Dan Skelton's Grey Dawning is gearing up to advance his career over fences as he readies himself for the Turners Novices’ Chase at the highly anticipated Cheltenham Festival. The seven-year-old has had a fruitful season thus far, securing his second victory over fences by triumphing over Gaillard Du Mesnil in a Haydock graduation chase, dominating by a significant margin of nine-and-a-half lengths.
In December at Cheltenham, Grey Dawning claimed second place behind Ginny’s Destiny in a novice event, then went on to secure a commanding 14-length win in the Hampton Novices’ Chase at Warwick. The upcoming duel between Grey Dawning and Ginny’s Destiny is anticipated to be intense, with Skelton expressing confidence in his contender without underestimating the competition.
Ginny’s Destiny, as noted by Skelton, continued his winning streak after their last encounter by clinching victory in the Timeform Novices’ Handicap Chase at Cheltenham. His track record boasts three wins out of four runs over fences, showcasing his prowess and familiarity with the course.
Iroko, trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, is set to represent the stable at Cheltenham after a remarkable recovery from an injury that initially threatened to sideline him for the season. The six-year-old, last seen triumphing in his sole chasing start at Warwick in November, is primed for a strong showing at the festival, benefitting from his past success on the New course.
Willie Mullins brings two contenders to the table, with Facile Vega leading the charge following his commendable third-place finish in the Irish Arkle. Sharjah, also hailing from Mullins' stable, aims to make an impact under the guidance of amateur jockey Patrick Mullins. Gordon Elliott's Zanahiyr and Gavin Cromwell’s Letsbeclearaboutit add to the Irish challenge, while Venetia Williams and Jamie Snowden prepare Djelo and Colonel Harry, respectively, for the competition.
The field of 11 is completed by Gary Moore’s Le Patron and David Pipe’s Jamaico, promising an exciting and competitive Turners Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.