Harry Fry Hails Gidleigh Park as His Most Exciting Novice Chaser Yet

Harry Fry is brimming with anticipation ahead of Gidleigh Park's seasonal debut in the Copybet Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase at Ascot on Friday, describing the six-year-old as one of the most exciting novice chase prospects he has ever trained.  

Gidleigh Park impressed early in his career, winning his first three starts over hurdles, including a Grade Two triumph at Cheltenham. However, his sixth-place finish in the Albert Bartlett at the Festival left Fry questioning his decision to run the gelding on stamina-testing soft ground.  

“We’ve always believed Gidleigh Park’s future lies over fences, and his schooling at home has been fantastic,” Fry told Grosvenor Sport. “The dry autumn delayed his return, but with the rain finally arriving, we’re eager to get him started at Ascot.”  

The trainer acknowledged the decision to drop Gidleigh Park back to two-and-a-quarter miles for his chase debut, contrasting it with the three-mile test of the Albert Bartlett. “This is a horse with serious speed, and I’m excited to see him showcase that on Friday. While his ideal trip may eventually be around two-and-a-half miles, he has the versatility to adapt as we shape his season.”  

Fry added: “Right now, I believe Gidleigh Park is as exciting a novice chaser as we’ve ever had. He gives us so much to look forward to, and we’re optimistic he’ll deliver on his potential.”  

The five-runner field at Ascot presents a tough challenge, with Charlie Longsdon’s Rare Edition, who has already secured a win over fences, among the contenders. However, Fry remains confident that Gidleigh Park has the tools to shine as his chasing journey begins.