Welcome to Kelso Racecourse for bet365 Morebattle Hurdle Day, the most valuable programme in our calendar with prize funds totalling £355,000.
There have only been five dual winners of the Morebattle Hurdle since Donna Mia scored for the second time in 1937, the others being Bahadur (1969 / 70), Jinxy Jack (1990 / 91 / 92 / 93), Cyrus Darius (2017 / 18), and Cracking Rhapsody (2024 / 25). Jinxy Jack’s four victories were achieved when the race was staged as a weight-for-age race and, while Cracking Rhapsody has some way to go to make it four in a row, we are delighted that he returns to Kelso today to attempt the hat-trick. He is a very special horse and we wish his owners John & Sheila a fantastic day
We’d like to thank the connections of all today’s runners. They have travelled from far and near and with fields of such formidable quality, the competition will be stiff, the winners fully deserving of their prizes. We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable afternoon. Thank you for choosing to run your horses at Kelso and to share your day with us
Having sponsored the day since 2021, bet365 have helped to transform the profile of this fixture which now attracts ITV coverage on a regular basis The bet365 Morebattle Hurdle has become the most valuable hurdle race in Scotland and we are hugely appreciative of the support of the sponsors, as well as for the dedicated professionalism of all those that help us to stage racing here at Kelso
Finally, we’d like to thank all the racegoers who are here today You bring the friendly atmosphere for which Kelso is so well known and, together with the horses, you light up our day Have a fabulous afternoon and, when you return next year, please bring two friends!
Jonathan Garratt
Managing Director, Kelso Races Ltd
THE DIRECTORS
Mark Hunter
Jonathan Garratt
Jane Millar
Robert Miller-Bakewell
Tocky McKie
Colin Dempster
Robert Hunter
Simon Landale
Saturday 28th February 2026
Stewards
ADRIAN SHARPE (Chief Steward)
AMANDA HAMMERSLEY (Stewards’ Panel Chair)
LYNDSAY GLYNN, ADRIAN SMITH, LAUREN THOMSON
Starters JASON CALLAGHAN, RYAN COLLEY
Judge NICHOLAS HARGREAVE
Clerk of the Scales MICHAEL HAMILTON
Handicapper CHRIS NASH
Veterinary Officer ARTHUR KIDD
Commentator DARREN OWEN
Raceday Announcer ROBERT HOGARTH
Medical Officers
Veterinary Surgeons
DR MAUDE DONKERS DR JOEL BARKER DR FIONA STRUTHERS
DR SAM FOSTER, DR CLAIRE MCLEAN, DR VIVIEN TUT, DR ANNA O’DONOGHUE, DR HEATHER KIRKLAND
MR EDWARD CHINN, B.VET.MED, CERT.E.P., M.R.C.V.S.,
Derek Fox J O Two Black Labs Lucinda Russell, Kinross T B J.R. Curran Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Wins over fences have come in small fields, but he does have some good efforts to his name in big-field handicapsandwasn’tdisgracedwheneighthintheWelshNationalatChepstowlasttime.Respected.TFRHHHII BHA139
colour of horse: b=bay br=brown, ch=chestnut, gr=grey
How to Bet
1. Select your horse and note its name and racecard number
2. Choose your bet – ‘To win’ or ‘each-way’ are the two most common types:
• ‘To win’ is for your horse to come first
• ‘Each-way’ is when you place two bets in one: one for your horse to come first, the other for it to be placed. Therefore £2 each-way = £4 total bet.
• What qualifies as a ‘place’ depends on the number of runners: between two and four runners - first place only; between five and seven runners - first and second place; eight runners and over - first three places; 16 runners and over (handicaps only) - first four places
• The place part of the bet will be paid out at a fraction of the odds, usually a quarter or a fifth - this varies depending on the bookmaker, so check if you are unsure!
3. Decide the amount, also known as the stake that you are comfortable to bet
4. Choose your outlet and place your bet e.g. “£2 win on number three” or “£2 each-way on number six”.
5. If your horse has won, wait to hear “weighed in” over the public address system and then go and collect any winnings!
6. Got so swept up you forgot to collect your cash? There are details of how to collect winning slips after the raceday on our terms and conditions page near the back of the racecard.
Please gamble responsibly For more information visit www.gambleaware.co.uk
Official BHA rating
Br Breeding O Owner B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
THE bet365 HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE)
for five yrs old and upwards, x Total prize fund £20000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £8078, 2nd £4038, 3rd £2020, 4th £1010, 5th £504. (Penalty Value £10562)
Leading course trainer (20-25): A M Thomson (29 wins from 188 runners, 15%) runs AEROS LUCK
Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): L Russell & M Scudamore (7 wins from 36 runners, 19%) run CHAPEL GREEN & HOMBRE DE GUERRA
Longest Traveller: BYTHESAMETOKEN trained by R O’Sullivan, Ireland
Br Breeding O Owner
1
B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
DOYEN DU BAR (IRE)
(43)121-323 C D
10 12-1
Br B g Doyen (IRE) - Hollygrove Native (IRE) Danny McMenamin J
O Mr Eric A. Elliott Nicky Richards, Greystoke T
B Paul Gibbons Tote, Equine Products Ltd (Equine Nutrition) S
Br B g Toronado (IRE) - Abbronzatissima (IRE) Gavin Sheehan J
O Torneo Syndicate Jamie Snowden, Lambourn T
B S.A.S. I.E.I & Percy Holding APS BetVictor S
TIMEFORM VIEW Took well to chasing last season when a dual 2m scorer and he’s continued on the up, runner-up for the third time this term whenbeatenjustaheadin2mWindsorhandicapchaselastmonth.Up4lbbutanotherboldshowingisonthecards TFRHHHHH BHA129
HOMBRE DE GUERRA (IRE)
(83) 0/211-40 8 11-11
Br B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Lindy Lou Derek Fox J
O Mrs I. Hodge Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
B A. H. B. Hodge Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Made a seamless transition to fences last season, bagging back-to-back 2m Ayr handicaps Failed to build on an encouraging return when beatingonlyoneoverC&DinDecemberonhisfinalrunforNickAlexanderbutnoforlornhopestartingoutforin-formyardafterabreak TFRHHHII BHA127
BYTHESAMETOKEN
(IRE)
(14)3443-13 D 12 11-10
Br B g Fame And Glory - Moscow Mo Chuisle (IRE) Sean Bowen J
O Downtown Syndicate Ross O’Sullivan, Ireland T
B K. Mortell
TIMEFORM VIEW Irish veteran who made a successful return from 13 months off at Listowel in September and advanced that form after another lay-offwhenthirdof11in2m4fHaydockhandicapchasetwoweeksago Canmakehispresencefeltagaineased1lb TFRHHHII BHA126
AEROS LUCK (IRE)
(27) 605622
7 11-10
Br B g My Dream Boat (IRE) - Sapere Aude (IRE) William Maggs (5) J
O Mr Raymond Anderson Green Sandy Thomson, Greenlaw T
B M.G. Ronayne
TIMEFORM VIEW A fairly useful 2m chase winner for Gavin Cromwell last season. Easily his best effort from four runs for his current yard when second of 5 in 2m Musselburgh handicap 27 days ago Not out of things if building on that here. TFRHHHII BHA126
BLEU D’ENFER (FR)
(28) P1-0504
8 11-9
Br Gr g Turgeon (USA) - Quesotho Royale (FR) Brian Hughes J
O Mr J. Fyffe Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T
B Mr F. Duvivier & Mr G. Defontaine JF Kegs (Scotland) Ltd, Bluegrass Horse Feeds S
O Border Caravans Ltd Tristan Davidson, Carlisle T
B SCEA Haras Des Evees & Mr Daniel Cherdo
TIMEFORM VIEW Capitalised on a reduced mark when gamely resuming winning ways (first-time tongue tie) for his new stable in 9-runner handicapchaseatMusselburgh(20.3f,goodtosoft)lastmonth.Backup4lbbutthisC&Dscorercan’tbediscounted. TFRHHHII BHA119
CHAPEL GREEN (IRE)
(27) 045-1P5 C
9 11-0
Br B g Dylan Thomas (IRE) - The Coolest Cat (IRE) Alan Doyle (3) J
O The Kestrel Partnership Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
DECLARED RUNNERS 8 2025: GALLIC GEORDIE 12 10 7 Benjamin Macey 17-2 (Samuel Drinkwater) 6 ran Visor worn first time by No 8. Tongue Strap worn by No 3, 4, 6, 7. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No 5. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 4, 6, 7.
Probable S.P’s: 7-2 Torneo (FR), 5-1 Doyen du Bar (IRE), Aeros Luck (IRE), 7-1 Bythesametoken (IRE), Bleu d’Enfer (FR), 17-2 Breizh River (FR), 16-1 Hombre de Guerra (IRE), Chapel Green (IRE)
None of these can be ruled out but the vote goes to TORNEO who rates just the pick of the weights on the back of an excellent Windsor second and can gain a deserved first success of the current campaign. Doyen Du Bar seems sure to go well in his own bid for a first victory of the season now reverted in trip, while Bleu D’Enfer is weighted to go well and both Hombre De Guerra and Chapel Green shouldn’t be underestimated with their yard back among the winners.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
TRAINER & JOCKEY FORM
My Activity Keep
Deposit Limits
Time Out Take
THE bet365 PREMIER STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (GBB RACE)
for five yrs old and upwards x Total prize fund £60000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £26148, 2nd £10734, 3rd £5370, 4th £2682. (Penalty Value £34170)
Leading course trainer (20-25): D McCain (18 wins from 103 runners, 17%) runs MINELLA DRAMA Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): D Skelton (11 wins from 71 runners, 15%) runs PROTEKTORAT Longest Traveller: STOLEN SILVER trained by G Nicholls, Kingston Lisle, 357 miles
Br Breeding O Owner B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
1
MINELLA DRAMA (IRE)(43)
P0P-3P4 C
11 11-8
Br B g Flemensfirth (USA) - Midsummer Drama (IRE) Brian Hughes J O Green Day Racing Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T
B R. McCarthy Bluegrass Horse Feeds S
TIMEFORM VIEW Successful in last season’s Grade 2 Old Roan handicap chase at Aintree on return. Bounced back to form when third in this year’s renewal but again failed to build on that since. Seems best fresh nowadays. TFRHHHII BHA143
2 AIN’T
THAT A SHAME (IRE)
Br B g Jeremy (USA) - Castletown Girl
(686)10/0P16/-D 12 11-2
Jack Andrews J O Eventmasters Racing Tom Ellis, Rugby T B Sunnyhill Stud Eventmasters Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Smart chaser at best but not seen since finishing sixth in 2024 Grand National at Aintree (subsequently sold out of Henry de Bromhead’s stable for £40,000). TFRHHHII BHA144
PROTEKTORAT (FR)
(41) 2142-31
11 11-2
Br B g Saint des Saints (FR) - Protektion (FR) Harry Skelton J
O SirAFergusonGMasonLHalesTheLateJHales Dan Skelton, Alcester T
B Mr Guy Cherel & Mme Isabelle Pacault Morson Group S
TIMEFORM VIEW High-class chaser who won the Fleur De Lys Chase at Windsor for the second successive year 6 weeks ago, once again jumping superbly in front Surprise if he came off the bridle in this company TFRHHHHH BHA165
4 STOLEN SILVER (FR)
(56) 0/P64-0P
11 11-2
Br Gr g Lord du Sud (FR) - Change Partner (FR) Miss Olive Nicholls J
O Ms Georgina Nicholls Georgina Nicholls, Kingston Lisle T
B S.C. Snig Elevage Georgina Nicholls S
TIMEFORM VIEW Very smart chaser at his best but lost his way for Sam Thomas last season and well beaten both outings over hurdles for this stable. TFRHIIII BHA145
DECLARED RUNNERS 4 2025: GREY DAWNING (IRE) 8 11 5 Harry Skelton 5-6 (Dan Skelton) 4 ran
Tongue Strap worn by No 1, 3, 4.
Probable S.P’s: 1-9 Protektorat (FR), 14-1 Ain’t That A Shame (IRE), 18-1 Minella Drama (IRE), 100-1 Stolen Silver (FR)
Impossible to oppose the high-class PROTEKTORAT up against 3 veterans who are past their prime.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
THE bet365 PREMIER NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE)
for novice four yrs old and upwards x Total prize fund £80000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £34864, 2nd £14312, 3rd £7160, 4th £3576, 5th £1792, 6th £896. (Penalty Value £45560)
Leading course trainer (20-25): L Russell & M Scudamore (13 wins from 66 runners, 20%) run CABALLO DE GUERRA Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): D Skelton (11 wins from 71 runners, 15%) runs LE BEAU MADRIK Longest Traveller: WEST HILL VERDE trained by S Mullins, Amesbury, 370 miles
1
LE BEAU MADRIK (FR)(32) 2-211
2
5 11-8
Br Gr g Beaumec de Houelle (FR) - Boma Has (FR) Harry Skelton J
O Mr Alan Harte Dan Skelton, Alcester T
B Emmanuel-Julien Leclerc Ladbrokes, The Air Ambulance Service (Warks & Northants) S
TIMEFORM VIEW Runner-upbothbumpersandhaslookedausefulprospectwhenwinningmaiden/noviceeventsatNewcastle since switching to hurdles Unlikely to give up his unbeaten record over hurdles without a fight
CABALLO DE GUERRA (IRE)(42) 30-1444 C5 11-5
Br Br g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Lindy Lou Derek Fox J
O Mr A.H.B Hodge & Mrs H Cheape Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
Br Ch g Castle du Berlais (FR) - Une d’Oudairies (FR) Gavin Sheehan J
O Sheep As A Lamb Syndicate Jamie Snowden, Lambourn T
B CTE Michel De Gigou BetVictor S
TIMEFORM VIEW Point/bumper winner who has struck twice over hurdles, seeing off the reopposing Red Oak by 1 1/4 lengths at Catterick (19f, good to soft) for latter win 38 days ago This demands more but he’s going the right way. TFRHHHII BHA124 5 MONTEMARES (GB)(61)114
Br Br g Order of St George (IRE) - Saintly Lady (IRE) J
O Bective Stud Olly Murphy, Wilmcote T
B Tom Devereux
TIMEFORM VIEW
Br Breeding O Owner
B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
9
THE LAST CLOUD (IRE)
(35)111433 BF 6 11-5
Br Gr g Cloudings (IRE) - Lady Lucarno
O Mr B Hague, Mrs W Duffus & Partner
10
Brian Hughes J
Patrick Neville, Leyburn T
B Mr & Mrs James Hannon Sinclair’s of Rhynie Limited S
TIMEFORM VIEW Improved to land hat-trick in 2m maiden/handicaps at Perth in the first half of the season and better form when reaching the frame 3 times in Graded novices at up to 3m since. In the mix again. TFRHHHII BHA131
DECLARED RUNNERS 11 2025: JET TO VEGAS (IRE) 6 11 5 Derek Fox 16-1 (Lucinda Russell) 9 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 11.
Probable S.P’s: 15-8 Starmount (IRE), 5-1 Le Beau Madrik (FR), 13-2 Montemares (GB), 10-1 Kosac d’Oudairies (FR), Lord Byron (IRE), 12-1 The Last Cloud (IRE), 18-1 Gaelic Rover (IRE), 25-1 Red Oak (IRE), 50-1 West Hill Verde (FR), 100-1 Caballo de Guerra (IRE)
STARMOUNT impressed when easily dispatching recent course scorer Kaka’s Cousin at Wetherby last month and is narrowly preferred to Dan Skelton’s Le Beau Madrik, who is 2-2 over hurdles Lord Byron, the sole 4-y-o in the line-up, and Montemares have already shown they can hold their own in Graded company and may prove best of the remainder
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
Saturday 21st March
This lively Saturday fixture, featuring an After Party following the final race, is part of the Ladbrokes Go North Weekend supported by The Racing Post.
Kelso’s 7-race programme, which will be broadcast live by ITV, includes several Series Finals including the £100,000 Herring Queen Mares Novice Hurdle which is one of the most valuable races of its type in Britain.
There will be musical entertainment following the final race in the Belhaven Village (no additional charge for the After Party – although a raceday admission ticket must be shown).
Hospitality bookings must be made in advance and are subject to availability
Gates open: 11:00am | First Race: 1:00pm
MOREBATTLE HURDLE
WINNERS 1950 - 2025
1950 Cabra Girl Calverley Bewicke
1951 Common Sense Jack Fawcus
1952 Jolly Gaul Alex Tully
1953 Knaresdale J.Marshall
1954 Jeroboam Stewart Wight
1955 Abandoned
1956 Calydon III Bill Dutton
1957 Hands Off Stewart Wight
1958 Bala Sea G.Dickinson
1959 Gay Robin George Fenningworth
1960 Brief Sparkle J.Dixon
1961 Lively Spirit Harry Bell
1962 & 1963 Abandoned
1964 Backbencher Harry Bell
1965 Padge B Ken Oliver
1966 Wild Sunset Barney Cross
1967 Vittorio Tom Robson
1968 Abandoned
1969 Bahadur Thomas Adams
1970 Bahadur Thomas Adams
1971 Low Pastures John Alder
1972 Nuits St.Georges Miss Helen Hamilton
1973 Baylord Gordon Richards
1974 Tom Morgan Ken Oliver
1975 Indian Emperor Frank Walton
1976 Any Second W.Murray
1977 Bishops Pawn James Nelson
1978 Top-N-Tale Gordon Richards
1979 Abandoned
1980 Direct Line Arthur Stephenson
1981 Nodana Tommy Craig
1982 Kibcoy Harry Bell
1983 Brunton Park Michael Dickinson
1984 Hills Guard Andy Scott
1985 Browne’s Gazette Monica Dickinson
1986 Abandoned
1987 Ballydurrow Roger Fisher
1988 Nohalmdun Peter Easterby
1989 Blazing Walker Arthur Stephenson
1990 Jinxy Jack Gordon Richards
1991 Jinxy Jack Gordon Richards
Bahadur, 1969
Baylord, 1973
Backbencher (right), 1964
Nohalmdun (middle), 1988
1992 Jinxy Jack Gordon Richards
1993 Jinxy Jack Gordon Richards
1994 Grey Power Mary Reveley
1995 Large Action Oliver Sherwood
1996 Abandoned
1997 Direct Route Howard Johnson
1998 Marello Mary Reveley
1999 Caulker Maurice Barnes
2000 Kathryn’s Pet Mary Reveley
2001, 2002 & 2003 Abandoned
2004 Chivalry Howard Johnson
2005 Kimbambo James Ewart
2006 Culcabock Lucinda Russell
2007 Brave Vision Alistair Whillans
2008 Bywell Beau George Charlton
2009 Abandoned
2010 Quwetwo Howard Johnson
2011 Peddlers Cross Donald McCain
2012 Simonsig Nicky Henderson
2013 Duke Of Navan Nicky Richards
2014 Runswick Royal Ann Hamilton
2015 Gingerburn Nicky Richards
2016 Top Notch Nicky Henderson
2017 Cyrus Darius Malcolm Jefferson
2018 Cyrius Darius Ruth Jefferson
2019 We Have A Dream Nicky Henderson
2020 Abandoned
2021 The Shunter Emmet Mullins
2022 Cormier Brian Ellison
2023 Benson Sandy Thomson
2024 Cracking Rhapsody Ewan Whillans
2025 CRACKING RHAPSODY
Simonsig, winner 2012
Duke Of Navan, winner 2013
Trainer - Ewan Whillans | Jockey - Craig Nichol Owner - J D Wright & Mrs S Wright
Benson (bay), 2023 Cracking Rhapsody, 2025
FOURTH
THE bet365 MOREBATTLE HURDLE (A HANDICAP HURDLE RACE) (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)
for four yrs old and upwards x Total prize fund £120000
RACE | 2.55 2m 51y
Rollover Race
Owners Prize Money. 1st £47136, 2nd £23568, 3rd £11784, 4th £5892, 5th £2940, 6th £1476, 7th £732, 8th £372. (Penalty Value £61728) Weights raised 14lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
Leading course trainer (20-25): A M Thomson (29 wins from 188 runners, 15%) runs DEDICATED HERO Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): D Skelton (11 wins from 71 runners, 15%) runs QUAVISTE
Fancy That: E Whillans won this race in 2024 and 2025 The stable runs CRACKING RHAPSODY today. Longest Traveller: LAAFI trained by W Durkan, Ireland
1 LAAFI (FR)(63) 13-05 D 6 12-0
Br B g Cloth of Stars (IRE) - Mediteranea (FR) P. M. O’Brien (5) J
O Four D Partnership William Durkan, Ireland T
B Eric Puerari
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on the Flat for William Haggas and quickly translated that ability to hurdles last winter Better effort in handicaps thistimeroundwhenfifthof17atLeopardstown(2m,good)overChristmas Remainsunexposedinthissphere. TFRHHHII BHA137
2
CRACKING RHAPSODY (IRE)(42)
101-066CD 7 11-13
Br B g Sans Frontieres (IRE) - Cracking Gale (IRE) Craig Nichol J
O Mr J D Wright & Mrs S Wright Ewan Whillans, Hawick T
TIMEFORM VIEW Yet another success story for this yard, winning maiden/novice hurdles in September before showing even better form in defeat later in the autumn. Back from a break to win on AWFlat last week Has to enter calculations TFRHHHII BHA134
SERIOUS CHALLENGE (IRE)
Br Ch g Fracas (IRE) - Dushlan (IRE)
(60)114-4P1 D 6 11-9
Jonathan Burke J
O Martin St Quinton & TheYesNoWaitSorries Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T
O Keith, David & Stephen Trowbridge Tom Dascombe, Lambourn T
B Sir Robert Ogden Route Agency Limited S
TIMEFORM VIEW Useful on Flat and similar standard over hurdles, gaining some reward for some fine efforts in handicaps when bagging a valuable prize at Windsor (2m, soft) last month. Likely to give it his usual good shot TFRHHHHI BHA130
CAPTAIN HUGO
(IRE)(27) 2-1121F D 6 11-6
Br Ch g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Vic Chic (IRE) Sean Houlihan J
O Scrimgeours, Mighell & White Philip Hobbs & Johnson White, Minehead T
Br Ch g Free Eagle (IRE) - Best Be Careful (IRE) Ryan Mania J
O The Seahouses Syndicate Adam Nicol, Seahouses T
B John Costello & Irish National Stud
TIMEFORMVIEWUsefulontheFlatandoverhurdles Creditablethirdof10inScottishCountyHurdleatMusselburgh (2m, good to soft) 4 weeks ago Capable of being very competitive in a race like this TFRHHHII BHA126
LUCKY MANIFEST (IRE)(33)P-11203 C 6 11-0
Br B g Lucky Speed (IRE) - Inter Alia (IRE) Stan Sheppard J
O RaceShare - Lucky Manifest Tom Lacey, Woolhope T
B Michael Ronayne RaceShare S
TIMEFORM VIEW Ended his time with James Ewart with a 21f course maiden win last spring and followed up in 2 3/4m handicap here for new yard6monthslater Betterformindefeatsincebuthedoesneedtoprovehiseffectivenessoverthismuchshortertrip TFRHHHII BHA123
DEDICATED HERO (IRE)(27)
5-6002U CD BF 7 11-0
Br B g Shirocco (GER) - True Dedication (IRE) Danny McMenamin J
O Recommended Freight & S McMillan Sandy Thomson, Greenlaw T
B Patrick and Bernadette Vaughan O’Connor Border Embroidery S
TIMEFORM VIEW Course bumper/maiden hurdle winner Some flat displays over hurdles this season but produced a promising first effort over fences when secondin2mnoviceatAyrlastmonth.UnseatedatthefirstatMusselburghsinceandnowbackhurdlinginfirst-timecheekpieces TFRHHIII BHA123
BESPOKE TAILOR
(IRE)(45)21-3322 6 10-11
Br B g Malinas (GER) - Bespoke Baby (IRE) Gavin Sheehan J
O Barratt, Signy & Spiers Oliver Signy, Lambourn T
TIMEFORM VIEW Course bumper winner who was successful in a handicap hurdle at Haydock last winter Better for reappearance when fourth of 9 over C&D over C&D last month and may come on again. TFRHHHII BHA118
CITY
OF
DIAMONDS (IRE)
(28) 512166 D 6 10-7
Br B g Diamond Boy (FR) - Honey Rosie (IRE) William Maggs (5) J
O Mr J. Fyffe Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T
B Mr Patrick Harrington JF Kegs (Scotland) Ltd, Bluegrass Horse Feeds S
Br B g Shirocco (GER) - Cool Baranca (GER) Peter Kavanagh J
O Margaret Coppola & Dianne Sayer
Dianne Sayer, Penrith T
B Emma Sayer Tote S
TIMEFORM VIEW Has won twice at this venue, most recently over 21f in November, and bounced back to form when fourth of 9 in handicaphurdleatMusselburghonNewYear’sDay AgoodKelsorecordmakeshimatoughonetodiscount TFRHHHII BHA110
This looks a good renewal. QUAVISTE caught the eye on his Kempton handicap debut and Dan Skelton’s 6-y-o may be able to deny Cracking Rhapsody a third successive win in this Serious Challenge and the likeable Hot Fuss are a few of many others who could play a prominent role.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB
THE bet365 HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)
for four yrs old and upwards x Total prize fund £30000
Leading course trainer (20-25): N Richards (19 wins from 109 runners, 17%) runs FLORIDA DREAMS Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): O Murphy (10 wins from 49 runners, 20%) runs GOOD TO BE ALIVE
Longest Traveller: FRONTIER PRINCE trained by F O’Brien, Cheltenham, 307 miles
1
FINGAL’S HILL (IRE)(36)
012-112
Br B g Shirocco (GER) - Fingal’s Sister (IRE)
O Mr P. G. Atkinson
B J. Kinsella
2
3
10 12-0
Callum Bewley J
Peter Atkinson, Northallerton T
TIMEFORM VIEW In cracking form when winning 3 times between March and June last year and looked better than ever after 7 months off when second of 4 in 2m3f handicap at Doncaster 36 days ago Well in the mix
O Mrs A Marshall & Mr D Swindlehurst Donald Whillans, Hawick T
B Mrs Philippa Stocker Primasonics International Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Low mileage for his age and notched a second course success just after Christmas Unable to get to the front in more competitive 3m handicap at Haydock since and this is no easy ask either TFRHHIII BHA124
FLORIDA DREAMS (IRE)
Br B g Doyen (IRE) - First Line (GER)
(27) 4-22336 8 11-4
Brian Hughes J
O Mr J. Fyffe Nicky Richards, Greystoke T
B Mrs Rita Moran JF Kegs (Scotland) Ltd, Equine Products Ltd (Equine Nutrition) S
TIMEFORM VIEW It’s now 11 runs since his last win in 2024 but he’s holding his form well, sixth of 13 in 3m handicap hurdle at Musselburgh 27 days ago Needs considering from a slipping mark TFRHHHII BHA123
SMART DECISION
(GB)(25) 1-31124 BF 5 11-3
Br B g Postponed (IRE) - Maven
Jamie Hamilton J
O Reality Partnerships XIX Tim Easterby, Malton T
B Habton Racing Easthorpe Hall Stud S
TIMEFORM VIEW EnhancedanexcellentstrikeratewhenscoringatLeicesterandMarketRaseneithersideofChristmas Posted a solid fourth of 11 in 2m1f handicap at Carlisle 25 days ago Weighted to go well back up in trip TFRHHHHI BHA122
BOLD LIGHT (IRE)
(13)5-6404U
Br Ch g Leading Light (IRE) - Turmoss (FR) Alan Doyle (3) J
O Mr J Scott Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
Br B or Br g Frontiersman - Scorpion Princess (IRE) Jonathan Burke J
O Mr J. N. Greenley Fergal O’Brien, Cheltenham T
B Mr J Greenley BresBet S
TIMEFORMVIEW Gotoffthemarkin2mChepstownoviceinOctoberandhasadvancedhisformsincesenthandicapping, third of 10 at Kempton (2m) 26 days ago Can’t be
Br Breeding O Owner B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
DECLARED RUNNERS 8 2025: BOLD LIGHT (IRE) 8 11 7 Jack Power 17-2 (Lucinda Russell) 10 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1. Stewards Note:
BOTH BARRELS: Following its run on 17/1/2026 it was reported that the horse was hampered by a faller
Probable S.P’s: 7-2 Florida Dreams (IRE), 4-1 Good To Be Alive (IRE), 6-1 Smart Decision (GB), 7-1 Frontier Prince (GB), 15-2 Fingal’s Hill (IRE), 10-1 Bold Light (IRE), 12-1 Skyjack Hijack (IRE), 16-1 Both Barrels (GB)
This looks wide open so at the likely odds it could be worth siding with last year’s victor BOLD LIGHT to bounce back in style after an unproductive spell chasing with his yard also right back on the up of late. Smart Decision seems sure to be on the premises off a still handy-looking mark, while in-form duo Good To Be Alive and Fingal’s Hill are firmly in the picture too
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
SIXTH RACE | 4.00
THE bet365 JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Go North Night Nurse Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE)
for juvenile four yrs old x Total prize fund £15000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £6059, 2nd £3029, 3rd £1515, 4th £758, 5th £378. (Penalty Value £7921.50)
Leading course trainer (20-25): L Russell & M Scudamore (13 wins from 66 runners, 20%) run STORM THE DUG Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): B Pauling (10 wins from 28 runners, 36%) runs VIVRE LE REVE Fancy That: Harry Derham won this race in 2024 and 2025 The stable runs BELAYA RIVER today. Longest Traveller: BELAYA RIVER trained by H Derham, Newbury, 353 miles
Br Breeding O Owner B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
1
VIVRE LE REVE (GB)(37)10 11-10
Br B g Pether’s Moon (IRE) - Solojorie (FR) Ben Jones J
O Burns, P & M Morrall, Stokes & Wicks Ben Pauling, Naunton T
Br B g Siyouni (FR) - Kosmische (IRE) Harry Skelton J
O D&D Armstrong and McNeill Family Harry Derham, Newbury T
B Rashit Shaykhutdinov OLBG S
TIMEFORM VIEW Placed a few times on the Flat (stays 16.5f) for Charlie Fellowes and easily best effort over hurdles when making all in juvenile at Catterick 4 weeks ago More needed again under a penalty. TFRHHHII BHA109 3
BRUCE BANNER (IRE)(92) 1 D
4
11-6
Br B g Starspangledbanner (AUS) - Special Meaning Nathan Moscrop J
O Mr James Adams Rebecca Menzies, Sedgefield T
B Glebeland Farm Partnership Bluegrass Horse Feeds, J.R.Adams S
DECLARED RUNNERS 7 2025: FILIBUSTERING 4 11 0 Paul O’Brien 1-2 (Harry Derham) 6 ran Hood worn first time by No 7. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 5.
Probable S.P’s: 4-5 Keyboard (IRE), 11-2 Vivre Le Reve (GB), 6-1 Bruce Banner (IRE), 15-2 Belaya River (FR), 22-1 Word For Word (IRE), 80-1 Captain Connor (FR), 100-1 Storm The Dug (FR)
KEYBOARD is getting better with each run and has an excellent chance on these terms up against 3 penalised winners, including expensive French-recruit Vivre le Reve, whose British debut was too bad to be true.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
HELP KEEP KELSO TIDY
British racing has reduced the number of horses that fall by a third and fatalities to 0.25% of 90,000 yearly runners. sh has ed ho es t d 00 run s.
THE bet365 MARES’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Herring Queen Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE)
for novice four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares x Total prize fund £10000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £4173, 2nd £2087, 3rd £1043, 4th £522. (Penalty Value £5446)
Leading course trainer (20-25): N Alexander (26 wins from 244 runners, 11%) runs JUST AN ARTIST Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): L Russell & M Scudamore (7 wins from 36 runners, 19%) run HUNTERS SPRING Longest Traveller: A PATH TO RONDA trained by Mr J Snowden, Lambourn, 339 miles
Br Breeding O Owner B Breeder J Jockey T Trainer S Sponsor
TIMEFORM VIEW Flat winner for William Haggas and looks of similar ability over hurdles for this yard, winning 2 Cartmel novices in the summer PredictablystruggledupinclassatHaydockafter4monthsoffinDecemberbutcanmakepresencefeltbackatthislevel.
2 A PATH TO RONDA (IRE)(21) 14-1233 D 6 11-7
Br Gr m Getaway (GER) - Dusty Too Gavin Sheehan J
O RC Syndicate II Jamie Snowden, Lambourn T
B Mrs Virginia McGrath racingclub.com S
TIMEFORM VIEW Bumper winner who made scored in ready fashion on hurdling debut/reappearance at Stratford (22f). Better form in defeat since, includingwhenexcellentthirdinGrade2atWarwick3weeksago Dropintripshouldn’tposeaprobleminthiscompany
JUST
AN
ARTIST
(GB)(25) 5P-1P43 D 5 11-7
Br B m Masterstroke (USA) - Justapuzzle
O P and F Racing
Bruce Lynn J
N. W. Alexander, Kinneston T
B Mrs Elizabeth Fletcher Kinneston Bloodstock Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW No impact in a bumper/novice hurdle at Carlisle.
CHANGEMYLUCK
(GB)(13)0003
6 11-0
Br B m Yorgunnabelucky (USA) - Belle Bella (IRE) Sean Quinlan J
O S Coltherd E Gillie Stuart Coltherd, Selkirk T
B W. S. Coltherd
TIMEFORM VIEW First worthwhile form when third of 6 in novice hurdle at Musselburgh (19.8f, good to soft) 2 weeks ago but showed nowhere near enough to warrant interest here. TFRHHIII BHA-
HUNTERS SPRING
(GB)(79)132-44
Br B m Nayef (USA) - Last Supper
O Mr R. Gibbons
5 11-0
Conner McCann (7) J
Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
B Robert Gibbons Edinburgh Real Ale Limited, Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Made a winning debut in Newcastle bumper last season. Offered something to work on when fourth of 8 at Perth (2m, heavy) on hurdling bow/return in October but disappointed at Newcastle 7 weeks later TFRHHHII BHA105
SAGONIGE (GB)(30) 12/-6 7 11-0
Br B m Blue Bresil (FR) - Oleohneh (IRE)
O The Switched On Club
B N. Ruth Jefferson
Brian Hughes J
Ruth Jefferson, Malton T
Ruth Jefferson Racing Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Bumperwinnerondebutin2023/24seasonbutbeatenbymuchmorethananear2-yearabsencewhen well held on hurdling debut at Ayr last month, especially considering her strength in the betting. TFRHHHII BHA-
DECLARED RUNNERS 8
2025: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR Hood worn by No 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1.
Probable S.P’s: 8-15 A Path To Ronda (IRE), 10-1 Bittalemon (GB), 12-1 Just An Artist (GB), Hunters Spring (GB), 16-1 Sagonige (GB), 25-1 Changemyluck (GB), 66-1 Am I Bovvered (GB), 150-1 Bollin Skittle (GB)
A PATH TO RONDA looks a stayer in the making but this drop in distance shouldn’t be an issue in this company having finished third in a Grade 2 at Warwick 3 weeks ago Bittalemon can follow the selection home returned to a more suitable level.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
THE HORSERACE BETTING LEVY BOARD
(GBB RACE)
for novice five yrs old and upwards x Total prize fund £20000 Owners Prize Money. 1st £8078, 2nd £4038, 3rd £2020, 4th £1010. (Penalty Value £10562)
Leading course trainer (20-25): N Alexander (26 wins from 244 runners, 11%) runs SCARLET JET Trainer-in-form (last 14 days): L Russell & M Scudamore (7 wins from 36 runners, 19%) run OLD GREGORIAN Longest Traveller: AL KALILA trained by S R B Crawford, Ireland
1 PUSH THE BUTTON (IRE)(35)
60-1220 7 11-10
Br Gr g Kingston Hill - Tara Rose Jamie Hamilton J
O The 8 Amigos, Readers & Wiggy, N Skinner Mark Walford, Sheriff Hutton T
Br B g Jack Hobbs - Thankyou Very Much Derek Fox J
O Mr R. Gibbons Lucinda Russell & Michael Scudamore, Kinross T
B Robert Gibbons Edinburgh Real Ale Limited, Ian Macleod & Co Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Won 2 handicap hurdles last season, at this course (16.2f) on the first occasion. After 6 months off, made a successful chasing debut in maidenatWetherby(19.4f,goodtofirm)inOctober,hissolerivaldeparting4out Majorplayerhandicappinginthissphere. TFRHHHHH BHA123
3 AL KALILA (IRE)
(39)014-233 BF
4
7 10-10
Br B g Soldier of Fortune (IRE) - Molly’s Affair (IRE) Sean Bowen J
O Mr Simon Munir/Mr Isaac Souede S. R. B. Crawford, Northern Ireland T
B Mr Thomas Stanley The Sporting Life S
TIMEFORM VIEW Ended last season on the up over hurdles and shaped very well sent chasing when runner-up in handicap here (23.4f) inNovember Leftwithtoomuchtodowhenthirdof8atDownRoyal(24f,heavy)lasttime,sohecouldbounceback TFRHHHHI BHA122
SCARLET JET (IRE)
(25) 431-404
6 10-5
Br B g Elusive Pimpernel (USA) - Jet Alert (IRE) Bruce Lynn J
O Turcan Borwick Maclay Trotter N. W. Alexander, Kinneston T
B Brenda Crean Kinneston Bloodstock Ltd S
TIMEFORM VIEW Point winner who was progressive over hurdles last season. However, lesser efforts first 2 starts this term, before last of 4inmaidenatCarlisle(20.9f,goodtosoft)onchasingdebut25daysago Cheekpiecesappliedforhandicapbow. TFRHHIII BHA115
DECLARED RUNNERS 4 2025: WALK ON QUEST (IRE) 6 10 12 Derek Fox 11-4 (Lucinda Russell) 5 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No 4. Tongue Strap worn by No 2. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No 1.
Probable S.P’s: 13-8 Al Kalila (IRE), 2-1 Old Gregorian (GB), 7-2 Push The Button (IRE), 7-1 Scarlet Jet (IRE)
This can go the way of OLD GREGORIAN, who has the physique for chasing and made a winning start over fences at Wetherby, looking to have the measure of his sole rival when that one departed. With improvement to come he is preferred to Al Kalila, who had excuses on his latest outing, ahead of Push The Button.
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
RACE CONDITIONS
First Race 1.10 - THE bet365 HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10562 to the winning horse The second to receive £4860, the third £2430, the fourth £1216 and the fifth £606. for five yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-130 (also open to such horses rated 131 and 132 - see Standard Conditions). £100 stake if the horse is rated 104 or higher, or £20 stake if the horse is rated 103 or lower with £80 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Penalties, after February 21st, 2026, for each steeple chase won 7lb bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and £50 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. In addition, the winning owner will also receive the Hamilton Memorial Trophy, to be held for one year only All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of bet365. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 13 entries at £100. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8078; Second £4038; Third £2020; Fourth £1010; Fifth £504. (Penalty Value £10562) SEE PAGE 10 FOR THIS RACE
Second Race 1.40 - THE bet365 PREMIER STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 1) (Listed Race) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £34170 to the winning horse The second to receive £12822, the third £6420 and the fourth £3198. for five yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, February 23rd and pay £300 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Weights: 5-y-o 10st 10lb; 6-y-o and up 11st 2lb Mares allowed 7lb Penalties, after September 30th, 2024, a winner of a Listed or Premier Handicap/Grade 3 steeple chase 4lb Of a Grade 1 or Grade 2 steeple chase 6lb (Half penalties for wins achieved in Novices’ and Beginners’ Steeple Chases in Great Britain and Ireland, and three-yearold only Steeple Chases in France). bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £100 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of bet365. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 8 entries at £300. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £26148; Second £10734; Third £5370; Fourth £2682. (Penalty Value £34170) A SEE PAGE 13 FOR THIS RACE
Third Race 2.15 - THE bet365 PREMIER NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 1) (Grade 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £45560 to the winning horse The second to receive £17096, the third £8560, the fourth £4264, the fifth £2144 and the sixth £1072. for novice four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, February 23rd and pay £400 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 7lb; 5-y-o and up 11st 5lb Fillies and mares allowed 7lb Penalties a winner of a Class 2 weight-for-age or Class 1 handicap hurdle race 3lb Of a Class 1 weight-for-age hurdle race 5lb No allowance to take a Horse’s weight below 10st 2lb bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and also a £100 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. The British Horseracing Authority’s Development Fund has generously contributed £15000 towards the prize money for this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of bet365. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 18 entries at £400. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £34864; Second £14312; Third £7160; Fourth £3576; Fifth £1792; Sixth £896. (Penalty Value £45560) A SEE PAGE 14 FOR THIS RACE
Fourth Race 2.55 - THE bet365 MOREBATTLE HURDLE (A HANDICAP HURDLE RACE) (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £61728 to the winning horse The second to receive £28380, the third £14196, the fourth £7092, the fifth £3552, the sixth £1764, the seventh £888 and the eighth £444. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, February 10th and pay £150 stake, Confirm by noon, February 23rd and pay £450, Declare by 10.00 a.m February 26th. Penalties after February 15th, 2026, for each hurdle race won 7lb No penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 12st. bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £100 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of bet365. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code FESTIVAL BONUS The winner of this race will qualify for a bonus of £100,000 if subsequently winning a race at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. Terms relating to the bonus are available from Kelso Races Ltd. The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraph 6 of the Weights and Handicapping Code for the purposes of this race, such that racecourse performances up to and including the Sunday after closing may be taken into account 42 entries 20 at £150, 22 at £600. - Closed February 10th, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £47136; Second £23568; Third £11784; Fourth £5892; Fifth £2940; Sixth £1476; Seventh £732; Eighth £372. (Penalty Value £61728) Weights raised 14lb and paragraph 34 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable.
SEE PAGE 18 FOR THIS RACE
Fifth Race 3.30 - THE bet365 HANDICAP HURDLE RACE (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £15609 to the winning horse The second to receive £7176, the third £3588, the fourth £1794, the fifth £897 and the sixth £447. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 0-150 (also open to such horses rated 151 and 152 - see Standard Conditions). £150 stake if the horse is rated 124 or higher, or £30 stake if the horse is rated 123 or lower with £120 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Penalties after February 21st, 2026, for each hurdle race won 7lb bet365 have generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £100 cash prize will be awarded to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of bet365. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: A novice or juvenile horse shall only be qualified to run in this race if it has run a minimum of four times in Hurdle races in Great Britain, Ireland or France in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Weights and Handicapping Code 16 entries, 5 at £30 and 11 at £150. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £11925; Second £5961; Third £2982; Fourth £1491; Fifth £744; Sixth £372. (Penalty Value £15609) SEE PAGE 22 FOR THIS RACE
Sixth Race 4.00 - THE bet365 JUVENILE HURDLE RACE (CLASS 3) (Go North Night Nurse Hurdle Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £7921 to the winning horse The second to receive £3645, the third £1822, the fourth £912 and the fifth £454. for juvenile four yrs old. Enter by noon, February 23rd and pay £75 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Weights: 11st each Fillies allowed 7lb Penalties, a winner of a hurdle race 6lb Of 2 hurdle races or of a Class 1 or Class 2 hurdle race 10lb bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £50 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. This race is a qualifier for the Go North Night Nurse Hurdle Series Final, to be run over a distance of about 2m 4f at Musselburgh on 20th March, 2026. In order to qualify for the Final, horses must have Started in three or more Jump races in the North during the current season, at least one of which must have been a Go North Night Nurse Series qualifier 10 entries at £75. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £6059; Second £3029; Third £1515; Fourth £758; Fifth £378. (Penalty Value £7921.50) SEE PAGE 24 FOR THIS RACE
Seventh Race 4.35 - THE bet365 MARES’ NOVICES’ HURDLE RACE (CLASS 4) (Herring Queen Series Qualifier) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £5446 to the winning horse The second to receive £2509, the third £1254 and the fourth £628. for novice four yrs old and upwards fillies and mares only, which have not won more than two hurdle races Enter by noon, February 23rd and pay £50 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. February 26th. Weights: 4-y-o 10st 2lb; 5-y-o and up 11st Penalties a winner of a hurdle race 7lb Of 2 hurdle races 12lb bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £50 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse in this race. Horses which have been placed in the first six in this race will qualify for the £100,000 Final (A Class 2 Handicap) of the Herring Queen Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle Race Series to be run over about two miles at Kelso on Saturday, 21st March, 2026. 13 entries at £50. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £4173; Second £2087; Third £1043; Fourth £522. (Penalty Value £5446)
SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE
Eighth Race 5.10 - THE bet365 CYRIL ALEXANDER MEMORIAL NOVICES’ LIMITED HANDICAP STEEPLE CHASE (CLASS 3) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10562 to the winning horse The second to receive £4860, the third £2430 and the fourth £1216. for novice five yrs old and upwards. £100 stake if the horse is rated 130 or higher or £20 stake if the horse is rated 129 or lower with £80 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m February 26th. Lowest weight 10st 5lb; Highest weight 11st 10lb Penalties, after February 21st, 2026, for each steeple chase won 7lb (20lb weight range). bet365 has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner and a £50 cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the best turned out horse. In addition, the winning owner will receive the Cyril Alexander Memorial Quaich to be held for one year only 12 entries, 8 at £20 and 4 at £100. - Closed February 23rd, 2026. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8078; Second £4038; Third £2020; Fourth £1010. (Penalty Value £10562)
SEE PAGE 29 FOR THIS RACE
SAFETY INFORMATION
A day at Kelso Racecourse should be great fun for everyone; nobody wants an injury or an incident to spoil their day. So, when push comes to shove, we need to make sure that there isn’t any pushing or shoving.
The racecourse team prepares carefully for each event and we take every precaution to ensure that the site is as safe as is practical. However, we also need some help from you – to take responsibility for your own safety and to respect the safety and comfort of those around you. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a brief list of precautions that we’d like all visitors to consider:
Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Fortunately very few accidents occur at Kelso Racecourse, but those that do are most likely to be relatively minor incidents involving someone who has had too much to drink Quite simply: you’ll be safer if you drink less alcohol. On the rare occasion that we receive a customer complaint, it’s quite likely to be linked to the behaviour of someone who’s had one too many So please drink responsibly and encourage your friends to stay within their limits
Any incident involving substance abuse will be dealt with by Police Scotland.
Slips, Trips, Falls
We’ve commenced a series of developments at the racecourse and we’re gradually making the site more accessible for all, with smoother surfaces and ramps where we have differences in gradient
Please note that the site is not flat and there may be differences in levels, particularly between old surfaces, and surfaces which have recently been renewed. Please take care of yourselves and mind where you walk Don’t try to run faster than your legs can go, even if you think your bookmaker might be packing away for the day
Fences, Walls & Barriers
The fences, walls and temporary barriers located on the racecourse are intended to segregate people into specific areas This may include segregating people from horses or people from sensitive or hazardous equipment
Please do not attempt to climb over, sit on or stand on any barriers – regardless of whether they appear to be permanent or temporary features – they are not designed to take a person’s weight
Horses
Horses are big and run very fast; hopefully yours will run fastest of all. Please pay attention when in close proximity to the horses: stay on the public side of any barriers (close to the track or horse walk areas) and do not sit on or lean over barriers near to the horses The running rails are designed to encourage the horses to stay on the track –but they will not withstand a horse’s weight if they hit them, nor a jockey’s if he is thrown over them – so be prepared to move if a horse is behaving erratically
Fires
We’re proud of Kelso’s reputation for providing a warm welcome and the unique feature provided by the real fires that we light in the listed Grandstand and in the log-burning braziers surrounding the Parade Ring.
Our Fires have no brains – so please use your own. Fires are hot and there is a danger of burning yourself if you touch the fire or the surrounding metalwork Please do not put anything in the fires or fireplaces
Children
We welcome many children to Kelso races Although we don’t consider them to be particularly dangerous, we do ask that all children are appropriately supervised by a responsible adult – who should be particularly mindful of all the considerations above
