Joe Tizzard Friday runners blog - October 23, 2026

Cheltenham 3.35 – JPR One

We had been considering taking JPR One to Far Hills, for the American Grand National last weekend, as it turned out there were only eight runners, and he’d have been close to being favourite, but having looked at the logistics of travelling him over there, and the cost involved, which were fairly substantial, we decided against it.  It was an interesting exercise to look at it though, and we wouldn’t rule it out in the future with another horse.

Instead, we’re starting him off in a handicap at Cheltenham this week.  Because we were considering America, we did get him in slightly earlier, so he’s fit and well, and he should get lovely good ground, there is rain around which will help.

Life is never easy for him, his rating of 158 means he does fall short at the highest level, but he has to give weight away in handicaps, but some of these rivals would be some way off Grade One level, and our fellow definitely isn’t, so that’s where we are with him.

He should be able to skip round here on the forecast ground, and if all goes well, we’d look to come back here for the Shloer Chase next month.  As I say, he’s never easy to place, but aged nine, rising ten now, he’s in wonderful form, Chris [Wald, assistant] rides him out and is very happy with him.

He always seems to have his day in the sun each season, and there’s no reason he can’t again this year.

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