Navan Races 2025: National Hunt Opener Preview

Horses jumping hurdles at Navan Racecourse during the National Hunt season opener
By | 20 Sep 2025 | Mumbai

The wait is finally over as the National Hunt season bursts back into action at Navan Racecourse, Ireland on September 20. Saturday’s eight-race card has everything – three maiden hurdles, competitive handicaps, big, bold jumping over fences, and a lively flat finale to end the afternoon. Gates open at 12:00pm with the first race at 1:25pm and the last at 5:30pm. It’s not just about the racing – enjoy live music, entertainment, and the buzz of the crowd as you soak in one of Ireland’s most loved racecourses.

Race 1: Maiden Hurdle (1:25pm, 1m7f165y)

The season starts with a maiden hurdle that will set the tone for the afternoon. 4-yr-olds and ups like FRIARY ROAD, GOD HELP ME and HARPY EAGLE look likely to go forward early, while ROYAL APPROVAL, TOUCH THE MOON and WONDERWALK could come alive in the closing stages. Expect a tight finish to get the crowd roaring right from the start. Winner’s gain: €7,080

Race 2: SIS, Supporting Irish Racing Handicap Hurdle (2:00pm, 1m7f165y)

This race offers an early test for those looking to climb the ranks. WHIMSY, IN FOR THE NIGHT and FAITHFUL FOLLOWER should be prominent throughout, while FIREBRAND, COMPLETE FICTION and SPICK AND SPAN could pounce if the leaders tire. A sharp finish should keep the energy high before the next big test. Winner’s gain: €8,555

Race 3: Bar One Racing Maiden Hurdle (2:35pm, 2m3f)

Another maiden hurdle gives rising stars the chance to shine. ACCUSTOMED, I FEEL FINE and LION OF THE DESERT  will be aiming to impress with a clean round, but SHING SHANG LILY, MIDDLETHIRD MARVEL and KEEP IT TOGETHER could make things interesting if the ground plays to their strengths. This race should have the crowd on edge as they look for a future star. Winner’s gain: €7,080

Race 4: Balreask Bar, Restaurant & Guest Accommodation Handicap Hurdle (Div I) (3:10pm, 2m3f)

Mid-card action heats up with this fiercely contested handicap. Horses aged 4 and up like VROOMVROOMBOO, WHITEWINEWEDNESDAY and HEAD FOR HOME will want to dictate terms early, while GLAOINN AN AIRGEAD, THE BORDER BOY and FEAST could come charging late to spoil the party. It’s one of those races that might just deliver a surprise. Winner’s gain: €5,900

Race 5: Balreask Bar, Restaurant & Guest Accommodation Handicap Hurdle (Div II) (3:45pm, 2m3f)

The fences come into play in a big way here, with the field set for an attacking ride. FREMANTLE DOCTOR, ANSWERING and GET IT RIGHT may be the one to watch over the bigger obstacles, but GREAT RAINBOW, SPANISH MAID and ANOTHER CHALLENGE could capitalise if mistakes are made. The crowd will love this test of jumping. Winner’s gain: €5,900

Race 6: Meath Farm Machinery Maiden Hurdle (4:20pm, 2m5f)

Our third maiden hurdle of the day could be one of the most revealing. BECTIVE THUNDER, CUT THE ROPE and ECLIPSE CHASER look to have the class edge, yet LITTLELADYINGREEN, BETHNGRACIESCHANCE and OPEN SECRET might find improvement when it counts. This is a contest where reputations can be made. Winner’s gain: €7,080

Race 7: Start Your Racing TV Free Trial Now Ladies Handicap Hurdle (4:55pm, 2m5f)

This staying event will demand grit and determination. AUREA FORTUNA, AHEAD OF THE POSSE and CLONBURY BRIDGE should relish the distance, while TECHNOLOGY, CAPTAIN PORRIDGE and THEMANINTHEBOOTS may be a danger if the pace collapses late. A proper test of heart and staying power awaits. Winner’s gain: €6,785

Race 8: Bar One Racing INH Flat Race (5:30pm, 1m7f165y)

We round off the afternoon with a flat contest that offers a change of tempo. 4-yr-olds like ADE BOY, HIGHLANDER ADDICT and MOON MISSION could be quick from the gates, but MISS GUIRY, APPLES JANE and SPINANS Hill may have the final say with a strong finish. A fitting way to bring the curtain down on an action-packed card. Winner’s gain: €5,900

Navan once again delivers a race day that blends sporting drama with a true festival feel. From thrilling maiden hurdles to the spectacle of the chases and a crowd-lifting flat finale, the afternoon promises moments to remember. As the National Hunt season gathers pace, today’s winners may be the names we’ll be cheering through the winter – and what better place to start the story than Navan.

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