Nicky Richards is hopeful that Famous Bridge can regain his winning form as he targets a second victory in Saturday’s Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase at Haydock. The nine-year-old secured two notable wins in 2023, including the prestigious race at Haydock, but came third when attempting to defend his title last year.
Famous Bridge has struggled this autumn, finishing behind the leaders over hurdles at Ayr and Haydock, yet his previous success in this event gives trainers confidence in a potential comeback. Richards remarked, “He’s in very good shape and showing positive signs at home. I hope the ground turns soft as he prefers that condition; the recent ground wasn’t ideal for him.”
Richards added, “I believe he will put in a strong, competitive performance. He’s a seasoned campaigner and currently in better condition than at any point this year. He enjoys this track, the handicap has been favorable, and he’s looking healthy and lively, so we’re optimistic for Saturday.”
Four weeks ago, Famous Bridge placed seventh in the undercard of the Betfair Chase, reigniting his competition with Top of the Bill and Saladin Son, who finished first and second. Top of the Bill is trained by Nigel and Willie Twiston-Davies, with Willie commenting, “We don’t want to change the winning approach. Although the Welsh National was an option, Haydock offers a strong prize, and he seems well placed to win.”
Willie Twiston-Davies continued, “The bookmakers might know more, but to me, he looks like a great value bet given his last performance. He recovered well and looks in perfect condition, so we anticipate another strong run.”
In other news, the Betfred ‘The Classic Bookmaker’ Meles Beginner’s Hurdle features Harry Durham’s Jackie Hobbs as the favorite. The five-year-old, a dual bumper winner last season with a less satisfying Grade 2 finish at Aintree, won her hurdles debut at Newbury and now aims for a prestigious black-type win.
Fehili said, “She performed well at Newbury, and everything has been positive since. Harry is very pleased with her preparation, so we’re heading to Newbury with high hopes. Ground conditions will be key, but that’s uncertain for all participants.”
Fehili added, “The Aintree course was likely too quick for her and at season’s end she was probably fatigued. Overall, I was pleased with her Newbury run and am eager to see how things go at Haydock.”
Richards will also have a runner in this race, La Zvida, who struggled at Aintree in spring but has since placed second twice over hurdles this season. Richards noted, “Many fillies here have similar records, winning novice hurdles and then stepping up to black-type events. La Zvida showed improvement at Kelso and Sedgefield, jumping smoothly to win well.”
Richards continued, “Kelso’s race seemed to suit her, and she is still developing. If needed, we might try her in handicaps, but the goal is to keep her in black-type races, with this race being the first step.”
Fan Take: This lineup highlights the competitive spirit and strategy involved in high-level jump racing, showcasing seasoned horses like Famous Bridge alongside promising young talent. Fans should watch closely, as performances here might signal emerging stars and shifting dynamics in the sport’s future.
