Trainer Richard Hobson remains optimistic about Fugitif’s chances of securing another major victory, particularly with the nine-year-old now enjoying a more favourable handicap rating.
Last season’s December Gold Cup winner made a promising return to action with a fifth-place finish in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham, a race he also placed fourth in last year. While Hobson has yet to confirm whether Fugitif will defend his title at Cheltenham next week or wait for another opportunity, he reports the gelding in fine form.
“We’re undecided whether to target Cheltenham or look towards January 1,” Hobson said. “We’ll confirm plans on Monday.”
Hobson highlighted Fugitif’s challenges in his seasonal debut, where he had to recover from a slow start.
“He was left a bit at the start and had to make up ground, which was tough in such a competitive race. Like many of ours, he probably needed to run,” Hobson explained. “It’s hard to get a horse of his size race-ready for the first time out in such a big race.”
Fugitif won last year’s December Gold Cup off a mark of 151, but after carrying an additional 6lb in subsequent races, he’s now down to 150. This adjustment, combined with a higher mark for rival Il Ridoto, has levelled the playing field.
“We’ve been giving stacks of weight to Il Ridoto every time, but now we’re closer in the ratings, which will help. He’s a big unit, and I’m confident there’s another big race in him soon—whether it’s next week or later in the season.”
Some Scope Targets Rowland Meyrick
Hobson was also pleased with the recent performance of Some Scope, who finished fourth in the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle after being pulled up at Cheltenham in October. The six-year-old, who impressed last season with a double at Catterick and Doncaster followed by a strong second in the Grimthorpe Chase, is now being prepared for the Rowland Meyrick Chase at Wetherby on Boxing Day.
“That was his first proper run of the season, and he blew quite hard after the fast pace,” said Hobson. “It should put him spot on for Boxing Day, and after that, we might look at the Grimthorpe again or possibly another race in between. He’s much better on good ground.”
Both horses remain key players in Hobson’s yard, with big targets on the horizon as the season progresses.