Caldwell Potter delivered another standout performance at the Randox Grand National Festival on Ladies Day, capturing his first Grade One title in style. Coming off an impressive showing at the Cheltenham Festival, the grey gelding showcased both grit and grace under the guidance of Harry Cobden in the Huyton Asphalt Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Mildmay Novices’. The result was a commanding victory by over a length against strong competition, confirming the promise he has long carried.
Wearing the recognizable yellow silks associated with the late John Hales, the seven-year-old controlled the race from the front. Despite the demanding conditions, he showed remarkable stamina and jumping ability throughout. His ownership group includes a notable list of names such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Ged Mason, Lisa Hales, Peter Done, and Paul Hogarth — a testament to the high expectations surrounding him since his record-breaking purchase.
Trainer Paul Nicholls expressed both pride and relief after the win. He reflected on recent challenges, particularly issues related to the horse’s feet, which required careful management leading up to the race. Nicholls compared the process to breaking in an ill-fitting pair of shoes, but credited his team’s persistence in getting Caldwell Potter comfortable and race-ready. He noted that while the horse had previously raced over shorter trips, today’s success over a longer distance proved he is adaptable and still evolving.
The horse’s transformation in recent weeks was remarkable, with Nicholls attributing the improvement to better ground conditions and increasing familiarity with the horse’s needs. He emphasized how valuable the learning process has been, praising his team — especially his head lad Clifford Baker — for their dedication. The training journey has been anything but straightforward, but the outcome clearly justified the effort.
Cobden, too, was full of praise for his mount, describing the race as a true test of toughness. Despite feeling some fatigue from the Cheltenham outing, Caldwell Potter never stopped trying, especially at key fences late in the race. The jockey emphasized the significance of the win, both in terms of prestige and its impact on the jockeys’ standings in the Power Cup.
Reflecting on the team behind the horse, Cobden acknowledged the crucial support of the ownership group and the late John Hales’ belief in the gelding. While the victory was cause for celebration, it also carried a tinge of sadness with Hales no longer present to witness the moment.
The future appears bright for Caldwell Potter, with potential targets like the Betfair Chase being considered. Left-handed tracks may suit him best going forward, and his blend of courage, endurance, and athleticism make him a compelling contender for major titles ahead.
