Plumpton Racecourse hosts an intriguing card today, live on Sky Sports Racing, with all eyes on Mondo Man as he prepares for a potential tilt at the prestigious Cheltenham Festival. The Gary and Josh Moore-trained five-year-old is entered in the Alfriston Hotel – Have You Visited? Maiden Hurdle, a race connections hope will provide a confidence boost ahead of a possible run in the County Hurdle at Cheltenham next month.
Despite a pedigree that includes runs in Group and Graded races on the flat, Mondo Man has secured only one win to date. The team at Moore Racing believe a maiden hurdle presents an ideal opportunity to build momentum before a potentially challenging trip to Prestbury Park. The focus is on sharpening the horse’s form and ensuring he’s in peak condition for a competitive field at Cheltenham.
The presence of Mondo Man has naturally drawn attention to the Plumpton fixture, with racing enthusiasts eager to assess his readiness for the Festival. Beyond Plumpton, the wider racing calendar is heating up as trainers finalize their plans for the major spring meetings.
Mondo Man Faces Seven Rivals at Plumpton
Mondo Man heads a field of seven in the 1:30pm Maiden Hurdle. While considered the favorite, he’s expected to face a stern test from Ben Clarke’s Thistle Be The One, a horse that has shown promising form in previous hurdle races, notably finishing behind French Ship and Grade 2 winner Alexei. The Thistle Be The One will sport a first-time tongue tie as connections attempt to unlock further potential and the step up in trip could suit the runner.
Other contenders include Major Major, trained by Cynthia Woods, and My Lovely Horse, representing David Bridgwater. However, My Lovely Horse has struggled for consistency, being pulled up in two of his last three starts, raising questions about his chances today.
Getaway King Aims for Four-Timer
Later on the card, at 4:15pm, Getaway King will attempt to extend his remarkable winning streak to four races in the Sky Sports Racing Supports Jamie’s Farm Handicap Chase. The eight-year-old, trained by Fergal O’Brien, has been in exceptional form since joining the Ravenswell Farm operation, securing victories at Lingfield (twice) and Fontwell. Recent reports indicate the horse is thriving over the two-and-a-half-mile distance.
Getaway King will face competition from four rivals, including Koenigsstern, trained by Nick Gifford, who was progressing well before a fall at Lingfield. Ostrava Du Berlais, representing Venetia Williams, is similarly a notable contender, seeking a third chase win. Rap Soul and Le Galli Bier, both trained by Gary and Josh Moore, complete the lineup.
Midnight Call Seeks Hat-Trick at Wolverhampton
Switching to the all-weather action at Wolverhampton, Midnight Call, trained by Tony Carroll, will attempt to complete a hat-trick of wins in the 6:25pm Midnite: Built For 2026 Not 2006 Apprentice Handicap. The five-year-old mare has been in excellent form at Dunstall Park, winning twice in January over five and six furlongs. Racing Post reports that Carroll’s mare is a Wolverhampton specialist.
Albert Cee, who has shown improved form since undergoing wind surgery, and Woodhay Whisper, seeking back-to-back victories under a 5lb penalty, are expected to pose a challenge. Twilight Madness, Bint Havana Gold, and Invincible Melody also feature in the ten-runner field.
Today’s racing action provides a valuable opportunity to assess potential Cheltenham contenders and observe horses in excellent form. The performances at Plumpton and Wolverhampton will undoubtedly shape the narratives leading up to the Festival and beyond.
The coming days will be crucial for trainers as they finalize their Cheltenham teams. Preserve an eye on further declarations and form updates as the Festival draws closer.
What are your thoughts on Mondo Man’s chances at Cheltenham? Share your predictions in the comments below!
