Warwick Takes Centre Stage
The Wigley Group Classic Chase is the highlight at Warwick.
The 3m5f contest was won by One For Arthur in 2017. Just three months later he gave Scotland based trainer Lucinda Russell and jockey Derek Fox Grand National glory at Aintree. This year, Threeunderthrufive will attempt to give in-form champion trainer Paul Nicholls his fourth victory in the staying handicap.
Last year’s Welsh Grand National hero Iwilldoit, recent Newbury winner Grumpy Charley and popular veteran Lord Du Mesnil are other possible contenders.
Top Irish trainers Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott have also entered horses and could make the trip. The supporting races include two Grade 2 races.
The entries for the Ballymore Leamington Novices’ Hurdle contain some of the most exciting young hurdlers in the country.
Nicholls will attempt to win the 2m5f prize for just the second time – 16 years after the first – with Knowsley Road. Recent hurdles winners Grey Dawning, Givega, Moon Hunter and Twinjets are among those who could line up in opposition.
Landrake and Santonito, both trained by Elliott, could represent Ireland in the contest, which was won in the past by star staying hurdler Inglis Drever and Cheltenham Festival winner The New One.
The eventmaster.co.uk Hampton Novices’ Chase has also attracted some superb entries. Stage Star and Complete Unknown could give Nicholls a third straight victory in the 3m race. The champion trainer has won this prize a total of four times but he could face stiff opposition from Elliott’s possible runners Minella Crooner and The Goffer.