Connections of Potters Charm are optimistic that the drop back in trip will not be a significant setback as they take a “tactical view” to contest the William Hill Formby Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree on Boxing Day.
The five-year-old burst onto the scene with an 11-length bumper victory at Ffos Las in the spring and has since racked up a hat-trick of wins over hurdles, including two impressive performances at Cheltenham. While Potters Charm’s previous successes have come over two-and-a-half miles, the team has opted against the Challow Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury in favour of the shorter Aintree contest.
Assistant trainer Willy Twiston-Davies explained the decision: “It’s very exciting; we’re dropping back on the trip, and the ground should suit. The Formby looks like an easier race than the Challow, which can be very tough, and history shows that some horses struggle to bounce back after it. Even greats like Denman and Bravemansgame were beaten at Cheltenham after winning the Challow.”
“For us, this race makes more sense tactically. Potters Charm is well-clear on ratings, and the prize money is the same. Hopefully, this will sharpen his jumping as we build toward Cheltenham in the spring. If he’s beaten, it’ll be for reasons other than ability.”
Competitive Field Awaits
Despite Potters Charm’s strong credentials, the field boasts several formidable rivals.
Jonjo and AJ O’Neill’s Roadlesstravelled remains unbeaten and will pose a stiff challenge, while Sam Thomas’s Celtic Dino, also undefeated over hurdles, is targeting a good performance if conditions improve.
“It’s a strong race,” said Thomas. “He prefers better ground, but the forecast looks favourable. This is an important test to see where we fit among the top novices.”
Dan Skelton sends Country Mile, who finished second to Roadlesstravelled at Haydock before an emphatic Cheltenham win. Skelton is optimistic about his chances: “He was excellent at Cheltenham, and I think he’ll benefit from quicker ground. The race should suit his running style, and I’m eager to see how he measures up in this Grade One.”
Other contenders include Stuart Edmunds’s Miami Magic and Olly Murphy’s Junker d’Allier, both unbeaten over hurdles, while Warren Greatrex’s outsider Good And Clever completes the line-up.
A Tactical Play
With Cheltenham’s spring festival in sight, Potters Charm’s connections hope their strategy will pay off as the talented gelding seeks to cement his place among the season’s leading novices. A strong showing at Aintree could prove the perfect stepping stone for future Grade One glory.