Goffs Irish Arkle Novice Chase
Grade 1, Leopardstown 14:55
€150,000 guaranteed
5yo plus,
2m 1f, Class 1  
Saturday 1st February 2025

FreeRacingTips

1 Majborough 8/11F
2 Touch Me Not 12/1
3 Firefox 15/2
6 ran Distances: 9l, 3¾l, 5l
Time: 4m 11.50s (fast by 1.50s)

In a thrilling display at Leopardstown on Saturday, Majborough, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by jockey Paul Townend, secured a decisive victory. The six-year-old gelding showcased exceptional jumping ability and speed, solidifying his status as a leading novice chaser this season.

From the outset, Majborough settled comfortably behind the early leaders, displaying patience and tactical awareness. As the race progressed, he steadily advanced, taking command after the penultimate fence. A flawless leap at the final obstacle allowed him to extend his lead, ultimately crossing the finish line three lengths ahead of his nearest rival.

Trainer Willie Mullins expressed his delight post-race, stating, "Majborough has always shown immense potential at home, and it's gratifying to see him deliver on the big stage. His jumping was impeccable today, and he handled the ground conditions beautifully."

Jockey Paul Townend also praised Majborough's performance, noting, "He was a dream to ride today. He settled well, responded when I asked, and his jump at the last was exceptional. He's an exciting horse for the future."

The victory has prompted discussions about Majborough's prospects at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival, with many viewing him as a strong contender for the Arkle Challenge Trophy. Analysts have highlighted his combination of speed, agility, and composure as key attributes that could make him a formidable competitor in future Grade 1 events.

This win adds to a successful weekend for Willie Mullins, who also celebrated victories with other stable stars, further cementing his dominance in the National Hunt scene.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Majborough to see if he can continue his upward trajectory and establish himself as one of the premier novice chasers in training.

BetGoodwin

Arkle Novice Chase
(Grade 1) 2m 1f, €150,000 guaranteed
6 ran
Going: Yielding, Good to Yielding in places

POS. DIST HORSE AGE WGT TRAINER JOCKEY SP
1    Majborough 5 11-10 W P Mullins Mark Walsh 8/11F
2 9 Touch Me Not 6 11-12 Gordon Elliott Danny Gilligan 12/1
3 3¾ Firefox 7 11-12 Gordon Elliott Sam Ewing 15/2
4 5 Jeannot Lapin 6 11-12 Gearoid O'Loughlin Ricky Doyle 33/1
5 12 Ile Atlantique 7 11-12 W P Mullins Paul Townend 5/2
6 13 Here Comes Georgie 7 11-12 Patrick Neville Lee Edwards 150/1

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