Cheltenham welcomes the return of jump racing as this afternoon’s Showcase card unveils the early-season stars of the 2025–26 campaign.
The road to the Cheltenham festival starts here. Day one of the Cheltenham Showcase often brings excitement, surprises, and the first real glimpse of what lies ahead for the new jumps season. Prestbury Park’s seven-race card is stacked with exciting talent and emerging Festival contenders, offering racing fans and punters a first look at who could make their mark this season.
Country Mile
Lining up in the 1:50 Novices’ Chase, Country Mile is one of the most talked-about runners of the day. A previous course winner over hurdles, back in December last year, he now switches to fences with strong support from racing punters. With Dan Skelton as his trainer, Country Mile can benefit from a stable that has improved considerably in recent years.
Navajo Indy
One to watch in the 1:15 William Hill Handicap Hurdle, Navajo Indy looks set to make a strong impression at the start of his campaign. Trained by Gordon Elliott, whose Cheltenham record speaks for itself, Navajo Indy could well set the tone for the weekend ahead.
Un Sens A La Vie
In the 3:00 Novice Hurdle, Un Sens A La Vie represents the in-form Twiston-Davies stable. With only a few runs under his belt, he’s already shown signs of real quality after an impressive debut performance. Moving up in class won’t be easy, but he has the talent and temperament to hold his own as a key runner to follow.
Jasko Des Dames
Jasko Des Dames takes on the 3:35 Handicap Chase after a solid reappearance run, which has set him as the favourite in the 2-mile handicap chase. Having lined up in the Grand Annual at the Festival, he arrives with proven Cheltenham experience and improved fitness.
Rubber Ball
A worthy one to follow in the 2:25 Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, who brings reliable recent form. A dual winner from five starts last season, he scored at both Huntingdon and Market Rasen, showing versatility across track types and going. If he reproduces his late-season form, Rubber Ball could easily emerge as one of the day’s most competitive runners.
As the new jumps season commences, this afternoon’s card at Cheltenham sets the tone for the months ahead. With competitive racing on display, it offers an early glimpse of potential contenders for the Cheltenham Festival come March.
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