-old cruised to a 23-length victory in a maiden hurdle at Musselburgh last week. The win marked the gelding’s return to jumping after a four-year hiatus, during which he enjoyed considerable success on the Flat.

Previously second in a juvenile hurdle at Catterick in 2020, Wise Eagle has since secured 11 Flat victories, but Nicol believes the National Hunt sphere now holds greater potential for his versatile charge.

Reflecting on the decision to return to hurdles, Nicol explained:

“He’s become a bit too clever for the Flat. He’s not quite up to Group class and found it tough in heritage handicaps, giving weight all around. Musselburgh suits him, and we thought a maiden hurdle there was worth a go—and he delivered.”

The trainer is now strategising Wise Eagle’s next steps, likely targeting a lucrative handicap hurdle:

“We’ll see what mark the handicapper gives us and decide whether to give him a break or one more run under a penalty in a novice hurdle. His jumping was fantastic for a horse with just one prior hurdle start—he was looking for the next hurdle after clearing the first.”

While Nicol sees hurdles as the gelding’s primary future, he doesn’t rule out the possibility of tackling fences, adding:

“He’s not big, but he’s slick over hurdles and doesn’t waste time in the air. Given his class and toughness from the Flat, I think there’s a good pot waiting for him in a handicap hurdle.”

With his impressive comeback performance, Wise Eagle looks poised for a successful National Hunt campaign in 2024.