Cheltenham: Key Post-Aintree Stop in Skelton and Nicholls’ Trainers’ Title Battle

The British trainers’ title is up for grabs, with a hefty sum of £210,000 in prize money available on Wednesday. This presents a significant opportunity for Dan Skelton and Paul Nicholls, who are vying for the championship. However, the recent win by I Am Maximus in the Grand National has pushed perennial Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins to the top of the title standings, adding a third-party interest to the competition. Mullins has indicated his intention to clinch the British crown for the first time with his entries at Ayr and the early team in contention for the final afternoon at Sandown on April 27.

British trainers at the April meeting had the luxury of having a chance to win, without seeing Willie Mullins on the racecard. Skelton is currently leading the challenge to Mullins, trailing by £53,000 before racing on Tuesday, with 14-time champion Nicholls further behind by £75,000. Skelton also holds a numerical advantage on Wednesday with seven runners compared to Nicholls’ four and has some apparent stronger chances. Nicky Henderson, who is not involved in the trainers’ title race this time around, has won the race in the past with Whisper and Might Bite.

He remains a key figure to watch for future developments in the competition.