Jubilee Express is set to focus once again on the Welsh Grand National after triumphing in the major race trial at Chepstow this past Saturday. The eight-year-old, trained by Sam Thomas, narrowly missed victory in the 2024 Welsh National, finishing second by just a length and a half after completing the almost three-mile, seven-furlong race.
Returning to Chepstow for the 2025 race trial, Jubilee Express competed over nearly three miles and secured a win as a 13-2 favorite, finishing two and a half lengths ahead of Collector’s Item, with Lorcan Williams riding. Thomas expressed great satisfaction with the performance, noting that Jubilee Express finished more than 32 lengths ahead of the third-place contender. He added, “We couldn’t be happier and hope to see many more successes in the future.”
Following this win, Jubilee Express will receive a £4 penalty, and Thomas is eager to see his horse’s rating updated before the highlight race at Chepstow on December 27th. Thomas remarked, “I’m sure he will get a four-pound penalty for that, and his new rating will be announced Tuesday and confirmed next weekend. It will be interesting to see how he fits into the handicap once others have made their plans.”
Regarding race conditions, Thomas mentioned that Jubilee Express prefers not to run on dry ground, as the horse is a reliable jumper and excels in longer distance chases. Williams, who rode Jubilee Express for the first time, praised the horse’s jumping ability, with Thomas agreeing that the horse is careful and attentive at fences, a crucial trait for endurance races.
Fan Take: This update is thrilling for horse racing enthusiasts because Jubilee Express has proven itself as a formidable contender in endurance races, adding excitement and competition to the Welsh Grand National. The horse’s consistent performance and adaptability could elevate the quality of the sport and inspire more engaging long-distance races in the future.
