ATTIN

Trainer: Nicky Richards

The horse who can be seen on this year’s front cover, he made an impressive start to his career when winning a Newcastle bumper in April. Despite looking green, he readily pulled clear and marked himself down as a most promising youngster for trainer Nicky Richards. Clearly blessed with plenty of pace, expect to see him campaigned over the minimum trip.

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BAY RUNNER

Trainer: Lizzie Quinlan

Third in an Irish Point in May 2025, the five-year-old defied a lay-off of 313 days when shaping with considerable promise in a bumper at Newcastle on his first start for current connections. The son of Getaway showed a fine attitude and the form was advertised when the winner defied a penalty at Kelso the following month. Lizzie Quinlan endured a really tough season last term and even under ordinary circumstances wouldn’t be a trainer renowned for her record in bumpers, so there is plenty to suggest that he is an above-average performer. Bred to enjoy nice ground, he is one who could be out fairly early.

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CLOSE HOUSE

Trainer: Chris Grant

Third in what is traditionally a strong bumper at Ayr on Scottish Grand National day, he was trained by Andrew Slattery at the time but has since been moved to Chris Grant, by owner Dave Armstrong. Having raced enthusiastically in the hands of Danny McMenamin, he looks open to any amount of improvement following a summer break, and having held an entry at Kelso in mid-September, he is clearly ready to reappear anytime soon.

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KING KUBALA

Trainer: Sandy Thomson

Another nice prospect for the northern circuit, this five-year-old built on his third place finish at Ayr to win at Kelso, following a break of 129 days. Quite keen on debut, the son of Getaway took a big step forward and ran out a taking winner at the Borders venue, marking himself down as one to note in novice hurdles over the minimum trip. He showed a good turn of foot to pull 13 lengths clear.

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LE COLD GREY

Trainer: Paul Nicholls

The first of two to make the Dark Horses list who are trained in Ditcheat by Paul Nicholls, this grey is a half-brother to National Hunt Chase winner Gaillard du Mesnil, so should appreciate having his stamina drawn out over hurdles. Having travelled very well at Lingfield, he again hit the frame at Wincanton and is one to note over 2m4f and beyond.