TO win either the Grand National, the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Champion Chase or the Champion Hurdle in a season would be a life-defining moment for any trainer. But to claim all four, the holy grail of jump racing, in the space of four weeks is simply extraordinary. Henry de Bromhead has barely had a chance to draw breath during the whirlwind of the past two months.
“The whole thing’s been incredible – it does feel special but you have to pinch yourself a bit,” says the trainer from his Co Waterford home. “I grew up watching all these races and never dreamt I’d have a runner in them, let alone win them.”
While many trainers must be eyeing his winning haul enviously, Henry cannot pinpoint this season’s winning formula – it’s just something he’s been “tinkering with” over the years.
“I never expect – always hope,” he says. “But I’m basically always trying to improve what we do. There have been no big changes though, we just hit a purple patch at the right time.”
The Rachael Blackmore factor undoubtedly played its part and Henry is quick to credit the influence of his stable jockey, whose analytical approach makes her the master tactician.
“She’s a brilliant rider, the ultimate professional and she’s great to work with so we’re very lucky to have her,” he says.
Denne historien er fra May 13, 2021-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra May 13, 2021-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
