Lulamba lit up Sandown Park with a performance full of confidence and composure, easing clear in the Grade One Henry VIII Novices’ Chase on Saturday 6th December, day two of the festival. Nico de Boinville barely had to ask the four-year-old for effort as he moved smoothly to the front two out and pulled away, drawing a warm reception from the crowd.
The black-and-yellow-checked runner made it two wins from two starts over fences, finishing nine and a half lengths ahead and giving trainer Nicky Henderson his sixth success in the race. His earlier winners in the contest had been Acre Hill, Fondmort, Captain Conan, Altior and Jonbon.
Henderson was encouraged by the display, noting Lulamba’s strong attitude and natural pace. He explained that the horse had remained lightly raced, with only three hurdle runs the previous season before switching to chasing. The trainer added that the four-year-old had enjoyed his daily routine and had thrived with the allowance given to younger chasers. While the Arkle Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival was the likely long-term aim, Henderson had not yet confirmed the next race.
He also shared that Sir Gino, owned by the same connections and off the track for almost a year, was expected to head to the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park on Boxing Day for his seasonal return.
The training partnership of Gary & Josh Moore, along with jockey Caoilin Quinn, continued their strong week with Hurricane Pat’s decisive success in the opening Listed Claremont Novices’ Hurdle. The five-year-old had taken control two out and came home five and a half lengths clear without being asked for an effort.
Josh Moore said the horse had strengthened since the previous season and had shown the benefits of that development. He added that Hurricane Pat had impressed in recent work and had adapted well to conditions. Connections planned to take their time before deciding his next step.
Sunset Marquesa delivered victory in the Mares’ Handicap Hurdle, while Kikijo landed the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle Qualifier. The concluding Handicap Hurdle went to Go Dante, rounding off a notable day of racing at Sandown.
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