GUNNING FOR THE TITLE

Dan Skelton has big ambitions for the new National Hunt campaign and plenty of stars to go to war with

When it comes to consistency on the biggest stages few could match the levels of trainer Dan Skelton last season. With some exciting new recruits and some notable names back among his ranks the 2023/24 Jump campaign promises to be even better.

Big wins for Protektorat in the Betfair Chase at Haydock Park, Le Milos in the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury and Ashtown Lad in the Boylesports Becher Chase at Aintree, ensured the run up to Christmas was a memorable one for the Alcester handler and his team.

Added to that, two winners at the Cheltenham Festival courtesy of Langer Dan in the Coral Cup, and Faivoir in the McCoy Contractors County Handicap Hurdle, helped see Skelton set a new personal best prize money total exceeding £2.6 million come the end of the season.

Not one to rest on his laurels Skelton is already looking forward to another success laden campaign with another exciting team at his disposal.

He said: “I was happy with what we achieved last season. We had a pretty outstanding run throughout November and December and it carried on into the new year and they all ran up to their best I feel.

“We had two winners at the Cheltenham Festival and two up at Aintree and that was very important.

“They maintained their form throughout the season which was important. I was very happy with things but you do have to keep going.

“However, the team we have this season looks more than capable of helping us enjoy some more big days.”

HORSE-BY-HORSE GUIDE

PROTEKTORAT