The stage is set for a thrilling renewal of the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby, with multiple Grade 1 winners Pic D’Orhy and Protektorat among a high-quality field of ten for Saturday’s £100,000 feature.
For fans, this is more than just another early-season Grade 2 — it’s a meeting of champions with stories still being written. Protektorat, trained by Dan Skelton and co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, has proven himself a warrior of consistency, from his 2022 Chase triumph at Haydock to his sparkling success in the 2024 Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham. His Wetherby bid marks another step in an illustrious career that continues to excite racing followers across Britain.
Meanwhile, Pic D’Orhy could be venturing into new territory, stepping up to three miles for the first time. Having captured back-to-back victories in the G1 Ascot Chase, trainer Paul Nicholls now eyes the chance to equal Nigel Twiston-Davies’ record of six Charlie Hall Chase wins — a milestone that underscores the depth of his staying stars.
Hewick’s heart and hunger return for Hanlon
Across the Irish Sea, one of racing’s most endearing figures, Hewick, is also primed for Wetherby. The ten-year-old globetrotter, trained by Shark Hanlon, already boasts a CV that reads like a travelogue of triumph — from the Galway Plate to the Gold Cup, and even the Grand National Hurdle in the USA.
Hanlon said with quiet optimism:
“Looking at the weather forecast, I’d say I’m 90 per cent sure Hewick will travel over for the Charlie Hall Chase. He’s come out of Thurles in great form — did everything on the bridle and jumped brilliantly. It’s a lovely way to start his season.”
The County Carlow trainer hinted that Hewick’s campaign could include another tilt at the King George VI Chase, while keeping one eye on the Stayers’ Hurdle. “We’ll see how this weekend goes before deciding his next targets,” Hanlon added.
Last year’s hero eyes repeat; strong Irish depth
Local hopes rest with The Real Whacker, last year’s victor, who aims to become the first back-to-back winner since See More Business in 2000. Ireland’s Gordon Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud strengthen the visiting team with Croke Park, a dual Grade 1-winning novice, and Stellar Story, runner-up in the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase.
Venetia Williams’ progressive Djelo, twice successful in Grade 2 company including when defeating Protektorat at Huntingdon, adds further intrigue. The entries are rounded out by Hang In There, Ga Law, and Sam Brown, ensuring a deeply competitive renewal.
Charlie Hall Chase – Latest Prices:
Protektorat (9/4), Djelo (5/2), Pic D’Orhy (10/3), Hewick (7/1), Croke Park (10/1), Stellar Story/The Real Whacker (12/1), Hang In There (14/1), Ga Law (16/1), Sam Brown (25/1).
Wetherby weekend promises top-class entertainment
Beyond the main event, Saturday’s supporting card features the G2 Hurdle, where Potters Charm, unbeaten in his first four hurdle starts for Nigel and Willy Twiston-Davies, renews rivalry with Strong Leader (Olly Murphy) and Doddiethegreat (Nicky Henderson).
The two-day Charlie Hall Meeting begins Friday, October 31, headlined by the Boost At Handicap Chase and Paul Ferguson’s Jumpers To Follow Wensleydale Juvenile Hurdle.
Wetherby’s Clerk of the Course Jonjo Sanderson reported:
“We’re delighted with the quality of entries. The going is currently good, and though some rain is forecast, we’re confident conditions will hold nicely for two excellent days of racing.”
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