As Wednesday afternoon settles over Cambridgeshire, all eyes turn to Huntingdon Racecards 19 February where a competitive seven-race National Hunt card promises precision jumping, tactical battles and a true test of stamina. The action begins at 1:06pm and runs through to 4:36pm, with over £63,000 in prize money on offer. From sharp novice chases to demanding staying contests, the Irish influence is strong throughout the afternoon and so is the quality.
The opener at 1:06pm, Race 1, the IT Pays To Buy Irish Novices’ Handicap Steeple Chase, may feature just three runners, but the contest carries serious competitive weight. Run over 2m 171y and worth £10,500, it sets the tone for an afternoon built on tactical precision where every fence matters.
Secret des Dieux (FR), partnered by Sean Bowen for James Owen, could look to seize control early and dictate the tempo. Epinephrine (FR), representing Venetia Williams under Charlie Deutsch, brings proven chasing strength and the ability to mount a strong late challenge. Hypotenus (GB), with Taylor Fisher aboard for Joe Tickle, completes the trio and in such a compact field, patience and perfect timing could prove decisive.
Race 2 at 1:41pm raises the intensity. The ITM at Huntingdon Maiden Hurdle sees a lively field of twelve tackle 2m 98y for £10,000. As a Class 4 maiden, it provides a valuable opportunity for emerging talent to step forward. Expect a stronger gallop, tighter positioning and a compelling run to the line as young hurdlers test both pace and composure.
At 2:16pm, Race 3 places greater emphasis on stamina in the Think Thoroughbred, Think Ireland Handicap Steeple Chase. Six runners face 2m 4f 41y in this Class 5 contest worth £8,500. The extended distance ensures fluent jumping and measured energy distribution will be critical, especially in the closing stages when fatigue meets unforgiving fences.
Race 4 at 2:51pm adds depth and intrigue. The Visit Irish Bloodstock Sales with ITM EBF Mares’ National Hunt Maiden Hurdle brings together eleven mares over 2m 5f 101y. This Class 4 contest could highlight future staying prospects, as endurance, balance and late acceleration shape the outcome.
The competitive theme continues at 3:26pm with Race 5, the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle. Eleven runners line up over 2m 98y for £7,000, and with closely matched ratings, this could develop into one of the closest finishes of the day. Tactical awareness and well-judged rides will be crucial.
At 4:01pm, Race 6, the Experience Irish Racing with ITM Mares’ Novices’ Limited Handicap Hurdle, sees eight runners tackle 2m 4f 93y for £7,650. The intermediate trip demands a delicate balance between conserving energy and sustaining rhythm, especially as the tempo lifts turning for home.
The finale at 4:36pm, Race 7, ensures the meeting concludes with a true staying spectacle. The Travel Incentive for British Buyers Handicap Steeple Chase stretches over 3m 2y, testing resilience and clean jumping in equal measure. Five runners face this Class 4 challenge worth £9,750, where grit, stamina and flawless fencing will define the result.
From a tactical three-runner duel to a stamina-testing closer, the 19 February card at Huntingdon builds in intensity and intrigue. With Irish-backed contests adding depth and character, the afternoon promises competitive racing, technical precision and compelling narratives from first fence to final stride.
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