Intense Raffles to Make Hurdles Return at Navan

Intense Raffles, the six-year-old grey and second-favourite for the Grand National, is set to return to action over hurdles in the Listed Bective Stud, Tea Rooms & Apartments Handicap Hurdle at Navan on Saturday. With regular riders Daryl Jacob and J J Slevin sidelined due to injury, Bryony Frost will take the reins.

Trained by Thomas Gibney and owned by Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, Intense Raffles was unbeaten in his three starts on Irish turf last season. His crowning achievement came in the Irish Grand National, where he triumphed under Slevin following two prior victories at Fairyhouse with Jacob.

Frost, currently based in France as Munir and Souede’s retained rider, will step in for this weekend’s race. She plans to familiarize herself with the horse on Friday ahead of Saturday's three-mile-and-a-furlong test.

Anthony Bromley, racing manager for the owners, commented:

“Tom is very happy with the horse and feels he’s ready to get started. While a mark of 141 may not make things easy over hurdles, we’re excited to see how he performs.”

“Bryony is an excellent substitute and is looking forward to the ride. Once Daryl is fit, he’ll resume his position as the number one retained rider for England and Ireland.”

The Grand National at Aintree in April remains the ultimate goal for Intense Raffles, whose jumping ability has been a significant asset in both Ireland and during his earlier career in France.

Bromley added:

“Aintree is the main aim, but this will allow us to see how he fares over smaller obstacles. French hurdles are very different, so this will be a new experience for him.”

“Jumping is his greatest strength, and while it feels like we’re negating that by hurdling, this run will provide valuable insights as we map out his season.”