Golden Ace Aims for Grade 1 Success Next Season After Dazzling Cheltenham Return

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The powerful mare conditions on the fast side for last month’s Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle win. She displayed her class by effortlessly taking the lead at the bottom of the hill and then pulling ahead after a gentle nudge from jockey Lorcan Williams. Owner Ian Gosden, a long-time participant in the sport, expressed initial apprehension about the 1-3 shot heading to Cheltenham but was ultimately thrilled with the performance. The mare is on course to become his most successful horse, surpassing the 2009 Midlands National winner Russian Trigger.

Gosden is excited about the future and anticipates big successes next season, despite acknowledging the considerable financial investment owning horses entails. This victory marked a career-best season for jockey Williams, who has maintained an impressive 26 per cent strike-rate when riding for the Scott stable. Despite believing that the mare excels on softer ground, Williams praised her remarkable abilities and identified areas for improvement, particularly in her jumping. The eight-year-old mare, under the guidance of jockey Charlie Deutsch, surged ahead to clinch the victory with odds of 6-5, adding to her previous success at the track a year ago.

Trainer Rowley commended the mare’s spirit and acknowledged the challenges posed by the ground conditions. Despite this, he remains optimistic about her potential for future improvement and success. Meanwhile, trainer Dan Skelton narrowly missed out on securing a victory with Sacre Coeur and Notnowlinda pocketing respectable sums. Skelton’s total winnings now stand at £2,843,958, trailing £30,735 behind Mullins.

Trainer Anthony Honeyball experienced his first victory at the track since 2018, as the mare, having missed a shot at Grade 2 level at Aintree due to ground conditions, secured a clear win under Jonathan Burke. Overall, the recent race events have provided valuable insights and learning opportunities for the trainers, owners, and jockeys involved, as they strive to improve their horses and achieve success in future competitions.